The Benchmark Blog Has Moved

The Benchmark Blog has now moved to the Benchmark Associates website. Check the Benchmark Associates website for all of the latest information on college admissions.

Career Tips for College Students

As students head to college this fall, families are facing concerns over the future job market, a major shift in career options, and uncertainty about everything from the value of a liberal arts education, to limited summer opportunities for students. I encourage everyone to read this valuable article regarding the benefits of a liberal arts education as it provides solace in this complicated climate as families sometimes struggle with the academic choices made by students. Employers are often looking for those graduates with a broad humanities education as they know that they can count on them to think critically, and be creative and flexible as organizations are faced with complex challenges.

There is no question that it is becoming increasingly important to seek out internships and jobs that will open doors after graduation. Co-op programs, research projects on campus, and summer internships allow students to explore those things they want to do, as well as those they should avoid. As on-campus recruiters cut back substantially, developing contacts through family, friends, college alumni and mentoring programs, or past employers can make the difference when it comes time to graduate. This article provides suggestions for students as they plan for the future.

The Project on Student Debt Highlights Specific University Programs

The Project on Student Debt offers an excellent listing of colleges that are committed to limiting or eliminating student loans from financial aid packages, reducing costs for students and families. The site includes an analysis of each of these programs and information for the programs that meet their guidelines.

2009-2010 Dates for SAT and ACT Tests Announced

2009-2010 Test Dates
Registration will be available mid-Summer

SAT and SAT Subject Test

Oct. 10
Nov. 7
Dec. 5
Jan. 23
March 13 (SAT only, no Subject Tests)
May 1
June 5

ACT Test

September 12
October 24
December 12
February 6
April 10
June 12

The Benchmark Calendar includes these dates and more....

Seattle Area Events for Students Considering Engineering

Two upcoming events offer students a preview of the many opportunities open to those considering engineering as a focus in college. Many universities ask students to apply directly to engineering programs as freshmen, and it often takes the full four years to complete a degree, therefore students need to hit the ground running. These programs offer a way to explore the many creative and exciting engineering disciplines such as energy conservation and development, infrastructure design, and software development.

Saturday, February 7, 2009
Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Conference at the UW

Saturday, February 14th, 2009
The Museum of Flight joins with the Puget Sound Engineering Council to celebrate the annual National Engineers Week with an Engineering Fair.

Update on Admissions

Many private colleges continue to offer excellent financial and merit aid for students, often making the private school choice a good alternative to the public schools which are facing cutbacks. Business Week has recently published an article that highlights various schools and their approaches to recent economic pressures. Representatives for the UC and Cal State Systems and the Washington State System have made it clear that reduced enrollments and budget cuts are moving ahead. 

While it was expected that Early Decision applications that require commitment by a student to attend if admitted would be down this year as a result of economic factors increasing the need by families to compare other offers before committing, this has not been the case. Inside Higher Education has recently summarized these application details at a number of colleges. As expected, applications to public institutions including the University of Washington are already up 20% this fall despite upcoming cuts. 

The Impact of Social Networking Sites on College Admissions

A recent survey of college admissions offices highlights the impact a student's Facebook or MySpace page can have on admissions decisions. While the percentage of admissions offices checking social networking sites is still fairly small, the numbers are growing. Admissions officers may check these sites if there is a concern or question about an applicant, and in some cases have been directed to these sites from other applicants. You should consider the ramifications of posting material that may impact your application. Read more in this recent article in the Wall Street Journal.