Signet's Education Blog
January 13, 2020
High School Self-AssessmentAs summer approaches, now is a good time to revisit your goals and assess your progress. Let's get started! Read More
April 1, 2019
Managing Screen Time for a Better Real World ExperienceA TED Talk from Adam Alter offers advice on how students can set healthy boundaries around screen time. Read More
February 18, 2019
college admissions Common Myths About College AdmissionsUncover the truth about the most common college admissions myths. Read more
February 11, 2019
college admissions Voluntourism and the Personal StatementThis post examines the phenomenon of "voluntourism" and whether it can help or harm a student's college applications. Read more
December 3, 2018
College Should You Apply Early Decision?A breakdown of the factors that determine whether students should apply early decision to colleges. Read more
November 19, 2018
High Schoolers School Reports: What They Are and Why They MatterLearn about the school report, its role in the college application process, and how admissions officers use the school report in college admissions. Read more
November 12, 2018
Students Interview with a Dean: How Kids Can Avoid BurnoutLearn about the underlying causes of stress in high school and how students can manage stress effectively. Read more
September 9, 2018
Test Prep PSAT Prep for SophomoresHow much should sophomores be doing to prepare for the PSAT? In this post, we’ll look at common questions about PSAT preparation and explain why we don’t recommend doing a whole lot to get ready for this test. Read more
August 13, 2018
Parents Your Pre-College ChecklistBeing prepared to thrive in college is about more than just academics. That’s why we’ve created a list of the most important life skills you should have before entering college. Read more
April 30, 2018
Personal Statement The College Application EssayOur series of interviews with admissions consultants and admissions officers about different parts of the college application is designed to illuminate how each component fits into the whole. This post is an in-depth discussion about what makes a good essay, how it’s evaluated by admissions officers, and much more. Read more
April 23, 2018
Admissions Consulting What You Should Know About Counselor and Teacher RecommendationsThis installment of our series of interviews with admissions officers is all about recommendations. Read more
April 9, 2018
Admissions Consulting Shaping Your College Application NarrativeIn this blog post, a former admissions officer gives some tips on how to write your “narrative” for your college application. Read more
March 27, 2018
Admissions Consulting A Checklist for Graduating SeniorsSeniors: This whole college thing is about to get real. In the swirl of emotion that surrounds the end of high school and the start of college, it’s easy to forget the specific things that will make the transition to college go a lot more smoothly. That’s why we’ve provided a checklist to help you stay on track during these last few months of senior year. Read more
March 13, 2018
High Schoolers Spring Semester Junior Year: The College Process BeginsSpring Semester Junior Year: The College Process Begins Read more
March 5, 2018
The Signet Way The Signet Method for Studying for FinalsThe Signet Method for Studying for Finals Read more
February 26, 2018
Admissions Consulting Do You Need a Private College Counselor?A common rumor that starts circulating in high school is that students need to work with a private counselor to get into the college of their choice. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the differences between school counselors and private counselors in order to dispel a few myths and clear up a few facts along the way. Read more
February 20, 2018
Admissions Consulting "Fit" from an Admissions Officer's Perspective“Fit” is a buzzword that we hear a lot from college admissions officers and counselors, but sometimes it’s given lip service rather than the actual attention it deserves. In this blog post, a former admissions officer and college counselor shares her perspective. Read more
February 5, 2018
Admissions Consulting How to Have the College Major ConversationParents often ask how they can counsel students to pursue something they’re interested in, but also keep an eye on where that’s leading them in their post-college life. Learn how to have this conversation, from a college counselor’s perspective. Read more
January 30, 2018
Admissions Consulting How to Start the College Visit ProcessHere at Signet, we believe that a little planning and foresight can make the mysteries of the college admissions process much less, well, mysterious. In this blog post, we’re going to demystify one piece of this process: the college visit. Read more
January 22, 2018
Admissions Consulting Interview with a College Counselor: The Admissions ProcessRead our interview with Signet consultant and director of college counseling, Blair Munhofen, to learn the best ways to approach the college admissions process. Read more
January 15, 2018
Test Prep Your AP Exam Study PlanA major mistake we often see students make is assuming that their AP class will prepare them fully for the exam. While many teachers do an excellent job of preparing their students, doing well in an AP class is no guarantee that you’ll get a 4 or 5 on the AP exam. Read on to learn hour tips for acing your AP exams. Read more
January 9, 2018
Admissions Consulting College Visits: How Early is Too Early?For some students, college visits may be valuable earlier in their high school careers. However, we don’t recommend this for every student. Read on to learn what types of students can benefit from early college visits. Read more
December 18, 2017
The Signet Way Tips and Tools to Avoid the High School WhirlpoolThe high school whirlpool is one of the biggest dangers high schooler face. What do we mean by that? Briefly, the whirlpool means getting sucked into pursuing a high school education that’s focused on the expectations of others rather than what is best for you and your family. Read on to learn more about what it means and how to avoid getting sucked in. Read more
December 13, 2017
SAT 8-Week SAT or ACT Study PlanWaited until the last minute (or the last 2 months), and now you're stressing? Here's a plan to help you conquer the SAT or ACT with just 8 weeks of prep. Read more
November 28, 2017
The Signet Way Career Exploration Tools for High SchoolersIn the latter half of senior year and over the summer, students are under less academic pressure but still have access to a lot of people and resources. It’s a perfect time for career exploration that maintains a sense of freedom and ease, and a great way to gain some clarity before you become a freshman all over again! Read more
November 20, 2017
Admissions Consulting Interview with an Admissions Officer: Why Fit Matters So MuchBy now, you’ve probably heard the term “fit” in reference to applying to college. Parents often see it as a euphemism for “going to a school that no one has ever heard of.” Many parents agree to finding a “best fit” college when we discuss it, but they end up with a list of all Ivy League colleges and one state school. That’s not usually a sign of understanding what we mean by “fit.” In this blog post, we interview a former college admissions officer to discuss what “fit” really means, and its value and place in the college admissions process. Read more
November 17, 2017
Test Prep Should You Take SAT STs As a Sophomore?Sophomore year is the first time most students will need to think about standardized testing. Here are our recommendations for when to start testing for the SAT Subject Tests. Read more
November 6, 2017
High Schoolers Does Your High School Plan Set You Up for College Success?What does it take to be a successful college candidate? Read more
October 17, 2017
High Schoolers Your Essential Guide to Junior YearWe give you an overview of your entire junior year of high school, including a month-by-month checklist. Let's get productive! Read more
October 10, 2017
High Schoolers A High School Road Map for FreshmenYou wouldn’t drive across the country without a map. Why would you head toward your future without one? Read more
October 3, 2017
High Schoolers Why Seeking Mentorship in High School is ImportantWe offer a brief overview of some of the things you should consider when approaching a mentor relationship. Read more
September 25, 2017
High Schoolers The Essential Guide to Senior YearWe made a guide for high school seniors. Follow our month-by-month timeline to stay on track! Read more
September 13, 2017
Time Management Essential Study Skills to Master in Junior YearRead on to learn Signets' top three study skills to master in high school junior year. Read more
September 7, 2017
High Schoolers Five Time Management Tips for SophomoresGet organized in high school. Read more
August 21, 2017
Time Management Organizational Skills for Ninth GradeMaster these four components, and you'll be on your way to becoming an organizational whiz! Read more
August 18, 2017
Parents 10 Tips for Student Well-beingSummer break is almost over. Read our tips to start the school year off right! Read more
August 4, 2017
High Schoolers Why Choosing Challenging Classes MattersNot all courses are created equal! Learn how to choose your classes in high school. Read more
June 29, 2017
High Schoolers Why End-of-School-Year Reflection is ImportantWhat have you learned about yourself this past academic year? Read more
May 22, 2017
Parents Your Essential Pre-College Reading ListThe holiday weekend is approaching. Here's a reading list to help with the transition to college! Read more
May 9, 2017
SAT Subject Tests Should High School Freshmen Take SAT Subject Tests?Read on to learn Signet's recommendations for 9th graders. Read more
May 30, 2016
Extracurriculars Last Minute Summer PlansMake the most out of your summer by pursuing your interests! Read more
May 9, 2016
High Schoolers How To Get Through the Mid-Semester SlumpHere are 4 tips to keep you motivated! Read more
May 2, 2016
Parents A Brief Guide to Building Strong Student-Teacher RelationshipsA few of these simple suggestions will help you develop better relationships with your teachers. Read more
March 28, 2016
High Schoolers Senior Year: How to Stay Focused and Have FunFind your balance during times of change. Read more
March 14, 2016
Time Management Five Time-Management Tips for SophomoresEffective ways to manage your time. Read more
March 4, 2016
Study Tips Should I ask my Teacher for Extra Help?Use this quick guide to determine if you should approach your teacher for extra help. Read more
March 1, 2016
High Schoolers The Right Way to Discuss GradesDiscussing a bad grade with your teacher can be tricky. Learn about the right way and time to approach the subject. Read more
February 16, 2016
Test Prep Freshman Year Study Skills: Where Are You Stuck?Struggling with study skills? Figure out where you're stuck. Read more
January 21, 2016
Admissions Sophomore Year - College Admissions PlanIf you're a high school sophomore, it's time to start making a college admissions plan! Let us show you how... Read more
January 15, 2016
SAT Freshman Year and Standardized TestingA simple standardized testing guide for high school freshman. Read more
January 12, 2016
Admissions Don't Let College Anxiety Ruin Your Life!Your college applications are in! Take a deep breath and don't let the anxiety of waiting ruin your life! Read more
December 24, 2015
Admissions Seniors Hearing Back on Early Apps: Last-Minute TipsLast-Minute Tips for dealing with what you heard from your early admissions applications. Read more
December 24, 2015
High Schoolers What do Your PSAT Scores Mean?Scores for the PSAT are in! Learn more about what they mean and how to use them as a tool for success. Read more
December 14, 2015
Admissions The Coalition Application: What it is, and what it means for youAn introduction to the Coalition Application and what it means for college applicants. Read more
October 23, 2015
SAT FAQ's for the New SATThe SAT has been redesigned this year. Find your FAQ's about the changes here. Read more
October 16, 2015
Time Management Time Management Tools for Parents of Sophomores, Part 2Get the tools to keep your sophomore on task with schoolwork and activities. Read more
October 16, 2015
Time Management Time Management Tools for Parents of Sophomores, Part 1Get the tools to keep your sophomore on task with schoolwork and activities. Read more
October 16, 2015
Extracurriculars Leadership Development in Your Sophomore YearBuilding leadership opportunities for you college applications start as early as sophomore year. Read more
October 13, 2015
Test Prep The New PSATThe PSAT/SAT are changing in 2015. Find out what to expect here. Read more
October 13, 2015
Test Prep Last Minute PSAT Study TipsWaited until the last minute to review for the PSAT? No problem! Here's what to do... Read more
October 13, 2015
ACT Preparing for the ACT Reading SectionHow to conquer the ACT Reading section with confidence! Read more
October 1, 2015
Admissions Last Minute Early App Help for SeniorsFallen behind on your Early Decision applications? Here's how to catch up. Read more
September 25, 2015
SAT An Intro for Freshman to the rPSATHere's what to expect as a Freshman preparing for the rPSAT exam. Read more
September 22, 2015
Students Extracurriculars in your Sophomore YearFind out why joining extracurriculars as early as your sophomore year is important to your college application. Read more
September 22, 2015
Students Extracurriculars, Leadership and the Junior YearLearn why getting involved in extracurriculars in your junior year is so important to the college admissions process. Read more
September 14, 2015
Students How to Turn Lessons from Freshman Year into a Successful Sophomore YearFreshman year is hard, but sophomore year doesn't have to be. Use what you learned last year to make this year successful. Read more
August 13, 2015
Admissions Tips for Writing an Exceptional Personal StatementThree practical tips for writing an exceptional college personal statement Read more
August 13, 2015
Just for Fun Five Movies Every High Schooler Should SeeFive, classic movies that every high school will identify with. Read more
July 8, 2015
Students You Know You're a High School Junior if:24 Tell-tale Signs that you are a Junior in High School Read more
July 6, 2015
Students Congratulations High School Seniors!!You've made it through High School! Here are our best tips for making the best of College! Read more
April 7, 2014
Admissions Consulting What to Do After You ApplyWhat high school seniors should do after college apps have been submitted. Read more
March 28, 2014
Admissions Consulting How to Differentiate Yourself from Other Top ApplicantsBeyond academics, how can you set yourself apart in competitive college admissions? Read more
March 17, 2014
Admissions Consulting You've Been Accepted to CollegeYour hard work has paid off and you have multiple colleges to choose from—congratulations! But, how do you choose the right one for you? Read more
March 10, 2014
Subject Tutoring When to Start Studying for FinalsIf you didn't wait until the last second, but also haven't been totally on top of your game since day one, we have tips for you. Read more
March 6, 2014
SAT Changes to the SATA guideline to the changes to the SAT that were released March 5, 2014. Read more
February 26, 2014
Admissions Consulting What to Expect at Your Harvard InterviewAn alumni interviewer recalls her own Harvard interview and specifies what she looks for now in applicants. Read more
February 24, 2014
Admissions Consulting What To Wear To A College InterviewHow to dress for success (from an interviewer who has seen it all). Read more
February 20, 2014
Parents Summer at Brown UniversityOne student's experience with Brown's pre-college summer program. Read more
February 3, 2014
Subject Tutoring Foreign Language Learning TipsOur resident polyglot shares her tips for learning foreign languages. Read more
January 28, 2014
Subject Tutoring Q&A with a Math TutorIt's cliche, but practice does make perfect (according to this math tutor). Read more
January 27, 2014
Admissions Consulting How to Talk to College Admissions OfficersWhile admissions officers may seem intimidating, they actually do want to help you. Read more
January 17, 2014
SAT What Are SAT Subject Tests?The answers to many frequently asked questions about SAT Subject Tests. Read more
January 13, 2014
Admissions Consulting Basic Guide to the FAFSAFirst time filling out the FAFSA? Here's the information you need to have before getting started, as well as common rookie mistakes (and how to avoid them). Read more
January 8, 2014
Admissions Consulting Rejected From Your Dream School? It's Okay.It might be hard to believe right now, but being rejected from your "dream school" does not mean you are destined to fail. These Signet tutors are proof. Read more
December 13, 2013
Admissions Consulting Q&A with a Boston Latin School GraduateFind out what it's like to attend the exclusive Boston Latin School from a former student. Read more
December 2, 2013
Test Prep How to Teach to the Test (in a Good Way)Part one of a three-part series on incorporating test preparation into the classroom. Read more
November 27, 2013
Subject Tutoring Q&A with a Chemistry TutorWhen it comes to chemistry, expert feels like an understatement in describing Austin. Read more
November 21, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Prepare for College InterviewsA college interview is your chance to bridge the gap between your written application and the people who hold the key to your dream school. Read more
November 19, 2013
Admissions Consulting Q&A with a Yale GraduateEver wondered what it's like to go to Yale? Well, we went ahead and found out for you. Read more
November 12, 2013
Subject Tutoring Study Tips for HistoryQuick tips for successfully studying history, from one of the biggest history buffs we know. Read more
November 5, 2013
Subject Tutoring 5 Tips For Acing Multiple MidtermsHow to deal when you don't have the option of taking it one test at a time. Read more
October 30, 2013
Admissions Consulting Personal Statement TipsWorried about what admissions officers are looking for in your personal statement? Wonder no more — we asked a former admissions officer to help you get started. Read more