Here’s a question that matters more than most families realize: Should your kid prep for the SAT or the ACT?
College admissions
Standing out as a consequence: Why authentic engagement beats résumé building
For many families, college prep starts early. Sometimes as early as eighth grade. The mission is clear: build a “portfolio” that makes a student stand out. But there’s a difference between standing out and trying to look like you stand out. Families push to curate...
Challenging AMC 8 problems: A path to mathematical excellence
Mathematics is more than just numbers and equations. It is a fascinating world of patterns, logic, creativity, and beauty. But how can you discover and appreciate the wonders of mathematics? One way is to participate in the AMC 8, a prestigious contest for middle...
The AMC vs the usual tests and grades
This blog, also hosted on Substack, is where I share what I’ve been discussing, writing, and reading in the realms of academic and cognitive development for gifted high schoolers in specific, and education in general. My tutoring and coaching practice is centered...
Recent AMC changes
...and how some ambitious students can reap huge benefits There have been some major shifts in the college admissions landscape over the last few years. These shifts have changed the value of the AMC for certain students, and they have also changed how a student...
A few thoughts about the ACT/SAT
If you’re heading to college, you’re almost certainly going to take the ACT or SAT at least once. I’d like to set the record straight on a few things so that we can all minimize unproductive time and effort, especially in light of the fact that most students take...