College board recently announced that major changes are underway for AP classes to help students most efficiently achieve these credits. This includes improved formative assessment and adding an integrative experience. The changes were implemented after teachers shared feedback following existing AP classes and after scientists released information from studies that found what skills are needed in college in the 21st century.

One of the biggest changes is the final test. Students will find that the College Board changed test questions to create a greater challenge that promotes deeper learning.

“The redesigned AP exams are increasing their focus on essays and open-ended problems, and reducing the number of multiple-choice questions; the remaining multiple-choice questions are shifting to measure not just content knowledge, but content knowledge and the skill to use that knowledge in meaningful ways essential to college and career success in that discipline,” said Trevor Packer, Head of AP at College Board via statement. “There’s not a single exam question now that measures memorization only. They each evaluate skills and the application of knowledge.”

Teachers believe that the new layout is helping high school students prepare for college. 80 percent of AP biology teachers believer that students are learning more in classes. Students are also tested more regularly than with just one final exam throughout the year. The assessment helps students complete the course with less stress while knowing where they stand.

The new layout is based off the International Baccalaureate program. In this program students spend one year researching a global project with presentations and a seminar project. In the second year students deeply research the projeect and report on their findings.  “Schools and teachers love it because it allows content flexibility while giving external validation of mastery,” said Packer.

In contrast students in the past studied a specific subject, such as 19th century British literature, and deeply studied the subject throughout the year. At the end of the year students would take a test to see how much they learned throughout the year. The new layout is intended to help students absorb and relate the information to their college careers.

According to the Associated Press, 200 online courses will be offered to anyone with Internet access. The classes come from such established universities as Brown, Columbia, Emory, Vanderbilt and Wesleyan as well as smaller colleges and universities around the globe. The article states that 1.3 million students are taking advantage of the programs, even using it as a way to take a handful of free classes to simply complete necessary credits.

Though online classes are common, the concept can be intimidating. Online classes are offered through most colleges and universities as an alternative to attending class in a classroom. It is offered as a class or supplement to assist students with completing class on their own schedule. These classes are ideal for those who work or have an internship on top of attending college. Those who commute can also benefit from online classes because they do not have to drive to school to attend class, but can access the content anywhere with Internet access.

Classes are taught over the Internet using a variety of tools.

• A textbook is required for assigned reading and assignments, though this information may also be downloaded through the website.
• A laptop is best for online classes to assure that assignments are turned in on time and that a student can always work in a quiet area. Podcasts or streaming videos are available through websites from professors as study tools as well. These contain lectures that the students also download for free.
• Professors also may use webcams to hold live video chats for question and answer portions of the class as well.
• Telephones and email addresses are also needed to stay in contact with professors throughout the semester.
• Scheduled one-on-one meetings are also used on occasion to keep in touch with professors.

These tools should all be established before class so the professor can call at any time necessary. A quiet place to work as well as a schedule is necessary for online success. These classes are more flexible, but without setting time aside each day or a few times a week for the class, the work load will pile up. It is important to keep tract of assignment dates as well using a planner. Set enough time aside to slowly complete projects to avoid stressful situations.

Those who thrive at time management will find that the incorporation of a few online classes may make a semester easier to handle, especially when taking 16-18 credits.

Scholarships are a form of funding that is granted to students who write essays or participate in programs. This money is often privately funded and does not have to be paid back as a student loan would. At times students feel that scholarships are unattainable because thousands of people apply for most major ones. However, there’s plenty of lesser known scholarships that are available around the world.

Scholarships From Your Workplace

Most major companies offer scholarships to employees or children of employees. These scholarships may be obtained with a simple application, while others require a written essay and/or volunteer hours.

Target Stores offers the All-Around Scholarship each year to recognize tomorrow’s leaders. This award includes 2,100 winners, most notably four awards for $10,000 each.

Wisconsin’s supermarket chain, Pick ‘n Save offers a variety of scholarships to employees as well. This company will even cover parts of tuition for those taking classes to further their career with Roundy’s. Textbook reimbursement is even available through select stores. The award is based on academic standing.

Specialty Scholarships

If you are studying a specific major, look at companies in the industry for scholarships. Often companies look to offer scholarships to not only help students, but to encourage students to study certain subjects.

Annie’s Homegrown offers a $50,000 scholarship for students studying sustainable and organic agriculture. This scholarship is given each year and is enough to cover an entire college education at some universities and colleges.

Organizations also offer scholarships to specific areas of study. The Mythology Society of America offers annual scholarships to classic students and those with an interest in different areas of mythology.

Scholarships for the Physically Unique

Throughout school being left-handed can be a struggle with mostly right-handed students filling seats. The Frederick and Mary E. Beckley Scholarship foundation offers a yearly scholarship for left-handed students only. This means that less than half of the population is eligible for this award.
The Tall Clubs International Scholarship is also available only for students who are over six feet tall.

Creative Organizations

Not all scholarships are based on scholarly work. For some students expressing creativity is more important that academic classics, and many organizations wish to help the creative process with scholarships.

Seussville: Oh, the Places You Will Go! College Scholarship encourages only the most creative essays describing a student’s dreams and goals, while the J.D. Salinger Award offers an annual award for “creative geniuses” at Ursinus College.

It’s all in a Name

Perhaps one of the best scholarships to apply for is those based on your last name. Yes, that’s correct- some schools offer scholarships only to students with the select last names. For example, the Zolp Scholarship is available for students with the same last name at Loyola University and Scarpinatos at Texas A&M can win a free ride to the school.

What are some of the most unique scholarships you found and applied for?

According to the U.S. Department of Education the Pell Grant Program “provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate and certain postbaccalaureate students to promote access to postsecondary education.” In comparison to other loans, a Pell Grant is different for a variety of reasons.

The biggest difference is that this grant does not have to be repaid, unlike private or government loans. There is a maximum award each year for a Pell Grant per student. The limit for the 2011-2012 year is $5,550. The amount that a student earns is based off their financial need, school costs and status.

Just who is qualified for a Pell Grant? This varies mostly based on financial need. This number is based on a standard formula that figures all income that comes into a home. Families’ income is based on assets, the parents’ income and their assets, the household size and how many students are currently in postsecondary school. Financial need varies based on if the student is independent or dependent and if they are full- or part-time students.

Pell Grants not only help students afford school, but the program also helps determine which schools are the most economically diverse. U.S. News and World Report released a list of economically diverse colleges, using the amount of awarded Pell Grants to determine just how many people are seeking different way to pay for college bills and living expenses. The list explored the top schools that accepted students who were just below or above the Pell Grant cut-off.

New Mexico State University topped the list of most economically diverse schools because 99 percent of the students received some form of a Pell Grant to attend the university. Texas A&M was surprisingly second on the list with 91 percent of students utilizing the program. Kent State University was third with 88 percent, while Texas Southern University had 84 percent of students attending with a Pell Grant.

The Eastern side of the country also made the list with Southern Carolina State University (82 percent) and Florida Institute of Technology (79 percent) were found in the middle of the list.  Florida A&M University, Tennessee State University, National-Louis University and the University of Texas El Paso rounded out the list, with El Paso having a student population of 68 percent using the program.

One may conclude from the results that Texas is one state that has the highest use of the program, but let’s not forget this is one of the biggest states in the country. Therefore more students are using programs to complete college degrees.

For more information on Pell Grants, visit your financial aid office.

Colleges wants students to evolve as a “whole,” this means working on their character outside of the classroom. Students tend to get involved in extra curricular activities to meet people and feel involved on campus, as well as to gain important skills for their future career. Schools have the same expectations when offering such programs and organizations, hoping to engage students in a social, community and institutional level.

Extra curricular activities bring students together to work as a team for a common goal. Within organizations and clubs, students must negotiate, communication, manage conflict and be leaders. These are all important goals for a successful student. In the end most schools find that students who participate outside of the classroom have more confident in the classroom and work place. They are not afraid to ask questions or take leads, and most importantly they participate more in class discussions and activities.

Colleges and universities at all levels offer extra curricular activities for a variety of interests. Student government is the perfect organization to join if you want to build strong leadership skills. If you are majoring in political science this is a must for your resume. The student newspaper allows you to gain experience as a writer while making friends and connections in the community. Most journalism jobs require you write for a student newspaper or website. Volunteer services such as Habitat for Humanity or Meals on Wheels are also a good way to not only give back, but evolve as an individual. Spanish language clubs are good for those interested in a foreign language or business degree. Athletics teach team work and responsibility as well. Campus extra curricular activities stretch far beyond this. Find clubs that meet your interests and career goals and attend a meeting. It is the best way to make the most of your time on campus.

It is important to recognize that even if you commute to school, you should make time for clubs and organizations. It can be more difficult if you balance school and work, but participating in at least one activity will help shape your future.

A minor is similar to a major, emphasizing in a specific area of study. In a way it is a less extensive double major. The main goal of a minor is to help guide students towards their career goals. A major and minor go hand in hand because the minor is a reflection of what the student wishes to accomplish in life. For example, if a student is working on a business administration degree, a Spanish or Chinese minor is helpful because he will work with foreign business men to make deals. While working on a foreign language minor, he will become fluent in that language.

Some universities require that students earn a minor, while others only leave the option open as a suggestion. There are two main reasons that students should earn a minor alongside a major. When entering the job market a minor is a great way to stand out against the competition. It shows employers that students are serious about a career and want to take the time to perfect their art. It is an opportunity to learn a new talent or a specific sector a career field. Another reason that students should work towards a minor is to follow their passion.

Students who have a creative passion should use this opportunity to continue studying their art. For example, those who played and enjoyed trumped in middle and high school may want to minor in music to make time for their passion during college. For some music is not a good career path to follow because it is extremely competitive, but students may not want to give up on something they enjoy.

Aside from standing out and following a passion, students can also use this opportunity to learn something new that may or may not help their career in the future. This may be a foreign language, computer programming or drawing.

Choosing a minor should not be stressful once a student decides the purpose of picking up a minor. Speak with your adviser about the programs available. He will be able to suggest the best minor to coincide with your major as well. Some examples include pairing a scientific minor with a math major or journalism with political science or criminal justice. Languages are always safe if you are entering a career where you will work with others from or in foreign countries.

Be sure to research what credits and classes are required for your minor because they will differ from your major. Work with your adviser to pick the best schedule to meet your minor and major needs.

According to the 2012 Space Availability Survey from the National Association for College Admission Counseling, 375 of the nation’s 2,200 colleges still have spaces available for fall. 70 percent of the colleges listed are private schools in 48 states and the District of Columbia. Students can view the list that shows not only what schools have space, but who has housing and financial aid available as well.

Going to college, even with a late application, is an investment in your future. Do not settle for just any school because it has openings for the fall. Sit down and plan exactly what you want from a school. Start with looking into what classes it offers for your desired major. Choose a school that is known for the program you want to enter. Be sure to research if the programs are accredited and what expectations exist for the program.

Once you view the programs, consider what academic support the college offers. If you need tutors or academic planning, are these services available through the college ? Research exactly what services are available and if they can be of use to your college career.

Next explore what extracurricular activities the campus offers. It is important to get involved on campus to not only make friends, but to build up your resume.  If you think of college sports when you think of what college life should be like, make sure your college offers basketball or football.

If you can’t get into a school of your choice, consider attending a school that has space near home. You can complete your general requirement classes while commuting and saving money and transfer in future semesters.

Never think that it is too late to apply as long as you apply before the college’s deadline for the semester.

What is an elective?

Elective classes are those you are required to take for your major, but you have a pool of classes to choose from instead of a list of specified classes. For example, if you are studying journalism, you may be required to take 12 credits of science. This means you can pick any science classes to take during your college career, as long as you have a total of 12 science credits upon graduating. Some programs may require you choose from a list of specific classes, but this is less common.

Why do I need electives?

Aside from needing to complete electives to receive your diploma, electives are one way to take control of your education. These classes may seem unnecessary at the time, but universities intend for these classes to allow you to take control of your career path. These classes allow you to choose your specialty. For example, if you are majoring in History you can choose to take classes geared towards early British history or colonial America.

How do I Choose Electives?

Meet with your college and program advisers. Discuss with your college adviser exactly what type of elective credits you need to graduate. Next ask the same question to your program adviser. The number of credits may be different between the overall college and individual program. You do not want to show up to your last adviser meeting and learn that you are short credits.

Once you know how many science, math, cultural and creative credits you need, sit down with your list of class options. Think about what you expect out of college. This is the opportunity you have to obtain new skills, especially those that will help your future career. For example, if you are studying journalism you can take statistics or a business class if you wish to cover business beats. These classes will give you extra knowledge and an advantage against the competition in your field.

If possible, take electives that cross over into different categories. For example, if you need a writing class to complete your English minor, choose a class that also counts for an arts elective for your overall college in the Bachelor of Arts. You can save time and money taking one class instead of two separate classes to fill each requirement.

After your first semester of planning your schedule you will have an easier time planning your electives, especially as you decide what you expect from your future career.

Parents are also playing a major part in students’ financial lives according to a new survey. Ameriprise Financial surveyed 300 children of baby boomers and 300 parent baby boomers to see what kind of financial impact they have on each other. The survey found that 93 percent of baby boomers help their children out while in college in some way. This includes providing money for rent and utilities, paying for a car, insurance and other daily needs. The most interesting art of the survey is that half of the baby boomers let their children live at home after college- rent free.

Of the 300 parents surveyed, 35 percent agreed that they do not feel their children understand how to manage funds properly, and this is one reason why parents let the children live rent free. In the past few years this is not uncommon after college as students attempt to pay off their student loans and save money for their future. Forbes recently suggested that the live-at-home lifestyle is what is ruining the real estate market, but truthfully more people can afford homes after living at home for free until they earn enough money to move out.

If used as a temporary solution to help pay for college, living at home may be the perfect solution to a student’s financial woes. Parents who are willing to help may set ground rules to assure that their adult children learn how to manage their funds and invest for the future.  For example, money that would be used for rent should be used instead to pay off student loans quicker. The faster a student pays off the loan, the less interest he will pay in the end.

Another way to save money during college is to live at home and commute. If you live in a larger city with a community college or technical school, you can even complete your core classes here. When you complete the general education classes, credits will transfer over to your university of choice and you can complete your degree. Instead of paying for room and board or an apartment, you can live at home and focus on your studies.

College can be affordable, even if the toughest economy.

Living on campus offers a variety of benefits to students. These housing options are closest to campus, but if they are located off-campus free shuttle services are provided from the college to the campus. Living in a dorm or apartment community allow students the opportunity to bond. It is everyone’s first time away from home, so this is where people will build a support system and make lasting friendships. Each floor offers activities to residents to help build these bonds. On-campus services are also offered directly through campus living.

Unlike off-campus apartments, rent is not a concern. The cost of housing is attached to the student’s bill for the semester. Ultimately the student is paying for the cost of living on campus, but it is not a stress each month to assure the student has money to pay rent. The biggest problem with on-campus living is that it is expensive. At a major university like New York’s Columbia University, a year of housing costs as much as $8,580, while at Chicago’s Northwestern University charges up to $9,240 per year. Smaller universities and colleges such as University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee charges as much as $6,080 for a year of housing. College housing is only offered seven months of the year because dorms and apartments are closed during holidays and breaks. This means students can be paying as much as $1,500 a month for a room.

Other cons associated with student housing include:
*Quiet hours every day of the week
*Limited visitor privileges
*Limited parking. Some schools do not allow freshmen to have cars.
*Meal plans are required. This costs thousands of dollars a year.
*If you fail to follow rules, you are kicked out without refund.

Local realtors work with colleges to offer other housing options for students who wish to live off-campus. Though the stress of rent exists, ultimately off-campus living can save a student thousands of dollars a year. The biggest budget saver is that students can purchase their own food, saving money on a food plan. In major cities it can be difficult to find apartments, but the realtors will help place students in apartments with or without roommates. In comparison, an apartment in Milwaukee’s East Side (where UWM is located) costs anywhere from $500 to $800/month depending on the size. This is almost $200 less a month.

Other ways you can save money include:
*Live in neighborhoods near school, but not right beside the college. The further you are from campus, the cheaper apartments are.
*Live with roommates. Choose people you can trust. You can split all the bills down the center, making things less stressful.
*Using a free bus pass to ride to school instead of paying for gas and parking with your car.

Shop around before settling on if student housing or off-campus living is best for your budget. If you found an apartment, do not sign the lease until you are absolutely certain it is the apartment you want to live in. This is a legal document you are responsible for.