Tag Archive for: college

Rachel Hodis
, , ,

Finding Your Community on Campus

Finding your community on Campus

College is an exciting time filled with possibilities! Starting college means new classes, new independence, and meeting new people. But while campuses can seem buzzing with activity, many students quietly experience loneliness in those early months. Here’s what every college student (and parent) should know about loneliness and the journey to finding your community on campus.

Loneliness in College Is Normal, Especially at First

If you’re feeling isolated or unsure of where you fit in, you’re not alone. In fact, loneliness is one of the most common emotional experiences during the first semester of college. Why?

  • Everything is new. New environment, new people, new routines. It’s a lot for anyone to adjust to all at once.
  • Relationships take time. Real friendships don’t form overnight. It takes time to find people who you truly connect with.
  • Social media adds pressure. It can feel like everyone else is effortlessly making friends, but remember that what you see online is rarely the full picture.

Loneliness doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong, it just means you’re human, and you’re adjusting to a major life change.

How to Combat Loneliness and Find Your People

The good news is that colleges are filled with opportunities to meet people, explore interests, and find community!

1. Start Small and Show Up

You don’t have to join five clubs or attend every campus event. Just start with one small step, like:

  • Introducing yourself to someone in class
  • Attending a residence hall event
  • Attending a club meeting that aligns with an interest
  • Studying in a shared space like a library or lounge

Even showing up regularly to the same coffee shop or study area can create familiarity and natural opportunities for connection.

2. Join Groups That Match Your Interests

Colleges often have clubs and organizations that span nearly every interest– academic, cultural, creative, athletic, and more. Whether it’s student government, a dance team, a coding club, or an intramural sport, these groups are designed to help students connect around shared passions.

Check out bulletin boards, explore your college’s website, or search social media to find groups and events on campus.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Be the One Who Reaches Out

Everyone’s looking for connection, even if they’re not saying it out loud. If you’re waiting for others to make the first move, you may be waiting a long time.

  • Ask a classmate to grab coffee or study together
  • Start a group chat with peers in your dorm or class
  • Send a message to someone you met at orientation or an event

It can feel vulnerable at first, but most people will be glad you reached out because chances are, they’re feeling the same way.

4. Seek Support When You Need It

If feelings of loneliness persist, it’s okay to talk to someone. Many campuses offer mental health counseling, peer mentoring, and wellness services. Keep in touch with family and other friends who aren’t on campus. You can also find a professional, licensed therapist to talk to if you are struggling. Many mental health professionals offer virtual sessions, or you can find one with an office near your school.

Academic Support Can Be Helpful

Sometimes, students feel isolated because they’re struggling to connect in class or keep up with the academic pace. A tutor can become an important part of your community as someone who encourages you, helps you stay on track, and reminds you that you’re not alone in this journey.

We’re proud to offer personalized, one-on-one tutoring that goes beyond homework help. Our sessions create space for students to feel seen, supported, and empowered both inside and outside the classroom. Call or email us today to learn how our tutoring and coaching services can help you feel more confident in college.

Final Thoughts

Feeling lonely in college doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong place, it just means you’re adjusting to something big. Give yourself time, keep reaching out, and remember that community isn’t built in a day.

by
Rachel Hodis
, ,

The Transition from High School to College

The Transition from High School to College

The shift from high school to college is one of the biggest changes a student faces in their academic journey. It’s more than just a change in location or schedule; it’s a lifestyle shift that requires a new level of independence, responsibility, and adaptability. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can help you feel confident rather than overwhelmed.

Embracing Independence

One of the most noticeable changes in college is the increase in personal freedom. You’ll likely be living away from home for the first time, managing your own schedule, meals, and finances. While this independence can be exciting, it can also be challenging. Without parents or teachers constantly checking in, it’s up to you to stay on top of your responsibilities and make healthy choices, both academically and personally.

Tips for success:

  • Create a monthly budget using apps or a spreadsheet to track expenses and avoid overspending.
  • Set a weekly routine for meals, laundry, and studying to establish structure in your day-to-day life.
  • Get familiar with campus resources like student health services, student support offices, and counseling centers.
    • Pro Tip: Before classes start, use a map to go around campus and find the buildings where your classes are, as well as some of these student services. That way you won’t be as nervous about going to the wrong place on the first day.

Taking Responsibility for Your Learning

In high school, much of your academic success came from structured routines and external accountability. Teachers would remind you of deadlines, monitor attendance, and follow up if you missed a class. College professors, on the other hand, expect you to manage your own time and meet deadlines without reminders. You’re in charge of attending lectures, completing assignments, and seeking help when needed. Especially since some classes might be in large lecture halls where attendance isn’t monitored. This requires you to have a higher level of self-discipline and initiative.

Tips for success:

  • Use a digital planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and important dates.
  • Check your syllabus regularly. It acts as a contract for the course and includes deadlines and policies.
  • Visit your professors during office hours even if you don’t have a specific question; it builds rapport and shows initiative. It also makes it easier to ask questions or get help when you do need it. And keep in mind that professors tend to get busy before midterms and finals.

Adapting to a New Learning Environment

The academic expectations in college are also different. Classes often move faster, cover more material, and demand deeper critical thinking. You may have fewer assignments, but each one carries more weight. Lectures might be large and impersonal, so office hours and small group labs become essential for asking questions and understanding material. You’ll need strong note-taking skills, time management, and the ability to study independently.

Tips for success:

  • Experiment with different study methods like the Pomodoro technique, spaced repetition, or active recall to see what works best for you.
  • Review and revise your notes regularly, not just before exams. This will help you retain information long-term.

If you take notes on a computer during class, copy them by hand in a notebook after class. This will help you go over what you just learned, making retention easier.

If you copy something down that you don’t quite remember or understand, make a note of it and bring it up during your professor’s office hours.

  • Find or form study groups to review material together and get different perspectives on tough topics.

Building a Support System

With all these changes, it’s crucial to find a support system. This can include roommates, classmates, professors, academic advisors, and mental health counselors. Staying connected to your support network helps reduce stress and keeps you motivated. Joining clubs, study groups, or campus organizations is a great way to meet new people and find a community.

Tips for success:

  • Attend campus events and club fairs to meet people with shared interests.
  • Schedule regular check-ins with an advisor or mentor to talk through challenges and goals.
  • Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There’s no shame in asking for academic or emotional support.

How We Can Help

At Hodis Learning & Music, we understand that the transition from high school to college can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer tutoring for both high school and college students.

For high schoolers, our tutors help build a strong academic foundation and can prepare them for standardized tests. This can help high school students feel more prepared for college.

For college students, we offer tutoring to help students adjust to the academic rigor, manage their time, and sharpen their study skills.

Whether you’re preparing to make the leap or adjusting to life on campus, we’re here to help. Call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a form on our website to learn more.

 

by
Rachel Hodis
,

How to Write an Effective College Application Essay

How to Write an Effective College Essay

You’ve worked hard in class to get the grades and you studied up for the SAT. Now it’s time to write your college application essay! This is your chance to show your personality and let the admissions committee get to know you beyond the numbers. Below, we’ll guide you through writing an effective college application essay.


Understanding the Importance of the College Application Essay

Your college application essay is an opportunity to share your experiences, dreams, and personality with college admissions committees. This is your chance to let them know what your values are, what kind of person you are, and who you want to be. Your college application essay can be what differentiates you from an identical applicant who has a similar GPA and exam score.


Choosing the Right Topic

Like any writing assignment, sometimes the hardest part is starting, and to start you’ll need to pick your topic. A good place to begin is to reflect on your personal experiences and what’s important to you. Think about moments that have impacted your life, influenced your perspective, or taught you lessons. What challenges have you overcome? When did you have to stand up for what you believe in? Did you ever have to work really hard to achieve a goal? These are stories that are personal and resonate with admissions officers.

Keep in mind that many students write about similar activities like sports, volunteering, and student leadership in their essays. It’s perfectly fine to write about a sports victory or volunteer trip, but focus on your unique perspective and personal growth. Whatever you choose, make sure it aligns with the prompt and highlights your individuality.


Crafting a Compelling Narrative

The best college application essays tell a story. Don’t list your achievements or describe an event with a play-by-play of what happened. Instead, create a narrative that engages the reader. How were you feeling? What did you notice? Share your perspective and use descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader and allow them to experience the moment with you.

Remember that authenticity is important. Don’t simply write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Authentic stories, even if they’re about small, everyday experiences, can be incredibly powerful and tell a lot about who you are.

Don’t forget that the most compelling essays often highlight personal growth and self-reflection. How did the experience challenge you or change you? What did you learn about yourself? What did you learn about the world around you?


Structuring the Essay

A well-structured essay is easy to read and more impactful than a poorly structured essay. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction. This could be a surprising fact, a question, or a vivid description that sets the scene for your story.

In the body of your essay, develop your main ideas in clear, concise paragraphs. Make sure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next one and build on the story. Keep your reader engaged with a logical progression and avoid unnecessary tangents.

The conclusion of your essay should tie everything together and reinforce the main message of your essay. The reader should finish with a clear understanding of your story and the message you shared.


Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your College Application Essay

  1. Being too generic: Your essay should be specific to you and reflect your personal experiences. Essays that are too broad or could apply to anyone will not stand out.
  2. Overusing complex vocabulary: While it’s important to demonstrate your writing skills, using big words just for the sake of it can make your essay sound forced and unnatural. Write in your own voice and let your personality shine through.
  3. Going over the word limit: Admissions officers have hundreds of essays to read, and if your essay is too long, it could be cut off or even disregarded altogether.
  4. Not fully addressing the prompt: It’s easy to get carried away with your story and forget to answer the question being asked. Review the prompt carefully and ensure that your essay provides a complete response.


Conclusion

Writing a college application essay can be daunting, but it’s an opportunity to reflect on your experiences and share who you are with the admissions committee. Remember that your first draft won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. With time, effort, and the right guidance, you can write an essay that truly represents who you are and stands out in a crowded admissions pool.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of where to start, Hodis Learning & Music can help. We offer personalized guidance to help you brainstorm ideas, refine your writing, and create a standout essay. Call or submit a form on our website today to schedule a session.

by
Rachel Hodis
,

Personal Statement Workshop

personal statement tutoring workshop

Personal Statement Workshop Overview

Whether you’re applying to high school, college, or a graduate program, having a strong personal statement is key to standing out to any admissions committee. In the Hodis Learning & Music Personal Statement Workshop, you’ll learn everything you need to know about crafting the perfect personal statement.

What To Expect

Once you sign up for the workshop, you’ll be matched with an expert tutor who will go over common prompts and help you brainstorm and draft your statement. You’ll hone your writing skills and create at least one compelling statement that you can use in your applications. You’ll also gain the skills you need to write other successful statements on your own.

Sign Up To Write a Winning Personal Statement Now

Reserve your spot in our Personal Statement Workshop now and you’ll save $40 on the listed price! This exclusive offer ends February 14. If you want more information, read about the workshop here. 

Call us today at (626) 227-1149 or email us to reserve your seat today!

by
Rachel Hodis
, ,

When Should I Start Preparing for the SAT?

SAT test help. Test tutor Best Math Tutor South Pasadena, English Tutor Pasadena, Chemistry Tutor San Marino, Homeshool Instruction Local top rated. Hodis Learning & Music Tutoring is the best rated tutor in Pasadena

It’s officially 2023, and for juniors in high school, that means it’s time to start thinking about when you’ll take the SAT. While many colleges and universities are dropping their testing requirements, a high test score could be what sets you apart from other applicants and even help you win scholarships.

2023 Spring SAT Test Dates

The spring SAT testing dates are listed on the College Board website and included below.

  • March 11, 2023
  • May 6, 2023
  • June 3, 2023

When To Start Test Prep

It’s recommended that you begin preparing and studying for the SAT 2-3 months before your exam. That means if you plan to take the SAT on March 11, you should start studying now.

Try Private SAT Test Prep Tutoring

But don’t panic! First, make sure you’ve registered for your exam date. Next, schedule SAT tutoring sessions with one of our expert tutors. Our tutors will work with you step-by-step, starting with a breakdown of the exam and evaluation of your skill-level. Your tutor will help you identify patterns in the questions, develop your reasoning skills, show you test-taking strategies, and assist you in managing your time. By the time of your testing date, you should feel prepared and confident!

The Hodis Learning Advantage

Our tutors are professional educators who hold degrees in their respective fields and have years of test-prep experience. They always provide focused, personalized instruction tailored to your needs and skill-level in a one-on-one setting. And sessions can take place in your home or a public setting– whichever is best and most convenient for you. Your tutor will meet with you regularly in the lead up to your SAT date to ensure you’re getting consistent practice and instruction.

Book your first SAT tutoring session today by calling (626) 227-1149 or visit email us today. Consider enrolling in our test prep workshop to prepare for your test.

by