How to Successfully Prepare For College

Business Wire, Jan 12, 2007

PHILADELPHIA -- A successful college experience takes a lot of work - before a prospective student even sets foot on campus. One of the first steps in the college admissions process is standardized testing. Often parents and students face the dilemma of whether to take the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or the ACT (American College Testing) or both.

Drexel University's Kimberly Lewis, assistant director of undergraduate admissions, and Dale Amburgey, associate director of data management and analysis in undergraduate admissions, have the following tips to share with parents and prospective college students:

SAT vs. ACT

* The reality is that neither test is superior to the other. The decision of which one to take may be determined simply by whatever admission criteria is laid out by a student's school of choice.

* Although there is no science that proves the ACT or the SAT is easier, students should determine which test format is better suited to their academic strengths.

* The ACT features four trademark multiple-choice subject tests covering English, math, reading, and science. These are designed to evaluate overall educational development and ability to complete college-level work.

* In contrast to the ACT, the SAT is designed to evaluate general thinking and problem-solving abilities.

* The SAT also provides the chance to take Subject Tests. A few schools may require prospective students to take some of these tests as additional requirements for admission.

* Despite their differences, neither test is more likely than the other to produce a great score.

* Start with a few practice exams.

Lewis and Amburgey will share tips and offer advice on how to start the college search off right in the premiere episode of "College Bound" on Jan. 14. The show will air on WPSJ-TV throughout southern New Jersey and Pennsylvania homes via PCN (Pennsylvania Cable Network).

Co-hosted by Brian Greenberg, certified college planning specialist, the show will cover every aspect of the college search and admissions process in each of the 13 episodes to be broadcast weekly. Drexel experts and students will share information each week.

All "College Bound" episodes will be available for download at www.drexel.edu/collegebound. The interactive Web site offers college seekers the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback from Drexel admissions experts and students.