The Stevenson High School College Career Center hosted a meeting on March 21, 2025, to discuss the upcoming Junior Family College and Career Night, focusing on essential information for students and families regarding college admissions and standardized testing.
The meeting began with an overview of the ACT testing process. Students are encouraged to submit one of three components for their college applications, emphasizing that extensive preparation for testing is not necessary. The writing component of the ACT was noted as unnecessary, as colleges do not utilize it for admissions purposes. Students will take the ACT in early April, which will be the traditional format, while a new digital version of the ACT will be introduced for Saturday test dates starting in April.
The discussion highlighted the importance of English proficiency exams for students who have recently moved to the United States. Families were informed that students who have not attended an English-speaking school for three years may need to take tests such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo to demonstrate their readiness for college-level instruction.
The meeting also covered upcoming ACT and SAT test dates, noting that registration for some summer tests is already filling up. The presenters provided a detailed schedule of test dates, including options available at Stevenson High School and other local institutions.
In addition to standardized testing, the meeting addressed the significance of college application essays. Key topics included common essay prompts, such as the "Why Us" and "Why This Major" questions, which aim to gauge a student's genuine interest in a college and their chosen field of study. The presenters emphasized the importance of personal reflection in essays and provided tips on how to effectively convey personal experiences and growth.
The session concluded with information about a college essay workshop offered at Stevenson, designed to equip students with the skills needed to write compelling college essays. The workshop will take place over four days during the summer, providing students with resources, peer feedback, and guidance from instructors.
Overall, the meeting served as a comprehensive resource for families navigating the college admissions process, highlighting the importance of preparation, understanding testing requirements, and crafting effective application essays.