It’s a week of decisions, decisions, decisions! We wish everyone luck to those awaiting news on their school of choice! If you’re just now getting started on your research to finding #thebestfit–know that we can help! From reading @thefiratguide to meeting with @icfirat to guide your child in finding the right school with the right culture, environment, education, and passion. #Admissions events may be winding down but you can continue your research with us if you’re still indecisive.

 

Do you know what your school’s policy is in an emergency? Do you ask this question when looking at potential schools?

All schools have safety guidelines they follow. For example, every school has instructions on what to do in emergencies such as a fire, tornado, and earthquakes. But after tragedies like Sandy Hook, Columbine, and most recently Marjory Stoneman Douglas, schools are starting to integrate drills for what to do if there’s a shooting in progress.

The conversation’s changing. It’s not just about guns in schools, but it’s also about the shooters themselves. What programs does you school have in place to help these individuals?

Are your school counselors active in their students day to day lives? Are they easy to talk to?

More and more schools are adopting a zero tolerance bullying policy. This not only helps bring down gun violence, but it also helps students with suicidal thoughts.

While schools have added anti-bullying policies to their student handbooks, these problems can continue to grow and evolve. For example, cyber-bullying has been highlighted lately and has become the “new” way to bully. Social media continues to grow among new generations. Schools and even laws are having to be reformed in order to adapt to this new age of technology.

Contact your schools. These are some standard questions to think about and ask.

• Do they have a gated entrance? Are they adding one?
• Have they thought about adding metal detectors at the entrance?
• Are there any hazing rituals that student athletes partake in?
• Are there any officers on campus?

More and more schools have officers on duty to help keep their schools secure. Each school is different and has different concerns so be sure to think of those unique, but applicable questions.

February is coming to a close and March is upon us but #admissions events are still ongoing! Be sure to check out #TheWoodlandsChristianAcademy and #StStephensEpiscopalSchool’s #admissions events this week. #FindTheBestFit for your child and remember to get @thefiratguide, a great tool to researching schools and what they have to offer.

Today was an important day at Firat Education.

Thanks to many of our students and their peers, we were able to donate 45 ACT and SAT books for our ACT of Kindness Book Drive.

 

Throughout the year, we collect ACT/SAT test prep books donated from students who complete their test preparation with us. In the past, we’ve donated these books to different low-income schools, libraries, and other charities.

It’s one of the ways we try to give back to the community. This year, we also recruited a high school sophomore, Sarita Arsham, to lead our initiative in gathering more test prep materials through social media and community outreach. Sarita volunteered as the liason between Firat Education and our chosen school.

 

With Harvey occurring this past year, we knew resources would be even more limited. There are thousands of students who do not have the means to study for the ACT/SAT. Because of this, most of them will not even have the opportunity to attend college. This is especially true at low-income schools that do not have the appropriate funding to cater to the needs of their students.

Unfortunately, Jane Long Academy in Houston is one of these schools. 99% of their students are on the free/reduced lunch. One of their missions is to provide an environment where students can gain knowledge in college readiness along with high levels of complex thinking and application skills. Due to these goals, we chose Jane Long to be the school we donate our books to.

 

Earlier today,

We met with Keri Wittpenn, Assistant Princiapal at Jane Long Academy, to speak to a junior class about the fundamental differences between the SAT and ACT and how these books can help.

When we visited Jane Long Academy, we were able to put together this video. We are so happy to have been able to help the students at Jane Long Academy, and we are very thankful to Sarita for taking initiative in this effort.

 

 

Remember, ACT of Kindness is an ongoing book drive. We collect materials year round to donate. Stop by and drop off any used/new SAT/ACT books today!

There’s an #admissionsevent almost everyday so be sure to plan your schedule accordingly! Don’t see the school you’re interested on there? Make sure to check our blog every week to learn of upcoming events that may help you #FindTheBestFit for your child. #Admissionsevents are a great way to getting to know the schools you’re interested in and their #applicationprocess.

 

“You are what you eat.” Isn’t that what they say? Most of you have a new year’s resolution to eat healthier. It’s a difficult thing to do especially in February – I’m snacking on some Valentine’s chocolate as I write this.

But it is not impossible. Finding different motivations to eat healthier can make things easier. For example, did you know eating healthier could improve your grades and how you absorb information?

Your body and brain will function best when it has the proper nutrients. The brain uses 20% of glucose, 35% of vitamins/minerals, 40% of water, and 50% of fats in our bodies.

Eating foods with low carb/sugar will get you the best results. Having a chocolate bar will give you a “sugar rush,” but the “after effects” will be additional hunger and fatigue. This rapid decline of energy could lead to a migraine. Consuming foods such fruits/veggies, nuts, lean protein, and water will give your brain the fuel it needs.

Nuts have the essential fats and nutrients recommended. Studies have shown fruits such as apples and blueberries have shown an average increase of 7 points on a test. The reasoning is due to the high levels of acetylcholine which helps improve memory and reduce anxiety. Lean protein such as salmon contains a healthy fat similar to avocados. Omega-3 fatty acids will create more neural pathways in your brain allowing you think faster. Staying hydrated is crucial to refreshing your brain and body.

Your mind will be clear. Your stomach won’t be upset. And your body will be full.

A sweet shortcut to the secret but simple recipe for higher test scores.

#Admissions events are slowly winding down but they’re not over yet! #Application deadlines have been ongoing so be sure to check our blog on a daily basis to make sure you get your documents in on time.

Need an effective strategy? Visit all of the #admissions events that interest you and then read about them in @theFiratGuide. Look at schools from all angles and think of their vision, mission and curriculum offerings to help you determine if they align with the goals you want and have for your child. @theFiratGuide will help you #FindTheBestFit for your child.

Welcome to our second month of our college prep checklist! February is not all about hearts and love and chocolates. It’s also about focusing and making sure you continue the initiatives you started in the new year.

Follow our February College Prep Checklist to keep you consistent and follow up on last month’s important points:

 

1. Have you taken an SAT or ACT Test for practice yet? We recommend taking the official test twice in your junior year and guess what… Here at Firat Education, we offer a FREE SAT/ACT to anyone. Our next 2nd SATurday is on February 10th. Register online here.

 

2. If you have taken a practice test, compare your score with your potential college options’ requirements. See where you measure up. Contact Us: 713-842-1048 if you need help increasing your scores.

 

3. Sort out any last minute details for your spring break college visits.

 

4. Choose teachers for letters of recommendations.

 

5. Remember: SAT test dates include March 10th, May 5th, and June 2nd. ACT test dates include February 10th and April 14th.

 

Following our checklists will give you an edge when you start applying later this year. Follow us on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) in order to see more blog posts, reminders, study tips, and more!

Check out this week’s #admissions events to plan out your schedule! Plenty of #CampusVisits and #OpenHouses to attend. Remember every school featured on our blogs is also spotlighted in @TheFiratGuide with an analysis on each and what they have to offer.

Did you check out any #admissions events this past week? Check our weekly blog to plan out your week to make sure you visit all of the schools you’re interested in. It’s important to be aware of deadlines to make sure all of your necessary documents are submitted on time. ‘Tis the season of #DeadlineDays!