5 Best Programming Languages for Kids

Kids Coding Languages

Coding for kids can be hard to navigate — especially when it comes to choosing a first coding language to learn. With so many different programming languages available, where should you start?

We’re here to help make that decision easier!

From teaching coding classes for kids ages 8-18, we’ve learned tips and tricks for choosing what language a child should start with. Read more about our top 5 recommended programming languages for kids, to help you decide which one is best for your student.

Block-Based Computer Programming Languages

For young kids in the 8-11 age group, a text-based programming language may not be a great starting point. Block-based programming languages instead offer a way to learn basic coding and problem-solving without the need to worry about syntax, error management, and other more complicated programming concepts.

These visual programming languages offer drag-and-drop interfaces where your student can assemble their app using building blocks instead of text, similar to legos. Often, these interfaces even work right in your web browser!

Scratch, Snap, and Blockly are all examples of block-based coding languages. While Blockly is great for adults and coding real-world tools, we recommend Scratch and Snap to kids for more intuitive and visually-engaging learning.

1. Scratch

Scratch is an excellent way for kids in the 8-11 age group to start coding. It was developed in 2003 as an open-source project at MIT. 17 years later, Scratch is still one of the most popular block-based coding languages, and its online community has continued to grow — making any problem you run into readily answerable with online Scratch tutorials or a simple Google search.

A fun game coded with Scratch blocks and characters!

▶ Read more: What is Scratch: Easy Coding for Kids 8-11

Scratch’s popularity is largely thanks to how it allows kids to create interactive video games, animations, and creative stories with a large variety of background images and characters. Kids can jump right into creating fun and engaging coding projects, while also building life skills like creativity, storytelling, and logical thinking! That's why our two Scratch coding courses for kids focus on making games in Scratch to help kids have fun while learning basic coding.

Another advantage of Scratch is how readily accessible it is. You can use it in your web browser or it can be downloaded onto several devices. This includes Android (tablet only), macOS, Microsoft Windows, and ChromeOS. The only limitations are that it isn’t available as an app for iPad or iOS or Android smartphones.

▶ Try it: How to Make a Game on Scratch: Step by Step for Beginners 8+

2. Snap

Snap is a variant of Scratch, developed by UC Berkeley. It was built to include some more advanced programming concepts, and thus acts as an excellent intermediate step if Scratch is too simple, but your student is not yet ready to advance beyond block-based coding. On top of that, Snap apps can be converted to Javascript, Python, and other text-based coding languages — further simplifying the transition to these languages.

Because Snap is newer and less widely-used than Scratch, there is a significant disadvantage in terms of online resource availability. You can still find help with Snap, but it may take more effort than it would with Scratch.

Text-Based Computer Programming Languages

Children in the 11+ age range are likely ready to start with a text-based coding language. Compared to block-based coding, text-based languages require that kids be more comfortable with a keyboard and have a better understanding of logical thinking and high-level arithmetic concepts.

For kids that are ready for them, text-based languages offer the ability to tackle a wider range of projects and gain a deeper understanding of computer science concepts. Text-based coding languages are also a natural next step for students already versed in block-based coding.

Python, Java, CSS/HTML, Javascript, Swift, and Ruby are all examples of text-based coding languages.

3. Python

For your student’s first introduction to text-based coding languages, you can’t go wrong with Python coding. It’s become one of the most popular coding languages for both beginners and professional coders. This makes it not just a good learning language, but also a great introduction to real-world coding.

A text-based Python with Turtle project for designing an ice cream graphic animation.

When just starting out, Python does not require an understanding of data types, memory management, and other more difficult computer science topics — making it a great alternative to Java, C++, or other more advanced coding languages. Additionally, compared to most other coding languages, the syntax of Python code is intended to be more similar to English.

▶ Read more: What is Python Coding? | Coding for Kids Ages 11+

The Turtle library makes Python an even more powerful language for those graduating from block-based coding. We teach Python with Turtle courses to beginners 11+ because it provides a strong visual component that keeps students engaged, empowers them with artistic creativity, and makes the transition to text-based coding easy and fun.

▶ Try it: How to Make Fireworks in Python Turtle | Beginner Python Tutorial

4. HTML/CSS

HTML and CSS coding allow students to explore building websites and web applications.

For children that have a strong interest in design, HTML and CSS may provide an exciting opportunity to get an early glimpse of web development and web applications.

HTML is the code that most web pages are written in, and defines how the information on a web page is structured. The CSS code then specifies how the web page looks: including colors, fonts, and other design aspects of the page!

Together, these languages give all the basic skills that you need to make a basic web page — making them perfect for students that enjoy art and creativity.

5. Javascript

Another cornerstone of web development, Javascript is typically used alongside HTML and CSS — defining how the website behaves and how users can interact with it. Although not quite as easy as Python, Javascript’s syntax is still easier than most advanced coding languages.

As with HTML and CSS, this may be a good option for kids that show a strong interest in web applications and design.

Next Steps

With a wide-range of block-based and text-based coding languages to choose from, deciding on a coding language for your student can be daunting. We hope that this information has provided you with a better understanding of the landscape, including some of the best beginner options for block-based and text-based programming languages.

A Juni Instructor teaches Scratch to a student.

As always, Juni Learning is here to help, regardless of what stage your student is at. Check out our coding for kids curriculum or contact our Admissions Team to learn which coding languages and courses are best for your student to start coding!

This article originally appeared on junilearning.com.

Creating an Art Portfolio for College Applications

How to Create an Art Portfolio

Are you a student who aspires to major in the arts? Join us as we give you advice on submitting your portfolio to colleges and universities.

Creating an Art Portfolio for College Applications

If you are beginning your college applications, you’ll know that you will need to submit application essays and letters of recommendation, however, if you are applying to an art program, you will also need to submit an art portfolio. Your portfolio is the most crucial part of the application process for those looking to enter a creative arts program. If you want to get into an art school you will need to submit an outstanding portfolio. Join us as we discuss what an art portfolio is, what art programs are looking for in a portfolio, and how to create an art portfolio.

An Art Portfolio is: 

Various personal artistic materials curated to be presented to an admissions team for acceptance into an art program. This work can include drawings, 2D/3D animation, singing, song writing,poetry, and other multiple art forms. Your portfolio will decide if you are a good fit for the specific school and program you are applying to. Art portfolios are often a requirement to apply at many colleges and universities around the nation. Materials in the portfolio can range from different specialty areas such as:

• Apparel Decision

• Architecture

• Art Education

• Art History

• Ceramics

• Film

• Fine Arts

• Graphic Design

• Interior Design

• Painting

• Photography

• Printmaking

• Sculpture

• Writing including

  • Poetry

  • Fiction  writing

  • Screenwriting

  • Songwriting

However, not every student applying to these programs will need to create a portfolio so always double-check the requirements before committing.

What should I include in my portfolio?

Simply put, schools are interested in admitting students who create memorable art. The following qualities are kept in mind when admission officers are making their decisions:

• Technical Ability- Admission officers are looking to see how good you are as an artist. Technical ability consists of the student having the skill to hone certain art principals. Your portfolio can not have any mistakes. Art Schools want to see physical examples of your artwork.

• Variation and Adaptability- College admission officers want to see which students can adapt their skills to different fields in the art. Being adaptable and having a variety of art  is a huge plus that admission officers look for. Students should not be afraid to experiment with different art forms. Students that use different forms show their willingness to learn.

• A Distinctive Style Unique to You - Your art portfolio should be based on your unique personality and  life experiences. Develop artwork that is uniquely YOU, that you love to create, and shares your vision; these will help you stand out from other applicants. Your artistic skills will not mean anything if you mimic others’ portfolios. 

Developing your Art Portfolio

First and foremost, develop a timeline that will help you get your work together in a timely manner. The process of creation can be a timely process so  students should give themselves at least a  year to curate their portfolio. Spend additional time researching the requirements of the art programs you are interested in and pay close attention to what they are asking for. If you don't follow all their instructions, they will not accept you. View previous artwork. Viewing previous portfolios of other students can give you some added inspiration. To receive feedback do not be afraid to talk to your art teacher or close friends. Search the internet or Google "art portfolio examples" if you do not have anyone in your network who has submitted a portfolio recently.  Use previous portfolios as a way to steer yourself in a specific direction but never seek to use someone else’s material or copy the work in any way. Use your experience as a way to develop your unique portfolio. 

Selecting Your Artwork

You will need 10-20 art pieces to develop your art portfolio. These pieces can be work you have done in school or they can be pieces specifically created for the art portfolio. Choose the work that best represents you.

Some schools request that your pieces should be work that you recently completed. If this is the case, then the artwork you choose should have been created within the last year or few months. Your recent work is most likely to be your very best.

Important qualities for your art portfolio:

Variation of skill- Some programs  want students to focus on submitting the art form they plan to study, while others are interested in seeing multiple diverse art forms. If you choose to submit one art form then be sure to show that how that specific style can be used in different ways. If you choose to submit a variety of art forms, then share a portfolio with diverse skill sets. This can include still photo, drawing, photoshop, or your use of different tools. The more skills you can showcase in your portfolio, the more impressed admissions officers will be. 

Add artwork that uses direct observation- Students should consider curating pieces that use  direct observation such as  architecture, still forms, landscapes, etc. It’s really anything that is visually appealing . Direct observation requires a lot of skill and can be considered more difficult to create well. Art programs may be more interested in direct observation because of the level of detail required to create it. Admission officers often want to see how you depict the world around you. Some students choose not to include direct observation pieces in their portfolio, but doing so may help you stand out. Again, if you include several direct observations, then you can choose a variety of artforms other than just drawings.

Display Individuality- Your work should not be a duplicate of another's work. Your portfolio should be based on your own creativity and life experience. Your work should show what makes you different  from other students. Developing high quality original work is a great way to stand out from other portfolios the school receives.

There are numerous ways to show your uniqueness in your art portfolio so be creative and use your imagination. For example, you can  show a theme across your pieces or display your pieces in a unique way. We hope you have completed enough pieces that have allowed you to develop your skill(s) in a particular area. Whether it is creating abstract paintings, photoshopping, drawing, or photography, create what you know you can do well. Having a style will help you stand out. 

The Last Steps to Follow- Your portfolio should be error-free. Students should include their name, name of the school, the date, a title and a description of the piece. Within the application, it will often require a short description of what the piece is about for you. Here are some steps to consider before you submit your portfolio:

• Do not take photos on a phone.  If you do not have a high-quality camera, ask your art teacher if they have one you can borrow.

• The picture may need editing so that it shows the artwork at its best.  Crop your photos correctly as most schools require you to show the photograph edges. 

• Your art work should be clearly seen.

• Glare should not be seen in any photos.

• Your art work should be transferred with no damage, and dry.

• Get rid of the frames for viewing.

• Mailing your portfolio is an alternative option. Use it if the school requires you to create a piece for them.

Don’t be afraid to ask for criticism

Ask other people for their opinions on your art pieces. Ask for feedback as you create your portfolio. Three of the best sources for receiving feedback are:

An Art Instructor

One of the first people you should ask is your art instructor. Art teachers may have created portfolios in the past. They can help you select pieces that will impress college officers. Feedback can range from looking at your artwork to making suggestions.

National Portfolio Days

National Portfolio Days take place around the country at various undergrad and grad schools. Students can learn different art skills in addition to showing their work to receive feedback from a spokesperson at art schools and colleges. Students can potentially receive constructive criticism from schools you want to apply to and ask them questions about the requirements. 

People close to you

Do not feel ashamed talking to your parents, family members, and friends. Tell them to give you constructive criticism on your artwork. You have to feel confident showing your portfolio to other people. 

Students should attend this as a junior, then as a senior, when you have made progress on the portfolio.

Dealing with Home School Misconceptions

Misconceptions of Homeschooling

If you decide to homeschool your child, other parents will question you. The team at Link will give you homeschooling tips and ways to respond to parents with misconceptions of your decision.

Anyone who homeschools their children will likely deal with pushback from others who may not understand their decision. There are misconceptions about homeschooling, such as, the condition of homeschooling, and comparing students to those in the public school system. Join us as we offer parents tips on managing to misunderstand, and in turn, resolve the misconceptions of homeschooling.

Be Firm On Your Homeschooling Decision

Inform people you are homeschooling your student- Parents do not need to educate others on their homeschooling decision, however, people will likely ask you questions. Whether you are a novice or an expert in homeschooling, you may need to respond to nay-sayers regarding your decision to homeschool your children.

• If you have a personal reason for a student to be homeschooled, you can use a simple explanation for those who ask. For instance, “We as a family were not happy with the way our child was being taught so we decided to homeschool our child.”

• Some people are unfamiliar with the differences between the public school and a homeschooling system.

 With most students experienced homeschooling in some way. First time homeschooling parents have had a tough time keeping an eye on them while being up-to-date with their school work. However, parents can use pandemic pods, where they can hire a tutor to teach them various subjects during the quarantine. 

Find a homeschooling community. Look in your area for support groups within the community. Parents can meet with other guardians and learn how they had to handle being a homeschooling parent.

• Parents can advise other parents that are new to homeschooling. Getting insight from other people can help prepare you to face nay-sayers.

• Joining a homeschooling support group can be crucial if you need to ask questions like selecting a schedule.

• By using The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)  you can search for groups within your community

Hearing others- You should listen to the opinions of others even though you do not need to justify your decision to homeschool your child.

• If a conversation starts to get heated you should be tolerant and move your conversation away from this topic.

 Realize the restriction of a conversation- If you deal with an aggressive person who is rude, then you should be respectful and leave.

• People have the right to be opposed to your homeschooling option. If a person does not agree with your decision, you do not have to interact with that person.

• If you deal with someone that is very emotional you can respond simply, ”My family and I made this decision for our child. If you can not respect this decision then we should deter the conversation to something else.”

How can you explain homeschooling to other people?

Be prepared with homeschooling facts- Homeschooling misconceptions come from those unfamiliar with the system. Do your research! 

• The National Home Education Research Institute, HSLDA, and the Coalition for Responsible Home Education are useful tools to research homeschooling and also finding support groups.

Homeschooled students can still socialize- One of the top misunderstandings is that homeschooled children do not have the same chances as students in the public school system. Individuals might ask, “How are your children sociable?” You can share ways how you have involved your student in certain groups or activities.

• Children can spend time with others their age. Your child can enroll in a community sports league or partake in religious activities.

• Your student will not be a hermit and it is unlikely for them to deal with being bullied.

Share experience with others. Or don’t!- Discuss your reasons for your homeschooling decision if someone is curious about the homeschooling system.

Eliminating the Misconceptions of Homeschooling

Acknowledge homeschooling diversity- 2.5 million homeschool children are in the United States. These students are from different backgrounds and have different experiences.

• There is no one type of family that homeschools their child. People have their ideas of what homeschooling is.

• There are various ways to homeschool your child. Homeschool services can vary from virtual online programs to small-in-person homeschooling groups.

Have your students get involved in the learning process- As your students reach middle or high school, their educational views, and how they learn can fluctuate. If your student is adamant about not wanting to be homeschooled, then consider transitioning to different schooling options.

• Take your student to the library and have them pick out books that interest them. Involve them in some parts of your schedule.

• Have your student discuss what they are passionate about and use that to find outlets for their specific interests. For instance, if your student enjoys animals, then take them to the zoo or have them shadow a veterinary assistant. Your student should always have an avenue to explore areas that interest them.

Acknowledge the many opportunities for homeschooled students- Parents have a variety of services and schedules to select from should they decide to homeschool their students.

• Homeschooled children can be part of a sports team and partake in a myriad of in-person extracurricular activities.

• Homeschooled children are just as likely to be admitted into college and, graduate schools, and often test better than students in the public school system.

Circumvent haughtiness- The decision to homeschool your student is your prerogative. This decision is your own.

• Just because you decide to homeschool your student does not make you a good or bad parent.

• Not everyone agrees with homeschool. Be aware of other individuals’ pain and concerns.

• Always be respectful. People should always respect each other’s decisions when it comes to homeschooling.

Encourage a Student to focus on their studies’

Motivating Students

Trying to motivate a student to study can be challenging, but that doesn't have to be the case all the time. The team at Link will give you tips to help your student stay motivated.

It's tough enough for students to get motivated to study, let alone helping a friend or colleague. Helping them gain confidence through positive feedback and reinforcement can encourage a student to hit the books. The team at Link will give you tips to get your student motivated to study.

Use Positive Psychology

Know the specifics of what is keeping them from studying- Most times, people will feel discouraged at something that seems too difficult for them. Ask questions and listen to them talk about what’s hard for them when it comes to studying and how you or others can assist them.

• You can ask the student questions such as (1)what do you feel unsure about? (2)Do you know anyone who could help you understand the material better? (3) or Do you need me to help you keep focused while you study?

Have students talk about their past accomplishments in school- Students have faced multiple stressful events this year and are still managing to come out on the other side. Start a conversation by saying, “How did you prepare for the last hard exam you passed?”

• Throughout their studying, use positive reinforcement to remind them that they can overcome their obstacles.

Have students write down their intended goals- Ask them what they want to achieve from studying. Then list the smaller goals they want to achieve along the way to reach bigger ones.

• If possible, have a student break down their goals to their smallest steps, and begin helping them work through them.

Help the student maintain motivation

Give rewards for reaching goals- Have the student decide what they will earn for reaching their study goals. Watch an episode or two of their favorite show, play a video game, make their favorite meal, etc. Have them write it down or post it on a corkboard.

• Think about having smaller rewards for completing smaller goals along the way, such as a 10-15 minute study break after working for 30 minutes. You can even have kind reminders of the rewards throughout the study session as motivation.

Separate the difficult subjects- If a student has a class that is giving them trouble, study the material for shorter amounts of time, so they do not get overwhelmed.

Have students ask questions about the material- Write down questions they want to know about before they start reviewing the material. When they finish, have them answer questions to see if they have learned it.

• If the student can't answer the questions, focus on those areas.

Have them teach their friend (s) the material- Once a student knows the material, they can take a turn to teach another person the material.

• If you're unfamiliar with the material, see how well your friend can teach them. Ask questions to have them clarify the material they are reviewing.

Form a study group- Even if it is not a familiar subject, studying with other people can motivate them to work better than by themselves.

• If a student needs help while studying, they can try working with classmates who are studying the same material.

• Avoid studying with friends that will serve as a distraction.

With most students being home-schooled due to the pandemic, it can be challenging for the parents. However, they can set up a study group during the quarantine. If a student needs help, have them work with classmates who are studying the same material.

Find a knowledgeable person interested in the subject- They can provide answers to questions a student has and provide unique feedback that may help them understand the material.

• The teacher of the course is a guaranteed resource for the information they need. Schedule a time to meet with them during their office hours to re-review information that may be unclear to a student.

Teach aspects of their life with the applied material- Research ways in which our daily lives involve the material they are learning. If they need motivation, remind them how the material can play a role in everyday life. It may get them more interested in learning about it.

• Of course, ask the teacher if they can site examples of the use of that material.

Associate studying as something the student wants to do- Practice having the student go through these steps when they study, separate rewards for accomplishing goals and have the students work in groups to stay motivated. If a friend has an interest in the material, they will see studying as less of a hassle, wanting to learn more about it.

Staying Motivated for College Admissions

For high school students interested in going to college, we suggest following these essay prompts to get you ready for the college application process. Prepare yourself for your future. A student attending high school is a transition; attending college is a big transition. If you want to attend college, we suggest planning during your high school years. Prepare for your future!

Researching Scholarships

Applying for Scholarships

Are you concerned about paying for college? If so, don't worry. We'll give you tips on what to look for in scholarships and suggestions how to apply for them.

How to Find and Apply for Scholarships

The most daunting task of attending college can be paying for it. Researching scholarships is not tough but applying for them can be tedious. For profit and non-profit companies offer hundreds of grants and give millions of dollars in scholarships every year. A student often needs specific grades and exam scores to qualify while others can qualify you based on their experience(s) or identities. Join us as we give you tips on what to look for when applying for scholarships.

How do I Start Searching for Scholarship Options?

List out your hobbies and interests- Even though many scholarships are meritorious (awarded based entirely on your merits), there are other attainable scholarships meant for  students who have certain interests or participate in particular activities inside and outside of the classroom.

• Create a resume with all your past and existing extracurricular activities as there are likely scholarships available for many of those pursuits. If you belong to any local, national, or international organizations check their website for college aid, scholarships, and/or grants.

• Reflect on your strengths, talents, and expertise. For instance, if you enjoy writing, you can include “creative writing” “or short stories” as an interest on your resume. Be as specific as possible to identify what you like to write. Such as short stories or poetry writing.

• Some hobbies and interests may need you to give samples of your work if you are applying for their scholarship(s). For example, if you want a scholarship in art, you may need to submit an art portfolio.

Jot down your identities and communities- Scholarship affiliations can be based on your religion, gender identification, race, origin, employment status, sexual orientation, and many other identities.

• Jot down a list of people you know who can serve as references based on a specific association.  For example, if you want a religious scholarship, you may need a letter of recommendation from the pastor of the church you are associated with. 

• Check in with parents and guardians’ employers about scholarships. If you work part time, ask your employer if they offer scholarships.

• Be truthful about your affiliations. You can get into big trouble if you are dishonest about your affiliations with a group to which you have no connection. 

Do your research before you head into your senior year- Most scholarships have early deadlines, specifically those that apply to your cost of attendance toward any college. During your junior year of high school you should start doing your research on the potential scholarships of interest. 

• Go to the reference section of your local library to look for scholarships. You can find qualified scholarships by talking to the research librarian. 

Speak to the guidance counselor at your high school- High school counselors may be able to guide you through identifying the right scholarships for you. They can also assist you with  scholarships that may take a long time to do on your own. 

• If you attend a large high school with additional resources, you might run into a counselor who solely focuses on college admission and/or financial aid. 

Contact the financial aid offices- Colleges and universities are consistently offering institutional scholarships. If you fill out a financial aid form, you can be automatically entered for some of these scholarships. As you complete the application you will likely specify a list of your interests, affiliations, socio-economic standing and more .

• The financial aid page on a school's website will likely have the most up-to-date information on various available scholarships.

• Check for scholarship opportunities at institutions you are interested in applying to. 

Go online to find scholarships- There are scholarship databases provided by government or independent organizations. Use keywords based on connections and interests to search through these databases. Here are some websites that you should take into consideration.

• https://www.fastweb.com/ : Fast Web is your one-stop-shop when it comes to looking for scholarships. You can also look for part-time jobs to help you pay for tuition and college expenses. 

• https://finaid.org/ : FinAid.org includes aid for students with dubious hobbies, interests, and connections.

• https://www.scholarships.com/ : You can search for scholarships through certain factors such as state, college name, college type, or your major.

Ask if religious or community organizations offer scholarships- You might find a scholarship available at your church or local organizations. Communicate with the head of the organization to navigate their specific process.

• Even if your group or agency does not offer scholarships, they can steer you in the right direction.

How to Request Scholarships

Search for pre-requisites and qualifications- A scholarship has specific prerequisites and instructions that students should follow. Some applications may be alike but they will not be the same. Many applications require students to develop an essay given a prompt, while other schools require a letter of recommendation.

• Group similar scholarships together so you can complete the documents with related deadlines. Completing multiple applications with similar deadlines will help you complete them on time.

• Have a whiteboard, spreadsheet, or checklist to list qualifications such as essays you need to write, letters of recommendation you must receive, and other documents that need submitting.

Ask teachers and community leaders to write you letters of recommendation- Approach  the instructor as soon as possible so they can have enough time to work on it.

• People should know you well before they can write your letter of recommendation. A recommendation from a well-known teacher or counselor should be ideal.

• If you are applying for a scholarship related to an interest or group, make sure the person who writes the recommendation knows about you, your affiliations, and your achievements. For instance, if you apply for a religious scholarship, you might ask for a letter from a youth group leader. 

Develop your scholarship application essays- Many applications require you to write an essay describing your experiences and how you stand out from other applicants for the scholarship. Be transparent, and avoid embellishing any experiences or accomplishments.

• The essay should describe you in detail.

• Developing an outline will help the essay stay cohesive.

• Have an instructor read your essay before you turn it in.

• Write the essay in several drafts before you have the perfect essay.

Apply before the deadline- Get your application ready to go before the deadline this way you'll have ample time to polish and make final changes before you send it off.

• If you submit an electronic application, don't wait until the last day. Computer problems or network issues could cause you to be disqualified from the process.

Applying for scholarships while you are in college- Stay in touch with the financial aid department. There are consistent scholarships available for students in college.

• For instance, aid is available to students graduating within a year. Scholarships and grants can help you shield the graduation costs. 

• Scholarships are available to students that want to major in a specific subject. You should declare a major by your sophomore year.

Watch out for Scholarship Scams

Watch out for guarantee claims- No scholarship is guaranteed, no matter how qualified you are. Many other students may be just as qualified in the application pool. If you are dealing with an agency that offers you a guaranteed amount of money, this might be a scam

• Most scammers will use simple, one-page applications to target students who are exhausted after writing essays. 

Disregard sales tactics- Authorized companies have no reason to pressure you. If the company uses phrases such as hurry up, or restricting space, the company could be scamming you.

• A sales rep can say you just won a scholarship, but there is a problem. You need to attend a workshop or pay a fee. Another red flag!

Check for spelling and grammatical errors- Communication from an authorized scholarship agency would be looked over. These signs can lead to a scam.

• Suspicious or shoddy formatting can be a sign that the email is from a scammer rather than an authorized company. 

Check the background of the company before giving your personal information- Most of the scammers will mimic an authorized scholarship agency and send an email asking for more information before submitting the application.  Before you click on any links in the email do some research on the company to make sure that the company is authorized. 

• The emails sent to you may be an attempt to take your identity.

How to Earn College Credits in High School

Earning College Credits

Are you a College-bound student that wants to get a head start? If so, we'll give you tips on how to earn college credit during your high school years.

Many students attempt earning college credits while they are still in high school, so they can decrease much of the costs of tuition. Luckily, there are a variety of options for students who are looking to earn college credits. Join us as we discuss with you helpful tips to earn college credit before you graduate high school. 

Enroll in College Credit Courses

AP Courses- The College Board sponsors the Advanced Placement (AP) program which allows students to enroll in courses their high school offers where the work is college-level. Towards the end of the school year, you have the choice of taking the AP Exam for the subject matter you reviewed through the College Board. AP Exams are scored on a scale of 1 to 5. Many U.S. colleges grant credit and/or advanced placement (that means they let you skip the equivalent course once you get to college) for scores of 3 and above.  If you get a high enough score, then you will have earned the credit for that class. 

• College credit for an AP Exam can vary from one university to another. Many schools also have policies surrounding the amount of credit a student can bring with them from AP Courses.

• AP Exam Subjects range and can include: AP Studio Art, AP US History, AP Language (Chinese, Spanish, etc.), AP Computer Science, and more. Even though your high school may offer many AP classes, keep in mind that there is a restriction on how many courses a student can take per semester and school year. 

Check out the various subjects that will suit your needs before you take an AP class.

IB Program- The International Baccalaureate (IB) allows students to take classes to earn college credit. Similar to the AP, once a student completes the IB Course, they will then need to take an exam from that specified school. 

• IB Programs are not available at all schools. To enroll in an IB Program, locate schools in your area that are offering this program.

If you are a student that loves education and would like to teach students overseas? Learn about the benefits and subjects offered through the IB program.

CLEP exam- CLEP, also known as the College-Level Examination Project are tests that demonstrate your knowledge of a particular subject. This test will see if you are a master in the subject.  In total, there are 33 CLEP exams that high school students take that cover subjects within their first year of college.

• Around 3,000 schools offer this exam, and the college credit you receive depends on the score of the test. 

Before you take the CLEP Exam, take into account the subjects. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!

Partake in the ECE’s- The ECE’s also known as the Excelsior College Examinations are college entrance exams. Students do not have to take a class, but rather prove to application officers that they have full comprehension of the particular material. These exams are taken at testing centers and the subjects may vary. Several colleges accept ECE scores.  Do your due diligence to find out if the colleges you are applying to will accept these test scores. The subjects vary and are taken at a test center. 

Enrolling in the College Equivalent Seminars in High School 

Taking college-level and summer classes in high school- High school juniors and seniors are encouraged to partake in college classes. High schools often collaborate with a university or local community college to offer these courses. Availability is limited because, in order to offer these classes, a high school teacher must be certified to teach the specific college-level course. Often, the student does not even need to drive to a college to take the course. 

• You will not have to pay for the AP Class. However, you should consult with the school district regarding the payment. 

• Double-check which colleges may offer these specific credits before you partake in the program.

Partake in a dual-enrollment program- Some high schools partner with colleges to help students participate in dual-enrollment classes. Due to the pandemic, students will have to take classes online through the school instead of in-person at the campus.

E-learning courses- Many students decide to take college-level online courses. Students who partake in these accredited courses during their junior or senior year can earn credits while still in high school. 

• Research a school that is recognized in online courses. Check the U.S. News and World Report rankings of online schools.

Get Advice from people on earning college credit

Speak to your guidance counselor- Talking to your guidance counselor before deciding your approach to earning college credit. Counselors can help you decide on your route depending on which schools you are interested in applying to. 

• While teachers or a principal are good people to ask for advice, your college guidance questions. It Will not be answered in a precise manner if you talked to your college counselor.

List the colleges that you are interested in applying to- Your best option is to keep a written or electronic list of all the colleges that you are interested in attending. Research the Standards for acceptance to those specified colleges. Knowing what they will expect will help you make the right choices.  

• You do not want to put your eggs in one basket. Focus on the colleges that will suit your needs and wants.

Speak to a college admissions officer directly- If you are looking to earn college credits we suggest that you speak to an application officer from your schools of interest. Know about the school’s credit transferring process. 

• No one will know a school’s policies on credit transfer more than the source. Calling an admissions officer and simply asking them 

• Even if you are a freshman, it’s never too early to figure out the admission policies and requirements for the specified schools. 

How to Request a Letter of Recommendation through E-mail

Letter of Recommendation

Are you looking to get a letter of recommendation from teachers or counselors through email? If so, Link will give you tips on how to ask for and submit your online letter on time.

A Letter of Recommendation is requested because it allows others to advocate for a student’s mission. Of course this would apply if you’re applying for a scholarship, degree, or a job, when you need to ask for a recommendation from a professor or previous employer. If you need to ask for one by email, the team at Link Educational Institute will give you steps on how to request a letter of recommendation.

Preparing Your Request

Confirm the application requirements- If you're going to get a letter of recommendation, you need to make sure what its needed and where it's going. These letters are kept confidential so the recipient will need to know where to send the letter of recommendation. You DO NOT want to give the recipient incorrect information. Double-check the application instructions and deadlines so you can provide adequate time for someone to write your letter.

• Provide the recipient with a pre-stamped, pre-addressed envelope, if a hard-copy of the letter needs to be mailed.

Selecting the correct person- Before you ask a professor or previous employer for a recommendation, you should consider your relationship with them. Choose someone you get along with and have formed a good connection. Categorize professors or employers who recognize your accomplishments and seem interested in supporting in your career. Whether you receive good grades, assisted your development, or received a raise, they should be the first people on your list.

• If you want to get a letter of recommendation from someone then you must be clear and upfront. Don't hide the request under the pretense of meeting or a coffee chat. Be understanding and remind them that they can refuse without damaging the relationship.

Select the right time to make the request- Provide more than enough time when making your request. You think they need a month or two? Professors receive many requests around the end of the semester or during the college application process. Make your request long before the application deadline, to give your professor, time to draft your recommendation letter.

Writing the Request

Introduce yourself- Besides mentioning your greeting, you need to mention your name. The first paragraph should remind the recipient of who you are. This method depends on how close you were with the recipient, and the last time you spoke.

• If you want to send the request to a professor, outline the time you spent with them throughout a semester. Mention the grade you received and the obstacles you experience. Here's an example: " Dear Professor X, I took your biology class last semester. Even though it was challenging, I always appreciated how available you were and how you helped me understand the mistakes I made.”

• When talking to a previous employer, the greeting will focus on projects you've worked on or responsibilities given to you. If you can recall any anecdotes, include them in the recommendation. Here's an example: "Dear Mr. Z, My name is John Doe, and I worked with you on the latest merger at ABC Company. I always appreciated the opportunity to learn about making meaningful change in the corporate world.

Outline the reasons for choosing them- Communicate to the recipient the reasons you're asking them for a recommendation. Explain to them why you value their opinion and respect the qualifications. The objective is to convey to the recipient why they're suited for the recommendation.

• Here's an example if the recipient is a professor: “As the department chair, you helped me in my progress throughout my major, and assisted me when the subject got tough. Your position, as well as the close attention you paid to my academic career, make you an ideal person to write a great letter of recommendation for me. “

• Here's an example if the recipient is an employer: "As my supervisor, you provided me feedback that helped me along with my professional career. I believe you’re suited to write a great letter of recommendation for me. “

Mention to the recipient you won't be reading the letter

A professor or employer might feel the need to enhance the letter if they know you'll read it. Recipients may simply be uncomfortable when writing the letter. Let the recipient know that they can send the letter of recommendation directly, bypassing you.

Give the recipients a way out

Don't write your request assuming the recipient will agree to write a letter of recommendation. There are reasons why a professor or previous employer might not be able or willing to write the letter. You have to respect this. At the end of the letter, mention that you understand if they can't complete the request for any reason.

Sending The Request

Confirm the receiver's email address- Drafting the request won't mean much if it doesn't end up in the right location. Confirm the recipient's contact information. If the recipient is a former professor, you can find the contact information on the school's website. Otherwise, ask your acquaintances or the recipient directly for their email address.

Be prepared for a back and forth- The recommendation request should be short on purpose. The objective is to convince your professor or employer to agree to write a letter. You don't need to add crucial information in your first contact. Answer any questions or concerns the recipient may have as soon as possible. If you received an email from the recipient and it sits in your mailbox for a long time, you may not get your letter in time.

Send a Thank You Card- Thank your professor or employer if they agree to write a letter of recommendation for you. Your recipient has done this favor that will advance your professional or academic career. Wait a week or two before sending the note, the recipients will be done with the letter and will appreciate this gesture.

What to keep in mind before you Request a Letter

Before requesting a letter, students need to take the following considerations into account. First, students need to know about college application deadlines. You need to know which deadline will work for you as you submit your application. Second, you want to make sure if the college you're applying to will still accept standardized test scores. Follow up with the specified college (s) and admission officers to see if they still need submitted test scores.

UPDATE - Early Decision Deadlines for Colleges with ED

Colleges with Early Decision

We'll discuss what Early Decisions are and whether you should apply for them.

If you're applying for an Early Decision, you've accomplished something rare- you know where you want to go to college. We'll provide the Deadlines and learn everything you need to know about applying early decision for your dream school.

What you need to know about Early Decision

Early Decision is an option that it's binding when it comes to applying to college. You should apply for this option if you're 100% sure you want to go to a particular school and will enroll regardless of any other acceptances or their financial aid offer. If you go in the direction of Early Decision, you'll sign a binding agreement statement to enroll. Some colleges with Early Decision require signatures. Colleges with Early Decisions require your parents and school counselor to sign the form. You can find this statement through the Common Application or a school's application form. An Early Decision may or may not have an Early Deadline. The deadlines are in November, usually the 1st or the 15th. The admission decisions are in December. Some schools offer Early Decision II. Early Decision II is still binding, but the deadline is pushed forward, usually in January. Applicants that decide on a specific college, but could benefit from a few more months to prepare their applications, should apply for this option. College applicants who apply EDII will get an admission decision earlier than usual, typically in February.

Regardless if you apply for Early Decision I or II, all ED applicants have to accept their offers and send in deposits quickly after notification, rather than waiting until May 1st, which is the national response date. If you're applying for Early Decision 1, you have to prepare an application by the November deadline. Let's look at a timeline for gathering your college application materials.

Should I move towards applying for Early Action or Regular Decision? How is it different from Regular Decision?

As an upcoming college freshman, you will have to deal with college application deadlines. Let’s discuss the difference between an Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD). Early Action consists of a student that has been admitted to a school but CAN change their minds and decision on attending. Regular Decision is the original process where students apply for college. They have to go through the application process and wait on a response from the college admissions officers. If you want to go the route of Regular Decision you would go through the original application process. You can take your time and think things through.

ED vs. RD vs ED I vs ED II

If you’re a new student applying for college, you should take into account deadlines that you should follow. Below is an infographic that students need to look at before applying to their specific college.

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The Timeline for Early Decision

Students who apply for Early Decision are excited about attending their school of choice. To make it happen, you need to submit a spectacular application. Students need to prep months in advance or a year to take the SAT/ACT Test. If the Early Decision deadline is in November, then your last opportunity to take the SAT or ACT will be either September or October. You will not be able to view your scores before deciding to send them to any specific colleges. Test early and have your scores submitted by the end of your junior year. Ask your junior year teachers for recommendations at the end of your junior year; counselors included. Ask by October 1st. Before you send your transcript, give your high school a few weeks to a month's notice. Finally, you’ll have to submit a form and pay a small fee.

Work on your personal and supplemental essay over the summer before your senior year. Developing a personal essay is a process. Give yourself time to brainstorm, draft, receive feedback, and revise. Spend September and October, filling out your application, writing about your extracurricular activities, and proofreading any grammatical errors or typos. As you plan and prepare your application, you should be good to go for the Early Decision deadline.

If you're applying for Early Decision II, you'll have more available test dates to take the SAT or ACT. You can send your mid-year senior grades on the transcript. Waiting for ED II can be a good option if you're not satisfied with your academic records and test scores and you could present a stronger candidacy in January. Now that you know, the Early Decision application process, let's look at the deadlines of these popular schools. Some schools offer Early Decision II, while others don't have the second deadline.

Popular Schools that have Early Decision Deadlines

School Deadline for ED I Deadline for ED II

American University November 15th January 15th

Boston College January 1st November 1st

Boston University November 1st January 1st

Bowdoin College November 15th January 5th

Brandeis University November 1st January 1st

Brown University November 1st N/A

Colby College November 15th January 1st

Columbia University November 1st N/A

Cornell University November 1st N/A

Dartmouth College November 1st N/A

Duke University November 1st N/A

Emory University November 1st January 1st

Johns Hopkins University November 2nd January 4th

New York University November 1st January 1st

Northwestern University November 1st N/A

Pomona College November 15th January 8th

Smith College November 15th January 1st

Tufts University November 1st January 1st

University of Chicago November 2nd January 4th

University of Pennsylvania November 1st N/A

Vanderbilt University November 1st January 1st

Wesleyan University November 15th January 1st

Smaller schools offer Early Decision II so they can have greater control over the enrollment numbers. Early Decision is an option because it shows how enthusiastic and committed you are to attending. If your school offers Early Decision II and you feel that you want to wait a few more months to work on your college application, then you should wait for this deadline. No matter what, you'll find out earlier if you get admitted into your first school of choice.

It's Time to Take Action- Six College Admissions Tips for High School Freshmen

Actions High School Freshmen should take

As students begin their freshman year in high school, we suggest following these tips to get you ready for your long-term college admission plan.

Students starting high school is a big transition, but this year is particularly daunting amidst the uncertainty of the reopening of schools in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. The college admissions process is adding more stress to high school students preparing to apply to colleges and universities. Standardized exams schedules have shifted, incoming students are postponing their acceptances, faculty hiring is stagnant, and colleges are rushing to teach remotely during budget cuts. We'll be discussing actions high school students should take now in their college preparation.

Six Actions You Should Take Now

1. Plan For Your Four-Year Curriculum Early- The choices you make during your freshman year will provide the foundation through your four years of high school, especially when it comes to your course load. Likewise, the choices you make will also play a role in the college admissions process. While some schools have course progressions that can be inflexible. If a student gets off track early, it will be tough to come back by the time you apply for college. A student that doesn't participate in advanced level courses will impact the range of applied schools.

2. Design a standardized testing plan- Once you identify your high school courses, you can decide which tests to take. Even though colleges are test-optional during the pandemic, it might change as you move further along in high school. Maximize your testing chances by thinking ahead of the curb. Focus on the SAT, ACT, Subject Tests, AP Tests, and IB Tests. By 2025 the UC's will have an exam of their own. The standardized exam will be somewhat of an evaluation to see if students are ready for college.

3. Develop an at-home classroom- Taking classes online will not be the same as if you were physically at school. Designate a private, quiet space in your home to use as a workplace. Think about designing a professional backdrop and commit to making your workspace free of distractions. Choose an area with natural light and find great seating. This workspace should be a place other than your bedroom. Before you take your online class, switch out of your pajamas, and dress professionally to signal to your brain you're at school. Once in-person instruction resumes, maintain your workspace for homework if possible. Are you looking to ease tension during this time? If so, use essential oils. Using specific scents can help you relax when it comes to taking that test or studying.

4. Engage with your community- Students should couple their interests and talents with the needs and impact of their community. You should ask yourself, “what can I give back to my community?” Start venturing out of high school and engage with your community. Due to COVID-19, you won't be able to volunteer the same as in the past; however, think outside the box and take the initiative. Create a blog, play an instrument, do an at-home internship, share your talents.

5. Master Organization- Students aren't born geniuses. They need to work hard and develop a structure that works for them. Students need to hold themselves accountable. Reinvent your identity as a class scholar rather than a class clown. Try to complete tasks on time and with clarity.

6. Fill Up Your Resume with areas of interest and passion projects- Due to the pandemic, students have been unable to build their resume or perform extracurriculars to add to their college application. You might be asking yourself, should I still be active during this time? The answer is- YES. Be creative and think outside the box. Here are some ideas to get started.

These six steps for freshmen will launch your high school career with enough structure to succeed, however, you have to follow through. Any bad habits you form in the first year will typically be what will keep you from admissions into your dream college. We advise our students to put in four years of consistent persistence.

Can Parents Solve the Education Crisis by Themselves?

Educational “Pandemic” Pods

With instructional teaching on hold, parents are looking for ways to keep their kids engaged in their education. One of them is through learning or “pandemic pods”. We’ll give you insight on this new educational trend.

Parents realized the truth about the upcoming 2020-2021 school year. If it happens in person, then many families and students won't feel safe. If classes take place remotely, then the quality of education may be problematic. Parents may be unable to provide students with the level of supervision as they work from home. Desperate for a solution, parents around the country have organized homeschooling pods or Pandemic Pods, for the fall, where groups of three to ten students learn together under the tutelage of the parent(s) or a hired tutor. These pods offer parents a break from needing to be the teacher in addition to the parent.

So let’s discuss how these pods can play a role for families, how Link Educational Institute is providing parents and students with these pods in Claremont, CA, and how these pods can be efficient.

Pod Mania

Marissa Leitner, a school psychologist, and mother of three who lives in Culver City, California, is not enthusiastic about the remote learning environment. "I don't believe the Zoom experience for kindergartners is appropriate," she said. "Kids need that multimodal sensory learning."

Leitner and her brother in law, Daniel Zakowski, who also has three kids, are developing a pod involving three or four families. They are hiring a tutor during the mornings, and a college student to help out in the afternoons. Zakowski says this pandemic pod will provide kids with a predictable structure and schedule. They hope this will help the children feel anchored and safe.

In addition to hiring tutors, families are enlisting other parents to collaborate on the teaching the pod. Meredith Phillips, from Croton, New York, a mother of an eight and eleven-year-old, is hoping to assemble a pod with three other families that will rotate responsibilities. One of the dads, who owns a tech company, can teach coding, while Phillips, who's an editor, can teach reading and writing. The parents will teach "whatever they're good at or know and care about," Phillips said. Doing this will expose kids to a variety of different subjects.

Families are either pulling their students out of school altogether for the learning pods or using these pods as a supplement to their schools' online curricula. "From our perspective, it would be a complementary, rather than a replacement," says Adam Davis, a pediatrician from San Francisco. He wants to assemble a learning pod with a teacher or college student for his second grader and kindergartner in the fall. Davis added, "we're committed to our school- we're part of the Parent Teachers Association." Parents that pull their students out of school have to deal with homeschooling laws from their state.

Claremont Pandemic Pods

At Link Educational Institute, our mission is to assist students with their educational goals. This pandemic has affected families; especially, parents who have kids going to school. However, there is an alternative to this situation. Welcome to our school, in your community (or at your house) called the Claremont Pandemic Pods.

Whether elementary, middle school, or high school, they will be able to learn from our tutors in a safe, friendly, and efficient environment. Our tutors will be assigned a group of students based on the families’ needs and wants. Students' needs and wants can come from meeting with the parents. Parents can bring documents such as report cards, past work, and comments from their teachers. With that information we will match that student with the right tutor. You might be asking yourself, will guidelines be enforced due to the pandemic? The answer is YES- participants will have to follow strict social distancing guidelines. These guidelines consist of wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining social distancing. Our team is working diligently to make the Claremont Pandemic Pods a reality for families during this unforeseen time. To learn about the pandemic pods listen to “All Things Considered” on this audio, to hear more about all sides to this trend.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic parents have had to adapt to a new learning environment. These tips are crucial, especially for parents who have high school seniors. Families that use Pandemic Pods can work on college applications together. They can learn about the various essay applications, plus which colleges will drop the standardized testing.

How to make pods safe, and effective

One concern about pods is that families don't know how to decrease COVID risks. Saskia Popescu, Ph.D., says that pods shouldn't have more than ten kids. When you add the teacher and the students' family members in the pod, the risk of spreading the coronavirus can increase.

Likewise, families in learning pods shouldn't be socializing with people outside the pod. If this happens, individuals need to wear masks and practice social distancing, Dr. Popescu said. Families need to communicate with each other and work on taking precautions. One conversation can consist of, what should happen if a student has an emergency. Additionally, what are the collective rules on wearing masks and washing hands within the pod.

If parents are teaching in a pod, educators say there are no 100% right ways of being successful. Mordechai Levy-Eichel, an education historian at Yale University, and a father of three who was homeschooled himself says, try multiple things, see how they go. Think of it has an experiment. Focus on projects and enriching discussions, he suggested.