How Will the AP U.S. History Exam Change in May 2015?

How Will the AP U.S. History Exam Change in May 2015?

In May of 2015, there will be changes to the Advanced Placement U.S. History test. These changes have been in the works since 2006, with the new framework rolled out in 2012 to give teachers the chance to prepare themselves and their students. There will also be changes to the AP Physics B Exam in May 2015 as well. So, what will the new exam look like? How has it changed, and why?  Why is the exam changing? The prior AP U.S. History exam was heavily criticized. Mainly, critique focused on the exam’s length, as well as its questions spanning such a wide range of potential topics that students did not always know what to s ... Read More About How Will the AP U.S. History Exam Change in May 2015?

A Day in the Life at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

A Day in the Life at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach – they’re sharing their college experiences as well. Nihal is a tutor in Chicago specializing in Algebra tutoring, Pharmacology tutoring, Chemical Engineering tutoring, and many other subjects. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2013. See what he had to say about his time at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. How urban or safe is the campus? Are there buses or do you need a car/bike?  Nihal: The University of ... Read More About A Day in the Life at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

What is it Like to Attend American University?

What is it Like to Attend American University?

The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teach – they’re sharing their college experiences, as well. Kelsey is a Philadelphia tutor and 2013 graduate of American University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and specializes in several subjects such as ACT prep tutoring, History tutoring, and Reading tutoring. See what Kelsey had to say about her time at American University: VT: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. How urban or safe is the campus? Are there buses or do you need a car/bike? Kelsey: American University is in a great area of Washington, D.C. It ... Read More About What is it Like to Attend American University?

4 Benefits of STEM Studies

4 Benefits of STEM Studies

Course offerings in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—have become much more numerous and varied at the high school level in recent years, and there has been a concerted effort in many parts of the country to increase the influence of STEM studies in high school curricula. Nevertheless, many students who do not plan to study STEM-related subjects in college often enroll in the minimum number of required STEM courses during their high school careers. There are many benefits to students completing STEM classes outside their minimum graduation requirements, and these benefits apply equally to students who plan to ... Read More About 4 Benefits of STEM Studies

3 Ways to Enhance Your Graduate School Application

3 Ways to Enhance Your Graduate School Application

When you apply to graduate school, think of your application as your first encounter with someone whom you admire. You want to make a positive first impression. While the application may seem two-dimensional, its different parts provide ample opportunities through which you can highlight your strengths. You may find this college student's guide to applying to grad school useful as well. As you compile your essays, recommendations, transcripts, and resume, check out these three ways to creatively enhance your graduate school application. 1. Draw on your unique background and experiences When you write your essays and resume, re ... Read More About 3 Ways to Enhance Your Graduate School Application