Spring 2017 Parent Newsletter

From Your University & Career Advancement Counsellors

Dear CIS Parent,

Inside: Spring 2017

Our Spring 2017 University Counselling newsletter arrives on the heels
of a change of administration in Washington DC, a change that might The Myth That Needs to Die:
have some worried as to the potential impact on international student Colleges Are Looking for
willingness to apply to US institutions. Understandably, US Well-Rounded Students
universities are eager to counteract any impression that their schools
might be increasingly intolerant and unsafe. In fact, since the fall FAQs Regarding
election, US institutions are reaching out to university counsellors the
Standardised Tests:
world over to underscore their records for tolerance and safety.

Includes a Recommended
Its unlikely that these soothing eorts have directly reached our CIS Timeline for ACT/SAT
community. In fact, at our recent evening session for Year 12 parents Completion
on US admissions, the first parent question raised the issue of student
safety at US institutions.
Does Size Matter?
Bigger Vs. Smaller Universities:
Speaking in the broadest possible terms, the number of racially fueled
incidents at US institutions since the fall elections have been relatively Which Is Better?
few in number. But, understandably, that may not be enough
reassurance for some. Furthermore, in this period of increased Summer Internships:
tension and uncertainty, merely hoping that the situation doesnt A Few Considerations before
worsen might not be enough to provide comfort.

Making Final Plans

Fortunately, concerned parents and students have resources to better
understand the picture at ground level:
Early Decision and Early
each US institution is required by law to disclose incidents Action Plans:
involving any type of criminal behaviour including hate crimes; Pros and Cons to Applying
This information can be accessed through university websites;
Early
through our alumni network along with other resources,
students can get an accurate and detailed picture of what is
happening at potential schools of interest;
Going Dutch?
finally, you can also be sure that universities are re-assessing The Netherlands Has Much to
and upgrading policies to make sure that all students will feel Oer
safe and accepted. Find out what individual universities are
doing to address the safety issue proactively.
Featured College:

University of Rochester
We remain confident that in our current climate of heightened anxiety,
following these recommendations will provide a more detailed and
reassuring picture of what is actually happening at US universities.
Book Review:

Jessica Laheys The Gift of

As always, please reach out to your CIS University Counsellors Failure
whenever questions on this or any other college-related issues arise.

Regular Feature:

Your CIS University Counsellors

Articles of Interest from
Sow Fun Dawson - sfdawson@cis.edu.hk
Around the Web
Robert Manuseto mansueto@cis.edu.hk

Marc Marier mmarier@cis.edu.hk

Your CIS Career Advancement Counsellors

I learned law so well,

Annie Yung ayung@cis.edu.hk

the day I graduated I sued the
college, won the case, and got
Administrative Assistant
my tuition back.

Brankie Wong bwong@cis.edu.hk

1 Fred Allen (1894 - 1956)

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The Myth of the Well-Rounded College Applicant: Unfounded, Unnecessary

and Unhealthy

The belief that well-rounded applicants will enjoy an advantage in college

admissions to competitive universities continues to be one of the more powerful and
pernicious of admission myths. This belief is without question one of the leading
factors in fueling a generation of students whose academic and activities resumes
may impress on the outside but exact a huge price on the inside.

Overcommitted students who buy into this belief are far likelier to fall prey to anxiety,
stress and worse contributing to a significant world-wide increase in the number of
students suffering from serious mental health disorders. Kids
are paying a very high price for an arms race mentality that says
that if some activities and outside lessons are good, then more The simple fact of the
must be better. matter is that colleges are
not looking for well-
rounded students - they
Before you sign your child up for yet another program, please
want a well-rounded class
consider the following: and will recruit to fill their
Authentic participation is the key, not resume building. needs. If colleges know
Helping your child discover activities that develop a that no single student can
sense of accomplishment and satisfaction is the best and meet all of their needs, why
wisest path. Genuine and demonstrated passion in one do we as parents continue
or two areas is far better than a student who is made to to buy into the well-
feel as though they have to be a jack-of-all trades. rounded myth?
The simple fact of the matter is that colleges are not
looking for well-rounded students - they want a well-
rounded class and will recruit to fill their needs. If colleges know that no
single student can meet all of their needs, why do we as parents continue to
buy into the well-rounded myth?
The idea that there is such a thing as a well-
If you want your children rounded student is in itself deeply flawed. The
to feel hyper-pressured teenager who is truly talented and accomplished
and profoundly across a broad range of disciplines is a myth. The
inadequate, make them ultimate Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci, was
feel as though theyre not well-rounded at the age of 17.
supposed to be good at
Lets also remember that down time is essential to a
everything.
students well-being.

If you want your children to feel hyper-pressured and profoundly inadequate, make
them feel as though theyre supposed to be good at everything. Hopefully, we can all
see that forcing students to be something that they are not is unwise, unnecessary
and unhealthy. There is a better way.

For further reading:

The myth of the well-rounded student? Its better to be T shaped
The 'well-rounded' student myth
Well-rounded vs. angular: the application colleges want to see

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Your FAQs Regarding Standardized Tests Along with a Recommended
Schedule for Their Completion

Of the many college process components, the topic of standardized tests routinely raises
the most questions from both students and parents. And for good reason. In addition to
trying to determine if or when to sit for a test, students have to decide which test(s) to
take, if they need to sit for a re-take, if they should invest time and money into test prep,
etc.

In past UC Newsletter articles, weve tackled many standardized test issues of concern
including:

To Prep or not to Prep, That Is the Question (Pg. 9)

The New SAT: What Are the Implications for CIS Students? (Pg. 7)

Why Sitting for the SAT before Year 12 Makes No Sense (Pg. 5)

Why Are Some US Institutions Abandoning Standardized Tests While Others

Aren't? The Reasons May Surprise You (Pg. 6)

Hot Rumor: CIS Students Are Disadvantaged by Sitting for the Chinese Subject
Exam (Pg 11)

The recent news that the January test date has been eliminated and that the June test
date will only oer subject tests has forced an adjustment in our recommended timetable
for standardized test completion which you will find below, but first well address a few
FAQs.

Were fully aware that the FAQ responses below may not entirely address particular
concerns. Please remember that your CIS University Counsellors are more than happy to
meet with families to help them determine the best approach to standardized test
scheduling and completion.

1. Are standardized tests required for the US-bound student? For most universities
that CIS students routinely apply to, the answer remains yes. But the picture is changing.
Fairtest.org now lists over 900 colleges and universities with test-optional plans* and the
list is growing. For students who do not test well or who are not interested in committing
time and $$$ to test-prep, the test-optional route makes perfect sense.

*Test-optional plans can dier significantly. Reading the fine print is strongly advised.

Recommended Reading:

Test-optional Colleges: A Guide for Prospective Applicants

2. Which is better, the SAT or ACT*?

Better isnt the right word because it suggests that colleges view each test dierently.
In fact, they dont. The SAT has long enjoyed an advantage in the overseas market, but
ACT is closing the gap, and in the US, ACT recently surpassed the SAT in terms of
popularity.

*We strongly recommend that students who opt for the ACT sit for the optional writing
component as it is required by many institutions to which our students routinely apply.

3. The better question to ask is: Which test is most appropriate for my son/
daughter? Generally, most students who have sat for both tests something which we
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dont recommend find that their scores do not dier to any degree that would make a
dierence in admissibility. Thats not surprising especially since the New SAT was designed
to more closely align with the ACT in an eort to recapture sagging market share.

The major dierence between the tests stems from the fact that the ACT has a science
component which the SAT does not. For students who have a demonstrated strength in the
sciences or a desire to pursue them at university, the ACT might be the better choice to
showcase their aptitude. Nice bonus: some universities will not require an SAT science test
if they have completed the ACT. Check individual schools of interest for their policy.

Recommended reading:

SAT vs. ACT/ Princeton Review compares and contrasts the two tests in depth and
includes free ACT/SAT practice tests so students can compare results and make a more
informed choice.

4. Is there any harm in students sitting for a test just to see which one they will score
better in?
Were not fans of this approach at all. The importance of having the
right mindset in sitting for standardized tests cant be overstated. The importance of having
Tests are time consuming, stressful and expensive. The Ill take it the right mindset in sitting
just to see what I can score philosophy rarely yields anything for standardized tests
positive. Instead, we recommend that students make use of the cant be overstated. Tests
practice ACTs and SATs which abound both in our UC oce, in are time consuming,
bookstores and online. Taking a practice test or two can save lots stressful and expensive.
of time in helping students determine if sitting for the real thing is The Ill take it just to see
worth the time, eort and expense.
what I can score
philosophy rarely yields
5. When would you advise that a student sit for a re-take? anything positive.
There are situations in which a re-take is clearly advisable - if the
student was sick or emotionally distraught when he originally sat
for the exam, then clearly a re-test is warranted. If a student
took the test cold, in other words, without any test-prep of
our experience with CIS any kind, then some prep along with a re-test is likely to
students underscores the produce a better score. On the other hand, our experience
fact that theres rarely any with CIS students underscores the fact that theres rarely any
benefit to sitting for any benefit to sitting for any test more than twice. In fact, were
test more than twice. In seeing an increasing number of students who complete a
fact, were seeing an standardized test once and happily put away their #2 pencil.
increasing number of Well cover the re-take question in greater detail in our May
students who complete a newsletter.

standardized test once

and happily put away their 6. How many subject tests are enough? The answer
#2 pencil. depends on the universities that the student is actively
considering. Most US institutions dont require any, while a
tiny handful ask for as many as three. Generally, the more
competitive the school, the greater the number of subject tests required. The students
program of interest is another factor. The art school applicant will not need to complete a
subject test whereas the prospective engineer may, in all likelihood, have to sit for a math
and physics subject tests. Ultimately, the how many subject tests answer is best
determined in consultation with the students university counsellor.

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Recommended Standardized Test Schedule

This is not a one-size-fits-all schedule as we fully understand that personal schedules,

individual university subject test requirements, availability and length of test-prep, Early
Decision and Early Action applications, etc. may alter what we recommend below.

In formulating our recommended schedule, we prioritized the following considerations:

As much as possible, we want our Year 12s to:
1. take all standardized tests that their prospective US institutions will require at least
once by the conclusion of Year 12, thereby freeing Year 13 students to devote
appropriate time to academics and university applications;
2. complete retakes in Year 13 should they prove necessary;
3. avoid sitting for exams or completing test-prep courses that conflict with academic
coursework;
4. avoid sitting for unnecessary retakes.

**********

September: ACT offered.

Year 12s: we feel its too early for students to consider sitting for this test as theyre
entering and adjusting to the Diploma Program. Their focus needs to be on their
academics.
Year 13s: this might be the ideal time for a re-take, especially ideal for students
who completed some test-prep over the summer.

October: ACT, PSAT, SAT and Subject Tests offered.

Year 12s: we recommend that they sit for the PSAT. Designed by the same test
makers who write the SAT, the PSAT approximates the SAT in both length and
types of questions. (without the writing section). Score results include an analysis
of the test questions by section, and an estimate of how the student will perform
on the SAT. For US citizens and green card holders, its also the qualifying exam
for the National Merit Scholarship (NMSQT). Finally, the results can help the
student determine if test prep is warranted, and if so, when.
Year 13s: this might be a good time for the Year 13 who is applying Early Decision
or Early Action to complete the SAT. Also this would be a good time for Year 13s to
take a subject test if they have yet to do so.

November: Subject Tests offered.

Year 12s: we recommend that all Year 12s considering the US complete the
Chinese Subject Test at this time as it will relieve the possibility of an SAT crunch
in Year 13. Note: the Chinese with Listening is only offered at the November
testing. CIS students average over 750 on this exam and they can complete it with
minimal preparation.

December: ACT, SAT and Subject Tests offered.

Year 12s: the leadup to the holiday break is a very busy time of year academically;
thus, we dont recommend that they add to their busy schedule by sitting for an
SAT at this time.
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Year 13s: this is the final opportunity for Year 13s to sit for an ACT/SAT re-test or
complete a necessary Subject Test or two in time for US universities to process in their
applications. As much as possible, we would prefer not to see our Year 13s sitting for
standardized tests at this sitting as this is an extremely busy time of year for them, but
for students who decided on the US late, this will be the last option.

March: SAT oered.

Year 12s: this is the first SAT oering that we recommend for our Year 12s. While the
timing for taking standardized tests is never ideal, sitting for this test oers the best
opportunity for completing a re-test in the fall (See October above) should it prove
necessary.

April: ACT oered.

Year 12s: as with the March SAT oering, this is the first ACT oering that we
recommend for our Year 12s. Sitting for this test oers the best opportunity for
completing a re-test either in June or in the fall of Year 13 should it prove necessary.

May: SAT and Subject tests oered.

Year 12s: May is an extremely busy time for our Year 12s who will be taking semester
exams at this time. Remembering that academic performance is more important to the
admission process than standardized test scores, we do not recommend that Year 12s
sit for May exams.

June: ACT and SAT Subject Tests oered.

Year 12s will have just finished studying for their semester exams - this can only help
subject test performance. If a Year 12 is sitting for the ACT for the first time, sitting for
the June test makes perfect sense. However, if the student sat for his/her first ACT in
April, a re-take in June probably wont result in a substantially dierent score. In this
instance, it might be best for the Year 12 to sit for the September ACT oering.

Further Reading on Standardised Testing

To access a helpful test-optional college guide for prospective applicants, click here.

And click on the following University Counselling website links for in-depth answers on:
Standardized Testing (SAT/ACT)
Standardized Test Preparation
Do I need to take the TOEFL?
ACT vs. SAT: Which one is right for me?

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Dont Forget Size When Sizing Up Colleges

When it comes to selecting universities, size really does matter. While many students
might readily adjust to institutions regardless of size, the overall college experience can
be profoundly dierent at a larger vs. smaller institution.

For many of our students who have yet to begin their college process, they often believe
that the larger the institution, the greater the likelihood of meeting more diverse people,
experiencing a richer assortment of classes and activities, thereby minimizing the
possibility of feeling isolated or bored. These perceptions may or may not enjoy some
validity depending, of course, on the institutions under consideration, but most
importantly, depending on the individual student.

In our conversations with students, we ask them to cast aside preconceptions and focus
on the actual dierences between the two and arrive at choices that will best meet their
needs. The following are factors that we like to bring to their attention.

Advantages of a smaller school

Friendlier and more supportive environment: more than just a If the student wants to start
face in the crowd, students at smaller schools are likelier to feel a club, try his/her hand at
more supported, that their views and opinions count, that they being a DJ for the campus
can make a dierence. The quality and availability of individual radio station, write for the
advising tends to be greater at smaller institutions. Students are school newspaper or take
also likelier to find familiar faces whenever they enter the library on a leadership position,
and cafeteria, or when they join a team or participate in an that student is likely to
activity. If the student wants to start a club, try their hand at encounter less competition
being a DJ for the campus radio station, write for the school for these positions at smaller
newspaper or take on a leadership position, that student is likely schools.
to encounter less competition for these positions at smaller
schools.

Smaller class size: some students learn better through discussions, posing questions
and developing a relationship with the professor. These conditions are less likely at
larger institutions where class size, particularly in introductory level courses, can reach
several hundred students. The smaller the class, the greater the likelihood that student
work will be evaluated more thoroughly along with a greater opportunity for constructive
feedback. Smaller class sizes also mean a greater likelihood of receiving writing
assignments that will develop writing skills a key component of a quality college
experience.

Professors teaching the class: smaller institutions typically do not have graduate
programs. Professors teach all of the classes, not teacher assistants. The odds of
getting an experienced professor are therefore often greater at smaller institutions.

Commitment to teaching: at many larger institutions, professors main priority (and path
for advancement) may be research - not teaching as they have to live by the publish or
perish rubric. At smaller institutions, professors are often more likely to prioritize
teaching. Additionally, undergraduate students are more likely to be involved in
partnering in a professors research. This level of collaboration is less likely at larger
schools where graduate students are more often given the nod.

One-on-one relationship with professors: the quality of student-teacher relationship is

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frequently cited as a key factor in student learning and overall satisfaction. This relationship
can extend beyond classroom learning to include academic and career advising as well as
grad school recommendations.

Flexibility in course selection: smaller institutions are frequently more flexible in terms of
course requirements, allowing students to focus on courses or degrees theyre genuinely
interested in.

Less bureaucracy at smaller institutions: popular courses generally dont fill up as fast,
theres less queuing at the registrars oce, the clinic or the cafeteria.

Advantages of a larger school

Greater diversity of students: while Wider variety of majors and courses: for the student
smaller institutions often work to who is eager to specialize in a subject area not
build diversity into their readily available at the small college level, larger
acceptances, the fact is that larger institutions will provide a better fit.

institutions can sometimes expose

students to a wider range of peers, Well-stocked libraries and state-of-the-art research
coming from more varied facilities: generally, the larger the institution, the
backgrounds, and expressing a greater the likelihood that one will find an advantage
richer assortment of socio-political in terms of facilities.

views. Researching individual

schools will provide a clearer Greater diversity of students: while smaller
picture of actual population institutions may work to build diversity into their
diversity.
acceptances, the fact is that larger institutions can
sometimes expose students to a wider range of
peers, coming from more varied backgrounds, and
expressing a richer assortment of socio-political views. Researching individual schools will
provide a clearer picture of population diversity.

Variety of housing opportunities: larger schools generally mean greater housing options.

Well-funded sports programs: for the student who is highly skilled in a particular sport, the
larger school may provide a greater level of competition. But it will be harder to make the
team. Additionally, if a student envisions Saturday afternoon football games as an essential
component of the college experience, this is something that larger colleges are more likely
to provide.

Wider range of student activities: one is more likely to find a greater variety of clubs,
organizations and social events at the larger school so in that sense, they may be better
able to address particular student needs.

Distinguished or famous faculty: the great majority of Nobel prize winners and leaders in
various research fields will be found at larger institutions. If this is an important factor, the
interested student should research if and/or what the famous prof actually teaches.

A word about mid-sized schools

The mid-size school can provide the best of both worlds, but as with any school, the
student needs to make sure it will actually provide what he/she wants. If the school is large
and small in ways the student doesnt want, it wont be a good fit. As weve often said,
thoughtful research will make all the dierence.

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Student personality

A final variable to consider in the big vs. small decision-making is the students personality. If
a student is rather shy or less outgoing in social gatherings, a smaller school might provide a
more comfortable and nurturing environment. For the more outgoing self-starter determined
to meet new people and experience new things, the larger school might work very well
indeed.

In the end, the choice comes down to the students understanding their wants and needs
based on honest reflection along with a thorough understanding of the many factors to
consider in selecting which size will best satisfy them. As university counsellors, we see it as
an important part of our work to help them in that process.

Summer Internships: Advice Before Making Plans

As your son or daughter begins thinking about the upcoming summer holiday, families
may want to discuss the possibility of an internship. Whether paid or unpaid, internships
can provide valuable on the job experience, ideally in an occupation or profession of
interest.

Although internships are by no means a requirement for the future college applicant,
there are many short and long term benefits to completing one. Undertaking an
internship does not only furnish the student with an insiders view into the working world,
but it can also provide great networking opportunities with potential mentors from an
industry of interest. Furthermore, internships can sometimes inspire a students college
major.

If your son or daughter is thinking about an internship, good questions to ask include:

What are his/her career goals or areas of interest?

What does he/her hope to gain from an internship experience?

Are there particular industries or companies where he/she might like to work in
the future?

What is the time frame of availability? Generally, internships can vary in length
from one to several weeks.

To begin their search, students are encouraged to

Warning: while completing
an internship before
college can set students
apart from their peers (as
high school internships are
not as prevalent as those
completed during college),
internships should never
be pursued out of a desire
to get a leg up on the
college admissions race.
network with family, friends, teachers, and of course, our
resourceful CIS alumni and parent community. It is also
worthwhile to check company websites as internship
opportunities are sometimes posted on their careers
page. However, chances of being selected for these
opportunities may be slim as businesses can receive
many applications with limited availability. Another way
to search for internships is by cold-calling a company
directly to see whether they are willing to hire interns,
but this method requires patience and tolerance for the
word No:)

Organizations and businesses tend to receive the largest

volume of internship applications are between early April and May. If your son or
daughter would like to commit to an internship this summer, now is the time to start

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brainstorming and contacting companies. For internships introduced by well-connected
acquaintances, students can contact and arrange for an internship about a month in advance.

In the quest for an internship, it will be important for students to write a cover letter and
prepare a resume. Guidance on preparing these documents are provided by Ms. Annie Yung
on an individual basis. Having gone through the entire process of obtaining and completing
an internship, students will be better equipped for their internship search which could pay o
in future job searches as well.

In todays ever changing employment landscape, we believe that completing a quality

internship will not only help students gain a better understanding of themselves and the real
world, but also develop skills that will accompany them through life after CIS!

Finally, should your company/organization have any internship opportunities available during
the upcoming summer holiday or at any time throughout the school year, we would be
delighted to add them to our growing database of opportunities. Please contact our Individual
and Career Advancement Counsellor, Ms. Annie Yung, (ayung@cis.edu.hk) for more
information.

Early Decision and Early Action Plans: Pros and Cons to Applying Early

Since the advent of early application plans, rumours have swirled as to whether students
enjoy an advantage by applying early. Adding to the confusion is the plethora of early
application options. Before applying under any early application plan, students and parents
are strongly advised to thoroughly research the options and not fall victim to the myths.

What is Early Decision (ED)?

Applying early is not necessarily advantageous ED is a binding process, which
While acceptance rates sometimes show a greater means that applicants
percentage of students being admitted through these accepted under this plan must
early round plans, other factors (see below) are at play. attend the school. Students
Once these other factors are accounted for, the can only seek release from an
admission rates generally skew towards percentages ED obligation on the grounds
consistent with those found in the general applicant pool. of financial hardship; however,
the burden of proof is on the
students. Applicants are expected to submit an ED application to only one school; however,
if rejected, applicants can submit applications to other schools under normal application
procedures. Applicants must also agree to withdraw all other applications if accepted to
their ED school.

What is Early Decision (ED) I/II?

ED I applications are due in November for a December decision; whereas, ED II applications
are due in January for a February response. Both ED plans are binding. ED II plans allow for
the applicants mid-year grades to be considered.

What is Early Action (EA)?

EA is a non-binding process. Applications must be submitted by November and
notifications are sent around mid-December. Students are free to apply to more than one
EA institution unless theyre applying under one of the restrictive plans explained below.

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What is Restrictive Early Action or Single-Choice Early Action?
Restrictive EA rules depend on the school. Generally, it is a non-binding process restricting
applicants from submitting multiple early applications. Applications must be submitted by
November. Some examples of Restrictive EA programs include:

Stanford: in applying, applicants agree not to apply to any other private college/
university under an EA, Restrictive EA, Early Decision or Early Notification program.
However, applicants may apply to other colleges and universities under their Regular
Decision option.

Harvard: only after students receive notification from Harvards EA program in mid-
December are they free to apply to any institution under any plan.

Princeton (Single-Choice Early Action): under this plan, students may not apply to any
early program at any other private college or university. However, they can apply to any
public institution, service academy, international institution, college or university with a
non-binding rolling admission process, or a regular college or university after
December 15 in its regular decision admissions program.

History of ED
Early Decision plans were first oered by universities both as a marketing tool and as a way of
managing the admissions workload by spreading out the application reading season. These
plans have come under considerable criticism for speeding up the application process which
favours auent youth who generally benefit from greater university counselling support. In
response to these concerns, Harvard, Princeton and the University of Virginia eliminated their
Early Application plans in 2006, but, bowing to market pressure, their early application plans
were reinstated within a few years.

Do all schools oer ED and EA?

Not all schools oer an early admissions plan; in fact, only about 450 schools oer this
option. When considering early application, students are strongly advised to determine
whether a college of interest oers early admission plans and to verify individual policies or
stipulations attached to either their ED or EA plans.

Applying early is not necessarily advantageous

While acceptance rates sometimes show a greater percentage of students being admitted
through these early round plans, other factors (see below) are at play. Once these other
factors are accounted for, the admission rates generally skew towards acceptance
percentages consistent with those found in the general applicant pool.

Likely successful applicants such as athletes, donor children, faculty children and
alumnus children often apply during the early application round, skewing the
acceptance rate higher.

There are often stronger profiles among candidates who choose early action or early
decision, and these candidates will be admitted at a higher rate.

Benefits to applying early

Reduced application stress once accepted.
Reduced time waiting for a decision.
Student potentially saves time and expense of submitting multiple applications if
accepted.
Students can reassess options and apply elsewhere if not accepted.

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Drawbacks of Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED)

If an applicants Year 13 performance is on an upward trend, the applicant is better
o applying in the regular pool. Applying early with mediocre grades does not put a
student at an advantage even when applying early. In fact, this can hurt an
applicants chances.
University admissions committees do not take risks on early applicants that are not
clearly stronger than applicants they are likely to see in the regular pool.
Reduced time to decide.
Time pressure for completing early applications.
Senioritis: an EA/ED oer can lessen the urgency of maintaining grades.

Rest assured that your CIS University Counsellors are happy to work closely with students
and parents to assure that all of these factors have been taken into consideration before
making a decision on any application plan.

For Further Reading:

History of EA/ED

Plague of Early Decision

Early Decision Strategy

Early Decision for the Wealthy

* When Early Decision is the Wrong Decision

Going Dutch? The Netherlands Has Much to Offer

Why should prospective college students consider Holland? For students open to other
options aside from the conventional systems of U.S., U.K., Hong Kong, Canada or
Australia, there are many reasons to look to the Netherlands.

The Netherlands are noted for their economic stability, highly skilled workforce and
developed infrastructure. If political uncertainty is a concern, then the Netherlands may
be worth careful consideration.

Other reasons to go Dutch:

University admission to the Netherlands, as in most continental European countries, is
not so much based on high grades as on having the right school leaving certificate.
Dutch universities recognize the merits of high achieving students but are not as grade
conscious as British and US counterparts. The application process is not so vastly
dierent from the UK system. Applicants apply through Studielink, a centralized
application system similar to UCAS.
Dutch universities enjoy a reputation for their quality of education and quality
assurance, ensured through QANU which oversees university compliance with
educational standards.

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With an annual tuition of 7800 for non-EU students, i.e. international students, the low
cost relative to other countries is attractive. Furthermore, students are allowed to work
part-time to oset expenses (unlike the US and UK, where restrictions exist).

Dutch universities are known for their problem based learning approach.

Students can expect an interactive and teamwork focused experience. Degree programs
tend to be practical in nature and are likely to include job-readiness skills.

Other advantages include gaining a richer international perspective, learning Dutch, and
small class sizes.

There are 14 degree granting universities in Holland. A good number of Dutch universities
oer a wide range of English language degree granting programs. There are now about 350
bachelor qualifications taught entirely in English, while other qualifications have a large
English medium of instruction.

Popular majors oered in English include:

advertising at Willem de Kooning Academie in Rotterdam;

aeronautical engineering at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft;

Aerospace engineering at Aerospace Engineering Delft University of Technology in

Delft;

Applied Maths at University of Twente in Enschede;

Business Administration at both Nyenrode Business University University of

Amsterdam at Utrecht and Amsterdam, respectively;

Design at both Design Academy Eindhoven at Einhoven and Hanze University of

Applied Sciences at Groningen, respectively;

Economics and Business Economics at Erasmus University Rotterdam in Rotterdam

and at University of Amsterdam in Amsterdam, respectively;

Medicine at Maastricht University in Maastricht and many more options which can
be found at the link below.

Check to determine if a potential degree is recognized outside the EU

The recognition of qualifications and degrees may also be an area of concern for parents
and students alike. While certain degrees are not recognized outside of Holland, many are.
For example, an economics degree granted from any Dutch university is recognized by all
countries in the E.U.

For additional information on whether an intended university major or diploma is

recognized outside of the Netherlands, check on the links below:

http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/professional-qualifications/regulated-
professions/index_en.htm

https://www.epnuc.nl/en/#tab-foreign-education-systems

For further reading:

http://www.studyinholland.co.uk/full_course_directory_bachelors.html

https://www.studyinholland.nl

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U of Rochester Is Rich in Research Opportunities, Program Offerings and

Flexibility

The University of Rochester is one of Americas leading private research

universities, consistently ranking among the top in federally financed
science, engineering, medical and other research. Along with this rigor,
Rochester operates on a personal scale, creating exceptional opportunities
for undergraduate research, close work with faculty, and interdisciplinary
study. The Unique Rochester Curriculum invites students to study what
they love with focus and flexibility. Through individual and collaborative
eorts, our students and faculty improve themselves, each other, and our shared learning
environment in the process.

What makes Rochester Dierent?

Academic success is determined by more than courses or majors. During the college search
process, remember this: many colleges are good, some are exceptional, but almost none oer the
freedom to create ones own success. That freedom not only exists at the University of Rochester,
it thrives.

As a Rochester student even as a freshman

students have the freedom to conduct collaborative
research with classmates and professors. Research
is performed in all areas, from laser energetics to
brain imaging to the works of Elizabethan
dramatists. Our 10:1 student-faculty ratio allows for
focused investigation and in-depth learning in every
field. Over 77% of students are involved in some
form of research.

Academic Opportunities
Undergraduates receive an extraordinarily strong
education in their chosen fields. Additionally,
Rochester oers many options beyond traditional
course work. Opportunities that allow our students to explore their individual interest further
include: Combined-Admission Programs (CPAs), Dual Degree Programs, Research and Innovation
Grants, Kauman Entrepreneurial Year, Take Five Scholars, private lessons at the Eastman School
of Music, study abroad, and undergraduate research.

Student Life
The Universitys undergraduate student body of roughly 6,000 comes from 120 countries (23% of
students arrive from outside of the U.S), creating a truly global environment on campus. Nearly
90% of undergraduates live on campus. With more than 275 clubs and organizations ranging
from cultural to political to religious to athletic students easily find communities of friends who
share interests and passions.

When its time for recreation, students flock to the Goergen Athletic Center. The center includes
11,000 sq. ft. fitness facility; an indoor track and activity field; a swimming pool and diving well;
numerous courts for squash, racquetball, indoor tennis, basketball and volleyball; a state-of-the-art
athletic training facility; and the Palestra, home for 23 Division III varsity teams and host to various
campus events.

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City of Rochester
With Lake Ontario on its northern
border, the scenic Finger Lakes to the
south, and more than a million
people, Rochester is rated among the
most livable cities in the United
States. The city of Rochester is a
dynamic mix of culture, commerce,
history, where all four seasons of the
year are embraced and celebrated.
The citys wealth of gardens, flower
festivals and reputation as an
entrepreneurial center for horticultural
excellence has earned Rochester the
title of the Flower city.

Admission Requirements
The University of Rochester seeks to admit students who will take advantage of its resources, be
strongly motivated to do their best, and embrace a life through the U of R that embodies our
motto, Meliora or ever better. An applicants character, extracurricular activities, academic
accomplishments and career goals are all considered. There are no minimum requirements for
admission. We follow a test flexible admission policy wherein a wide variety of test results can
fulfill Rochesters testing requirement, including SAT Reasoning exams, the ACT, two or more
results from SAT Subject exams, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, GCE, SE, AS-
and A-level exams (in UK and Commonwealth countries), Gao Kao (China), and results from many
other national secondary exams

Cartoon Link

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Recommended Reading:
In The Gift of Failure, Failure Is the Key to Success

As a middle school teacher, wife and mother of two boys, Jessica Lahey
approaches the subject of parenting from a rich background of personal
and professional experience. A contributing writer for The Atlantic (see
article below), she also writes the Parent-Teacher Conference column
at the NY Times.

In The Gift of Failure, the author asks parents to consider a simple

question: if students are shielded from experiencing failure in childhood,
how will they cope with lifes inevitable failures in adulthood? The
question stems from her classroom experience as a middle school teacher precisely the
age where students natural love of learning is often replaced by a fear of failure.

Filled with keenly observed and felt experiences, The Gift of Failure is a powerful attempt
to counteract the evil eects of grade consciousness on developing minds - highly
recommended reading for parents with children of all ages.

Quotes from The Gift of Failure:

Even parents admit that grades get in the
Im going to point out the gigantic elephant
way of their relationship with their children.
standing in the middle of this chapter right away.
I never thought Id be this kind of mum, but
Grades. Theres no way around this unfortunate
here I am. Grades are stressing me out. I
reality so Im going to face it head-on. Grades are
think about my kids grades all the time,
extrinsic rewards for academic performance.
every day. I know its wrong and its stupid,
Extrinsic rewards undermine motivation and long-
and I know the kids get mad at me when I do
term learning. Ergo, grades undermine learning
it, but I cant help it, and these days, I feel
and long-term motivation.

like its all I talk about with them.

Even parents admit that grades get in the way of
their relationship with their children. I never thought
Id be this kind of mum, but here I am. Grades are stressing me out. I think about my
kids grades all the time, every day. I know its wrong and its stupid, and I know the kids
get mad at me when I do it, but I cant help it, and these days, I feel like its all I talk about
with them.

Students recover. People do it all the time. And the failure helps them learn about
themselves. First, they learn that people want them to be okay. Second, they learn that
they can overcome a problem, but that work and attention are more important than genius
and perfection. Students need to fail, because this is when they learn to succeed.

Review for the Gift of Failure:

NY Times review

Further reading:
When Success Leads to Failure: the pressure to succeed academically is a crime
against learning by Jessica Fahey

The Gift of Failure - uTube

Perspectives on Failure from Psychology Today

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Articles of Interest from Around the Web

US-related
Some colleges have more students from the top 1% than the bottom 60%. Find yours.

Could Linkedin give students an in with college admissions?

Why do so many Chinese students choose US universities?

CollegeBoard to boost SAT security to combat cheating

Why American universities need immigrants

Five myths about college admission

AP Classes are a scam

International student numbers surge ahead of Trump-inspired inLlux

The "great escape boltholes for academics Lleeing Brexit and Trump

HK-related
Hothouse Hong Kong is spawning a new breed of monster parents

UK-related
Universities and Brexit: Weve 2500 EU students talent we dont want to lose

PPE: the Oxford degree that rules Britain

Universities-global issues
College Calculus: Whats the real value of a college education?

Business is the most popular college major, but that doesnt mean its the best choice.

White students unfair advantage in admissions

Future perfect: what will universities of the future in 2030 look like?

Foreign universities battle to succeed in Singapore

How prepared are university students for the jobs of the future?

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