Signet's Education Blog
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October 19, 2020
Is Your Student in for an October Surprise?Midterms are on the horizon, but there’s still time to make sure your student’s semester stays on course. Read More
February 24, 2020
How Do You Know if You Need a Tutor?Learn whether support from a tutor can improve your high school performance and experience. Read More
September 16, 2019
Students Is it Time to Reconsider Social Media?Is it possible to live without social media? Read more
May 13, 2019
College Establishing an Exercise Routine in CollegeRegular exercise in college can lead to better health and improved academic performance. Read more
April 15, 2019
Business School B-School Admissions Committee Evaluation AreasStudents need to be strong in three key areas on their business school applications. Read more
April 1, 2019
The Signet Way 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
March 18, 2019
Admissions What to Do with Early Application Decisions?Perspectives on handling acceptance, denial, or deferral to schools where a student applied early. Read more
February 18, 2019
college admissions Common Myths About College AdmissionsUncover the truth about the most common college admissions myths. Read more
February 4, 2019
Admissions Q&A with a Med School ConsultantOne of Signet's medical school advisors shares his personal experience with med school. Read more
January 28, 2019
College What is College for, Anyway?Explore different perspectives on the purpose of a college education and how it relates to career choice. Read more
January 21, 2019
College College Types Interview Series: Ivy League SchoolThe fifth and final interview in Signet's series on different types of colleges focuses on Ivy League schools. Read more
January 7, 2019
College College Types Interview Series: Technical InstitutionThe fourth in Signet's interview series on different types of colleges focuses on technical institutions. Read more
December 24, 2018
College College Types Interview Series: Private Research UniversityThe third in Signet's interview series on different types of colleges focuses on large private research universities. Read more
December 17, 2018
College The Value of Alumni References on College ApplicationsDo high-profile recommendation letters help or harm a student's college application? Read more
December 10, 2018
College College Types Interview Series: Private Liberal Arts CollegeThe second post in our series on different types of colleges focuses on the undergraduate experience at a private liberal arts college. Read more
November 26, 2018
College College Types Interview Series: Large Public UniversityIn this five-part interview series, college alums share their experiences at different types of schools. 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
October 22, 2018
Students The Happy B StudentStudents struggling with perfectionism and the need to get Straight As will benefit from these tips on learning to be a "Happy B Student." Read more
October 8, 2018
College Productive Career Conversations in Early High SchoolGuest author Jo Leonard, college admissions consultant and career coach, sheds some light on tackling the college major and career conversation in the first two years of high school. Read more
April 5, 2018
Parents Mental Health Check-InWhen is the last time you had a discussion with your peers and family about mental health? Read more
March 21, 2018
Time Management What is the Pomodoro Technique?Over the years, we’ve seen that when students study, they often lose focus, getting overwhelmed by distractions (smartphone, friends) or going down a rabbit hole and spending way too much time on a single topic. In order to combat loss of focus and increase students’ productivity, we highly recommend using the Pomodoro Technique. Read on to learn how to use this technique. 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
March 31, 2017
Admissions Consulting Personal Statement Essay PromptsThe Common Application provides five prompts for your personal essay. Here are tips to get started. 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
Students Meeting the Challenges of Your Transition to CollegeThe transition to college is exciting, but also has some challenges. Learn how to overcome them here. 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
December 15, 2014
Test Prep PSAT Scores Have Been Released! Now What?What’s the PSAT good for anyway? Read more
November 20, 2014
Admissions C Students and the College ProcessYes, C students can get into their dream colleges! But not all C students are the same. Here’s how to navigate the application process with a late bloomer, underachiever, or other kind of C student. Read more
May 27, 2014
Admissions Consulting How to Prepare for an MA or PhD ProgramWhether you’re still in school or considering going back, read about what you can do to get ready. Read more
May 23, 2014
Parents VoluntourismHow to benefit from your experience as a volunteer tourist. Read more
May 19, 2014
Parents The Right Way to Ask Your Teachers for HelpWe're passing on some golden advice on how to ask for help from your teachers. Read more
May 12, 2014
Admissions Consulting How to Plan a College VisitCollege visits are important! Here's how you can make them affordable and productive. Read more
May 9, 2014
Parents This Is Your Brain on SummerYou need to keep your brain sharp this summer—here's how. Read more
April 22, 2014
SAT Update on the New SAT: MathThe SAT is changing in 2016—what does this mean for you? In Part 3 of this series, learn about how Math will be tested. Read more
April 22, 2014
SAT Update on the New SAT: Evidence-based ReadingThe SAT is changing in 2016—are you ready? In Part 1 of this series, learn about how Evidence-based Reading will be tested. Read more
April 21, 2014
Admissions Refining Your College ListWondering where to apply? Read on for how to narrow your list. 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
April 3, 2014
Test Prep The New MCAT 2015Upcoming changes to the MCAT and how to prepare accordingly. Read more
April 1, 2014
GRE What Are the GRE Subject Tests?GRE subject test basics: who should take one and how taking one can boost your chance of being accepted. 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 25, 2014
Subject Tutoring Study Tips for LiteratureTips for reading a text effectively, from a Comparative Literature PhD candidate. Read more
March 21, 2014
Test Prep Q&A with an MCAT StudentSarah tells us about her experience with the MCAT—and how prep classes left her feeling as if she hadn't given it her all. 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 14, 2014
Subject Tutoring "My Teacher Doesn't Like Me"Many students complain that their poor academic performance is a result of their teacher disliking them. We investigated. 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 7, 2014
Students The Importance of Exercise in CollegeWhy every college student must exercise. 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
January 6, 2014
GMAT How Long Does GMAT Prep Take?Everything you need to know to create your ideal individualized GMAT study plan. Read more
December 20, 2013
Just for Fun How to Relax over Winter BreakA personal note from our stressed out SAT and Admissions Coordinator Read more
December 18, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Change Your MajorThe entire Signet team went to college confident in the major we had selected, but half of us ended up changing our course of study. 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 5, 2013
Admissions Consulting Do Colleges Google Applicants?Surprising information about what admissions officers look for (or don't look for)—straight from the admissions office. 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 15, 2013
Test Prep Where to Find SAT Diagnostic TestsAre you looking for SAT practice tests? You can find them in books and all over the web, but be warned: not all practice tests are created equal. Read more
November 13, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Apply for a FellowshipFellowship applications require high-achieving students to navigate detailed and specific instructions in the hopes of receiving substantial opportunity, funds, and recognition. In the process, there isn't any room for error. 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 6, 2013
Parents How to Manage Test AnxietyProven strategies for conquering your academic fears. 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
November 1, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Apply to Graduate SchoolGrad school applications aren't like any you've seen before. 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
October 24, 2013
Parents How We Pair Clients and TutorsWhat is it that makes Signet unlike any other tutoring company? Read more
October 18, 2013
SAT Quick Tips: SAT WritingA basic guideline to the structure of the SAT I Writing Section and what you need to know to study efficiently. Read more
October 16, 2013
Parents How to Talk to a Teacher about a GradeThe best way to approach a teacher about an unfair grade. Read more
October 10, 2013
Subject Tutoring How to Study for MidtermsOne of the best kept secrets of great students is that they don’t study for midterms the way everyone else does. Read more
October 4, 2013
Admissions Consulting Medical School Interview TipsThree little-known tips to help you nail your medical school interview. Read more
September 27, 2013
Admissions Consulting Q&A with a Harvard GraduateWant to know what it's like to be a Harvard student? We spoke with a 2005 Harvard grad, our own CEO, to get his first-hand account. Read more
September 25, 2013
Admissions Consulting Common App Supplement QuestionsAnd how you can best answer them. Read more
September 24, 2013
Graduate School How to Use Online Educational ToolsFree online classes are a hot topic in education. Here's how to use them to your advantage! Read more
September 24, 2013
Parents How to Challenge Your StudentHelpful hints for turning an interest into a useful talent and a passion. Read more
September 24, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Choose an AdvisorHoping to pursue an MA or PhD in an academic field? You need to read this first! Read more
September 16, 2013
ACT Video Q&A with an ACT TutorRich, an ACT tutor who has coached multiple students to a perfect ACT score, shares some advice. Read more
September 12, 2013
Subject Tutoring Study Tips for AlgebraWe know algebra can be difficult, so we want to share some advice on how to make it easier! From learning fundamentals to being more efficient, there are lots of steps you can take to bring up your algebra game. Read more
September 9, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Talk to ProfessorsIn the final installment of this three-part series on adjusting to college, Olivia advises future and current students on how to get the most out of relationships with professors. Read more
September 9, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Make Friends in CollegeOlivia's second post in this three-part series on adjusting to college as a freshman details how she learned to adapt socially in the new college environment. Read more
September 6, 2013
Admissions Consulting Should You Apply Early?In this post, I sit down with a former admissions officer from Stanford University to cover the basics of early applications. Read on to learn what they are and whether you should submit one. Read more
August 26, 2013
Admissions Consulting Q&A with a Northeastern GraduateEver wondered what it's like to be a student at Northeastern University in Boston, MA? We spoke with Katie, a 2011 graduate, to learn more. Read more
August 23, 2013
Admissions Consulting When to Begin College ApplicationsWhen should you start working on your college applications? Short answer: NOW! No matter what grade you're currently in, it’s never too early to begin preparing your applications. Read more
August 22, 2013
SAT When to Start SAT or ACT PreparationHow to avoid cramming for important exams and take tests with confidence. Read more
August 18, 2013
SAT SAT Critical Reading TipsHere are a few major tips to approach the critical reading section. Read more
August 12, 2013
Test Prep When Should I Take the LSAT?So you think you want to go to law school? One of the first things you’ll need to do is take the LSAT. Read more
August 12, 2013
Parents How to Choose a Tutoring CompanyOnce you’ve decided that you need a tutor, coach, or admissions consultant, you'll have many options to choose from. Here are some things to consider as you’re shopping around. Read more
August 9, 2013
Learning Differences What Is Academic Coaching?How to cure the constant procrastinator, the student performing below their potential, or the bored student - and more! Read more
August 9, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Turn Your Summer into a Personal StatementEven if you spent your summer babysitting. Read more
August 9, 2013
Admissions Consulting Basic Guide to the Common AppLet’s get started filling out the basic information on your Common Application. Read more
August 7, 2013
Admissions Consulting Your Strongest Possible College AppA guide to putting together your strongest possible college application. Read more
August 7, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Visit a College CampusA successful college visit will leave you with a much better sense of whether the school is a good fit for you. Some general guidelines will help you make the most of your visit. Read more
August 1, 2013
High School 10 Things Top High Schoolers KnowThe top ten skills we see in successful high schoolers. Read more
August 1, 2013
High School How to Manage Your Time as a Busy StudentA guide to time management for overwhelmed high school students. Read more
July 25, 2013
Admissions Consulting 4 Misconceptions in College AdmissionsFrom test score percentiles to celebrity recommendations, we're here to guide you. Read more
July 23, 2013
Parents 5 Apps to Boost Your ProductivityOnline study and time management tools to help students. Read more
July 12, 2013
Admissions Consulting What Is the New Common ApplicationThe common app is changing! Find out everything you need to know here. Read more
July 10, 2013
Admissions Consulting The Gap Year ArgumentExploring the value of taking a year off between high school and college. Read more
July 10, 2013
Subject Tutoring How to Use a Semi-ColonOften underused, misused, or simply feared, the semi-colon is a versatile punctuation mark that may be employed in two distinct ways. Read more
July 10, 2013
Students A Guide to Life at HarvardWe tapped into our staff resources to conjure up a list of things they love/loved about Harvard. Enjoy! Read more
July 10, 2013
Just for Fun Do Extracurriculars Matter in College?A former president of the Harvard Lampoon says they do. Read more
July 8, 2013
SAT Time Management for the SATThe SAT is full of challenges, and certainly one of the biggest is managing your time. Read more
July 7, 2013
Subject Tutoring How to Get the Most out of TutoringTips on what to do during your tutoring sessions to help you maximize your tutor’s impact. Read more
July 7, 2013
Subject Tutoring How to Deal with Challenging Subject MatterIn part one of our four-part series on diagnosing your own study habits, we're discussing challenges with the subject matter. Read more
July 7, 2013
Students Where Should You Study?In the last part of this four-part series on diagnosing your own study habits, we discuss your study environment. Read more
July 7, 2013
Students What Is Your Best Study Method?In the third installment of our four-part series on diagnosing your own study habits, we discuss your personal study methods. Read more
July 6, 2013
Test Prep What SAT Score Do You Need for the Ivy League?The answer may surprise you. Read more
July 6, 2013
SAT Differences between the SAT and ACTEven though the SAT and ACT are interchangeable as college entrance exams, the tests are very different in important ways. Here’s what you should know. Read more
July 5, 2013
Subject Tutoring How to Prepare for a Tutoring Session: Before Your SessionWhen it comes to subject tutoring, there’s a lot you can do before, during, and after your tutoring sessions to help you make the absolute most of your engagement. Read more
July 1, 2013
Subject Tutoring What to Do after a Tutoring SessionThere’s a lot you can do before, during, and after your tutoring sessions to help you extract the most possible value from your engagement with a Signet tutor. Read more
June 28, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Write a Personal StatementTo write a stellar college application essay, you have to keep in mind that it serves many functions to an admissions committee. Click through for the top three functions. Read more
June 28, 2013
Admissions Consulting College Admissions: What Really MattersOur former admissions officers agree that your college application should always reflect these three pointers. Read more
June 1, 2013
Admissions Consulting Case Study: Personal StatementHow a Signet student crafted a successful personal statement with the help of an admissions consultant. Read more
June 1, 2013
Admissions Consulting How to Get a Recommendation LetterWhile you don’t want to be insincere or shady about the process of asking for recommendations, thinking carefully about what recommendations will help your application and how to ask for them can go a long way. Read more
June 1, 2013
Test Prep 3 Reasons You Didn't Score a 1600Common challenges to achieving your highest SAT score. Read more
May 31, 2013
Subject Tutoring Case Study: Student ConfidenceHow using a tutor can build a student's confidence. Read more
May 31, 2013
Parents How to Concentrate EffectivelyA guide to creating the study skills you need to focus. Read more
May 28, 2013
Subject Tutoring Case Study: Gaps in LearningA student's story of overcoming her lack of confidence and reaching a deeper level of academic understanding. Read more
May 27, 2013
Case Study Case Study: Overwhelmed StudentOur experience working with a student who, after years of gliding through school, began struggling. Read more
May 22, 2013
Case Study Case Study: Ineffective Work HabitsA Signet student does all the work, but doesn't see the results. Read more to find out what we did to help her get back on track. Read more
May 20, 2013
Admissions Consulting Where Have Signet Students Been Accepted?A master list of the schools where Signet students have earned acceptance. Read more
May 19, 2013
Subject Tutoring Case Study: Learning Style DifferencesA Signet student's story where a change in teaching style made all of the difference. Read more
May 16, 2013
SAT Should I Take the SAT or ACT?A guide to deciding which exam will best represent your skills. Read more
May 14, 2013
Admissions Consulting What Is a Strong Extracurricular?A guide to choosing strong extracurriculars for college admissions. Read more
May 10, 2013
Admissions Consulting Case Study: International AdmissionsInternational applicants face unique challenges in college admissions. Read more
May 6, 2013
Admissions Consulting Case Study: Med-Scholars ProgramHow one talented student set himself apart. Read more
May 3, 2013
Test Prep Case Study: ISEE preparationHow a Signet tutor coached a sixth grader to admission at a selective private school near Boston. Read more
April 25, 2013
Admissions Consulting How Do You Choose a College?A comprehensive overview of the essential questions to ask yourself when creating a college list. Read more
April 19, 2013
SAT SAT Math: How to Stay FocusedWhat you need to do to score your highest on the math section of the SAT. Read more
April 16, 2013
Test Prep Case Study: SAT PreparationA Signet student improves her SAT score by over 100 points. Read more
April 10, 2013
Subject Tutoring 4 Signs That You Need a TutorIf you can identify with any of these situations, it might be time to call a tutor. Read more
April 1, 2013
Test Prep SAT Math: Problem Solving TipsCreative tips for the math section of the SAT Read more
June 16, 0017
Admissions Consulting Signet Undergraduate Admissions ResultsA master list of colleges and universities that have sent Signet students acceptance letters. Read more
June 16, 0017
Admissions Consulting Signet Graduate Admissions ResultsA comprehensive list of the graduate schools and programs where Signet students have gained acceptance. Read more