This month we're thrilled to highlight Westside Neighborhood School, where we'll have the honor of teaching an ISEE prep course this summer. Westside is a 

K-8 school known for producing well-rounded,self-confident students who are fully prepared and perfectly positioned for high school. From its inception in 1980, WNS has embraced the magic of the kindergarten through eighth grade model. Its younger students flourish within the safety net of their older schoolmates who serve as inspirational role models, while middle schoolers graduate with a level of poise, academic confidence & self-awareness that contributes to success in high school and beyond. The formula is simple : wonderful adults inspiring children to reach, probe, challenge and celebrate. For more information visit the website or call 310-574-8650.

Welcome to our Pre-Finals May Edition!

Rarely in the school calendar can a few weeks make such a difference as this last month before finals. 

Given the level of importance these exams carry in relation to a student's academic career, it can be crucial to make that final 'push' toward fulfillment of their goals. 

The month of May is a critical time for students to re-motivate themselves and look at study strategies. Some may find that in concentrating on weak areas of study, they may have taken for granted former strengths, which now need attention; others might have spread their time across too many subjects and suddenly find that they've drifted from their core academic goals.

This month, we'll examine the pre-finals terrain, providing possibilities and hopefully solutions for students looking to take their academic achievement over the top when it matters most.

At Academic Success, we're constantly striving for excellence, believing that every student has the power to transcend previous limits. 

Please call with any questions at (310) 823 4398 or

All the best,

Jamie

"One way to keep momentum is to have constantly greater goals."

                                                - Michael Korda      

As they begin to gear up for finals, students will often start to take a more general approach to their study in an attempt to 'cover all their bases'. This list of strategies, tailored for finals, may help students zero in on those subjects that require a more intense focus.  

Advice From Those On The Ground

Amidst all the advice students may receive from teachers, parents and counselors, sometimes a little guidance from one's fellow academic warriors may be just what's required. This fun and insightful slideshow featuring some very smart kids could provide some answers for students looking for help.

Embracing The Journey  

There's no question that a relaxed, positive state of being can allow a student greater access in an exam setting to what they've learnt. This poignant op-ed by a current high school senior provides a lovely perspective on teen academic life that may allow a way forward during challenging times. 

How They Do It In College

College students face similar challenges when it comes to allocating time and energy in the crucial last weeks before finals. This recent article from North Michigan University's campus newspaper provides an illuminating perpective on students' final days before the big exams.

Words of Wisdom   

While students may receive good advice from parents and friends, school guidance counselors are often in a position to offer expert advice for kids struggling under pressure. This illuminating interview with a Maryville High School guidance counselor provides a useful perspective for parents and students alike.

  Creating Digital Finals Flashcards     

people can remember, using them can be a cumbersome process, especially given how much study material students are expected to carry with them as they move through their school day.

A more efficient and even fun approach is to use smartphones or tablets to download and/or create specific flash cards tailored to each student's needs. 

Kids can now download apps for their phones and also use websites that offer students all kinds of possibilities related to study aids in preparation for finals. They can also share the flashcards they use with their friends, creating a sense of fun and healthy competition during study time. 

Digital flashcards have become a highly popular study aid, so students will not suffer from lack of choice: this website offers 155 different flashcards apps for students!

While many parents and teachers might prefer students to be spending less time on their phones, digital flashcards can be a powerful tool that puts these devices to good use.