A.P. Study Tips, Digital Footprint, and Legacy

SocratesPost is always on the frontlines scouring the news for relevant updates in the college admissions landscape. We look for anything that can help shape our understanding of the latest trends in admissions and help our readers see the direction in which we’re moving.

Questions we explored this week:

  • What is the best way to manage AP tests in busy spring?
  • Do high school students think before posting?
  • What does the new Senate and House bill want to cut?

Make a schedule

A recent article in U.S. News lays out an effective schedule of studying for A.P. exams. In March it suggests to focus on the now and start a cumulative review. In April, it’s time for practice tests and more study, even during spring break. Finally, in May, tie up any loose ends and make time for self-care.

What does this mean? It is important to start early and get ahead of preparation so students and families alike can enjoy those special final months of school stress-free.

Read more here.

At one high school in Palo Alto, 90% do

A recent survey conducted at Palo Alto high school found that before posting on social media, 50% of students consider the consequences, 40.6% sometimes do, while the final 9.6% never do. Many students there are aware that their digital footprint can affect admissions.

What does this mean? It is important to remember that a social media post isn’t going to get someone into their dream school, but it could keep them out of it.

Read more here.

Legacy admissions

A new bill before Congress looks to ban colleges that consider legacy from federal student aid programs, effectively ending the practice. Supporting it are many alumni from prestigious institutions who say they will boycott donations until legacy status is removed from consideration.

What does this mean? While the moves towards more equitable admissions continue, their timeframe remains a ways out, so, whether legacy or not, the status quo today remains largely the same.

Read more here.

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