Music To Improve Learning? How Hip Hop Beats Can Enhance Math Skills

Music To Improve Learning? How Hip Hop Beats Can Enhance Math Skills

by | Education

Using Music To Improve Learning

Did you know you can use music to improve learning in one of the most difficult subjects for many young students… Math?

Read about this creative approach of using music and hip hop beats that will transform your student’s feelings about Math.

 

For many of us, back-to-school looks a little different this year. With students across the United States starting the 2020-2021 academic school year from home, many parents are finding themselves more and more involved in their student’s school day.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation is committed to helping our students and their families thrive during this time. We host virtual monthly enrichment workshops to provide a community of academic support. In our last virtual workshop, we learned how we can help students approach difficult concepts using the tools they know best.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation discovered that learning math can actually be enjoyable and fun, after exploring how beats can help us understand math concepts in our virtual workshop. While it can be difficult for many students to remember the rules and properties of mathematical concepts, it is much easier for them to remember the lyrics or the beat of a song.

 

Dr. Rob Rubalcaba a.k.a DJ Professor Shadow, an associate professor at San Diego City College, hosted a virtual workshop that is built on this thinking. In his workshop, Dr. Rob showed us how he uses hip-hop to teach mathematics in a fun and educational way.

 

Music To Improve Learning | Math is the Foundation of Music.

Music is built on the foundation of mathematical laws, by using counts to provide a framework for how beats sound and how the rhythm comes together. Patterns of sound come together to create the beats and rhythm that we love and listen to all the time. While some pieces of music have more evident mathematical structures than others, we can find mathematical rhythm and patterns in the songs we hear every day. For example, a whole music note is four beat measures, and fractions like ½ ¼, or ⅛ are often used as notation. When songs bring counts together, we can use multiplication to identify how the rhythm is aligned. Division divides up different beats, allowing for integration and disintegration throughout the song.

 

Music To Improve Learning | Music Helps Students Think about Math Differently.

Not only do music and math both share a foundation of patterns, they also have a foundation of repetition in common. And as repetition is crucial to committing something to memory, it becomes clear how music can enhance learning and comprehension of mathematical concepts. Educators support that music can aid in the development of academic skills and enhance aspects of the curriculum. Additionally, researchers found that music improves spatial temporal reasoning skills, which is important for math concepts like proportional reasoning and geometry.

 

As research shows, integrating music into learning can be especially helpful for students with musical inclinations and strong hearing. Leveraging music effectively in learning doesn’t require extensive training or expensive equipment – you just need a song or rhythm instrument and accompanying music notes and mathematical figures. This easy and creative teaching approach is welcome in a time where students are becoming more independent in their studies as a result of distance learning.

 

 

Watch The Workshop With Dr. Rob.

Music To Improve Learning | Using Music in Teaching is a Student-Centered Approach.

It’s important for educators, students, and parents alike to consider different teaching strategies when necessary. Using another instructional approach signals to students that they can achieve anything with persistence. Allowing students to understand how they learn best and how they can teach themselves is crucial to the success of distance learning. To do this, we must focus on the individual needs, abilities, and learning styles of students as it relates to what they are learning. Then, instead of becoming stuck or frustrated, students will learn how to make it work for them without giving up.

 

With distance learning quickly becoming the new normal, student-centered teaching is more important than ever. Unlike the traditional learning model, where the teacher is at the center in an active role, distance learning requires students to be active and responsible participants in academic instruction. We encourage students, parents and educators to think outside the box for creative strategies like using music to help with math during this challenging time. This strategy will also prepare students for the distractions and uncertainties of post-secondary life, whether that is at college or throughout their adulthood in general.

 

While this upcoming school year will look different than last year, we are confident that your son can maintain his academic success with ongoing support. During these unusual times, The Blue Heart Foundation is here to help parents and students alike. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each and every one of you as we start this school year. Learn more about how we support our students with programs and resources here.

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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Back to School: COVID-19 Edition

Back to School: COVID-19 Edition

by | Education, Family

In person, Distance Learning or Hybrid? Keeping Your Son Engaged

 

This fall, going back to school will be very different for many students across the country. With the current coronavirus health and safety concerns, many school districts are considering distance learning and/or hybrid classroom models for this upcoming school year.

This week, the San Diego Unified School District announced that it will adopt strict standards to protect students, staff, and the community from the spread of COVID-19 this upcoming school year. As a result, the timeline to reopen San Diego schools for in-class instruction will likely take months.

As we continue to follow the guidance from our county, we recognize the challenges of distance learning that both students and parents may face this school year. To help our community kick off this academic year with success, we’ve compiled comprehensive Back to School strategies to help our students thrive and make the 2020-2021 school year the best yet.

We cover the latest strategies on keeping your children engaged in distance learning at home as well as preparing students for hybrid or in-class learning at school.

 

Continue reading for expert advice on how to help your child stay engaged with distance learning this upcoming school year.

 

 

1.  Monitor your child’s pace

The transition to distance learning will be different for every student. Monitor your child’s pace in keeping up with the class curriculum, especially if your household has limited to no access to reliable internet or a device designated for your child’s use. In that case, work with your school to adjust the curriculum and/or expectations to ensure your child receives equitable classroom instruction.

 

2.  Balance core subjects with other learning experiences

In addition to monitoring your student’s pace, experts suggest balancing core subjects with other learning experiences to relieve some of the pressure to catch up or stay on track with the planned class curriculum and account for the realities of distance learning.

 

3.  Establish a routine that includes breaks

The key to sustaining your child’s engagement is establishing a set routine that he can depend on in the midst of the current coronavirus outbreak uncertainty. Factor in time for breaks and refreshing activities so your child will have an enjoyable routine that provides structure during the school day.

 

4.  Encourage movement throughout the day

Including breaks in your child’s routine will also allow for physical movement throughout the school day. Experts suggest allowing time for exercise before your child’s focus is required on a distance learning task. Additionally, consider a raised surface so your child can alternate sitting and standing while doing schoolwork.

 

5.  Schedule time to connect with classmates

Unlike in-person learning, your child will not have conversations between classes or at lunch that provide social enrichment to the school day. Schedule time for your child to connect with classmates to keep him engaged with the school beyond his classroom lessons.

 

6.  Seek real-time interaction with teachers

In addition to connecting with classmates, real-time interaction with teachers will increase classroom engagement for your child.

 

7.  Help him self-direct

As parents, we must balance our own work schedules with our child’s school schedule, so it is important that our children are able to self-direct throughout the day. Using checklists could help your child stay focused and engaged during school hours with minimal guidance from you.

 

8.  Maintain a distraction-free zone

In addition to checklists, a distraction-free zone is needed to keep your child engaged in distance learning. The CDC recommends a space at home that is free of distractions during school hours.

 

9.  Consider a digital quarantine

A digital quarantine is a strategy that can limit distraction and keep your child’s attention on schoolwork. Parenting experts suggest limiting the use of their devices, other than what is needed to complete their work until designated breaks or when their work is done for the day.

 

10. Manage screen time

Further, too much screen time can have adverse impacts on your son’s brain, so experts suggest mixing it up for distance learning. Balance screen time with old school learning formats like textbooks, worksheets or other printouts.

 

11. Know your child’s learning style

The CDC also recommends being aware of your child’s learning style and ensuring that it is compatible with distance learning. Whether your child learns best in a visual or hands-on manner, that knowledge will help you work with him and his teacher to accommodate his learning needs at home.

 

12. Make it enjoyable

Knowing your child’s favorite activities as well as their preferred learning style can make distance learning much more enjoyable for all parties. Going back to school brings excitement that can fuel academic success for your child. Keep that momentum going by incorporating the tasks that he likes to do into his daily school schedule.

 

13. Provide immediate positive feedback

As your schedule allows, provide immediate positive feedback to your child. Researchers say that something as simple as a check mark can go a long way in motivating your child.

 

14. Keep in touch with teachers, staff, and other parents for support

Distance learning can bring a higher level of parental involvement, which makes it important for parents to also receive feedback and support on the best way to help their child with new concepts. Keeping in touch with teachers, staff, and other parents will provide you with a support network to help you work through challenges and contribute to your son’s academic success.

 

15. Use behavioral health and emotional support resources

Pediatric experts recommend using mental health support that schools provide to help students who are struggling with stress from the pandemic or who are showing signs of anxiety or distress. These resources will help your child get the support they need to put their best foot forward this school year.

 

Preparing For Hybrid or In-Class Instruction

As the coronavirus situation continues to evolve, parents should also prepare for hybrid and in-class learning instruction. Read on for back to school strategies for reopening schools.

 

 

16.  Have conversations about COVID-19

With so much visible concern about reopening schools, your student may have stress or anxiety about returning to school. Having ongoing conversations about the latest coronavirus situation is a great way to ease those feelings and provide him with more certainty. For tips to guide your conversation, check out our blog post here.

 

17.  Highlight the benefits of in-class learning

In those conversations, be sure to highlight the benefits of in-class learning. Experts stress that schools provide more than just academics to children; they allow students to develop social and emotional skills, get exercise, and have access to mental health support.

 

18.  Remind him of his resilience

Soothe his fears and anxieties by reminding him of his resilience and all that he has accomplished in his academic career so far. It could also be helpful to incorporate findings from the CDC that suggest that children are less likely to get COVID-19 than adults, and when they do get COVID-19, they generally have less serious illness than adults.

 

19.  Remind him that he’s not alone

Additionally, remind your son that he is not alone. Let him know that it is a team effort with his parents, teachers, and the district to have safe in-class instruction this school year.

 

20.  Reinforce healthy habits at home

Reinforcing healthy habits at home, like hand hygiene, will help you and your child both feel more prepared to go back to school for in-class learning.

 

21.  Allow him to adjust to the new normal

With any changes, children need time to adjust. Give him time and space to understand that this is the new normal and provide an adjustment period. Then, the focus will be less on how different things are this school year, and more on how to navigate the present moment.

 

While this upcoming school year will look different than last year, we are confident that your son can maintain his academic success with ongoing support. During these unusual times, The Blue Heart Foundation is here to help parents and students alike. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each and every one of you as we start this upcoming school year. Learn more about how we support our students with programs and resources here.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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College Admissions: The Hard Truth

College Admissions: The Hard Truth

by | Education

The Problem With College Admissions and How Blue Heart is Beating The Odds.

Recently, Felicity Huffman’s daughter was accepted into the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University – just over a year after her parent’s involvement in a high profile college admissions scandal. In early 2019, the government investigated actors, business tycoons, and other super wealthy parents in a college admissions investigation known internally as Operation Varsity Blues. More than 30 parents were charged with paying upwards of $25 million dollars in bribes to secure their children’s admissions into elite schools. The lawsuit exposed the long-standing advantages that wealthy applicants have and resurfaced national conversations about racial inequality in college admissions.

 

Millions of high school students participate in what should be a fair process of applying to college every year. In reality, millions of underserved youth have to face racial inequality in college admissions. There are barriers of entry and systemic discrimination that prevents some students from having a college application as competitive as their peers. Typically, college applications consist of an application form, a personal essay (or writing sample), the student’s academic transcript, recommendations from teachers or community members, and, most controversially, standardized test scores.

 

Many colleges require standardized testing, which in and of itself is discriminatory. Tests like the SAT and ACT cost from $50-$100 and are administered outside of the classroom. While some students are able to purchase the official study guides (priced anywhere from $15-$40), take prep classes and spend hundreds of dollars on retesting and expediting scores, other students don’t have the means. Some students may not have the advantage of choosing which scores to use on their college application because they can only afford to take the test once, if at all. Additionally, students with jobs after school may not have the time to dedicate to studying or extra prep classes. This can be a larger issue when schools, funded by property taxes, don’t have the same resources to help students in lower income neighborhoods prepare for these tests. Underserved youth that do have the opportunity to take the SAT or ACT are also subject to an achievement gap.

 

Throughout history, students with different racial or ethnic backgrounds have notable scoring gaps on large-scale standardized tests, like the SAT.

Specifically, the black-white achievement gap has persisted for almost a century. From data publicly available by the College Board, the scores of black students have consistently been clustered on the lower end, while white students have maintained a relatively normal distribution throughout the entire score range. This can be attributed to the culturally biased language and format of standardized tests. Ultimately, what is meant to assess aptitude, actually assess how quickly a student can guess what the test maker determines as the correct answer. Because standardized testing is primarily used to determine merit-based scholarships, this achievement gap has further implications on racial inequality in college admissions. If black students can’t score high enough on the SAT or ACT, they are not eligible to be considered for those opportunities.

 

Although some colleges have begun to remove the standardized testing requirement, there are still other monetary barriers to entry, like application fees, that exist and perpetuate racial inequality in college admissions. Each college can choose how much to charge – some colleges, especially the more elite colleges like Stanford University, charge an application fee as high as $90. At this point in the college application process, families of underserved youth may not be able to afford these application fees, which gives an unfair advantage to students of families in higher income brackets, as the 2019 college admissions scandal shows.

 

A report from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) found that students whose parents are in the top 1% are 77 times more likely to attend an elite college than students whose parents are in the bottom 20%.

That statistic alone is concerning. When comparing students from both low and high income families, the NBER report found that the students have similar earning potential, dependent on the college they attend. This proves that students from low income families aren’t misplaced in college. But, the lower rates of upward mobility, how often students from the bottom 20% are able to reach the top 20%, show that students from low income families aren’t getting the chance to access college education.

 

With no national measures in place to support underserved youth, there will continue to be racial inequality in college admissions. In 2018, the Trump administration withdrew Obama-era guidance that encouraged affirmative action. Previously, the Department of Justice and the Department of Education issued a joint statement urging colleges to voluntarily consider race in the interest of achieving diversity. But now, some states have even gone as far banning affirmative action. In the absence of national policy, college admissions must challenge the status quo – favoring admission for legacies and students with transcripts decorated with extra curriculars and high standardized test scores.

 

 

The growing racial inequality in college admissions is a problem given the benefits of higher education on under-served youth, especially African American boys. Higher education results in higher earning potential, more career options, and character development for young African American men. Recognizing the importance of higher education in our communities, The Blue Heart Foundation is committed to supporting our students. As a service to our boys, we collaborate with the University of California – San Diego for an intensive SAT prep program, called Students With Academic Goals (SWAG). We help make applying to college more affordable by using the Common Black App and providing access to SAT waivers, as well as CSU & UC application fee waivers.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation boasts a 100% college acceptance rate. Our young men have earned thousands of dollars in scholarships to universities across the country. Contact us today to learn more about how we invest in the educational development of our youth.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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6 Benefits of Higher Education For African American Boys

6 Benefits of Higher Education For African American Boys

by | Education

The Importance Of Higher Education On Black Youth

The gap between female and male enrollment is widest for African American students, according to a 2018 National Center for Education Statistics report. Considering black students are already underrepresented in higher education, this shows a concerning absence of young African American men in college.

 

While some people may think higher education is too much of an investment of time and money upfront, it turns out the benefits consistently outweigh those costs – especially for young African American men. Read on to learn the top 6 benefits of higher education that show the importance of young African American men going to college.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #1 – Expanded Career Options

Jobs for those with only a high school diploma are in trades or more labor intensive. It’s harder for young black men to show their true potential in these positions. Additionally, vocational certifications only prepare you for one trade, and can’t be applied elsewhere without an additional certification.

Job mobility is limited for candidates with only a high school diploma, which can result in young black men being stuck in jobs that might not give them much satisfaction. Higher education typically has general education requirements which allows students to explore different subjects and get a better idea of what they want to do without wasting time, money, or credits.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #2 – Higher Earning Potential

Not only does going to college expand career options, but pursuing higher education unlocks a higher earning potential for young black men. A college degree signals a greater professional capacity to potential employers, which translates to higher salaries.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that men with higher education earn 84% more than men with only a high school diploma. The unemployment rate is also lower for degree holders compared to those with just a high school diploma. African American high school graduates with no college education are more than twice as likely to be unemployed than African Americans with a Bachelor’s degree or higher.

Money isn’t everything, but it provides less financial worries and more control over life. Higher earning potential makes it so young black men can keep their heads above water and even enjoy disposable income and give back to their communities.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #3 – Transition to A Young Man

In addition to having financial independence, young black men gain a sense of self away from home. Developmentally, they have the opportunity to shape their identity, reflect on their own values, and establish how they want to interact with others interpersonally. This provides young black men with a healthy way to have a clear sense of who they are and what type of man they want to be, that is rooted in their own understanding of their values.

Higher education teaches students to think critically in ways that high school doesn’t offer. Building these skills enable young men to make more thoughtful and informed decisions in their personal lives as well as their academic lives. In college, students are taught to be self-motivated, responsive, and most importantly, open to learning from their mistakes.

It’s inevitable that young black men are going to deal with adversity and setbacks in college, but it’s important to allow them the space to figure it out on their own. Not having their parent’s oversight challenges a young black man to step up in ways that he hasn’t before. And as a result, they have the opportunity to transition into the responsible young men that we know they have the potential to be.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #4 – Improved Confidence

Getting to class on time, completing assignments, and participating in group projects are standards that will be set in college. Like-minded, engaged peer groups provide a culture of support that will help African American young men welcome this kind of responsibility. The structure of higher education allows for students to consistently be rewarded for putting in hard work. Having that feeling of

self-assurance and appreciation of their abilities is important in building self-confidence. A sense of control and social support can be transformational for young black men – purposeful living can motivate them to become the best versions of themselves.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #5 – Happier & Healthier

Higher education also provides the opportunity for young black men to enroll in classes and sign up for activities that excite them, without the structured limitations of high school. They can meet people from various backgrounds and cultures that have similar interests, in addition to discovering new interests they didn’t know they had.

For decades, it’s been well established by institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that educational attainment improves health and life expectancy. Greater educational attainment is associated with health-promoting behaviors like eating fruits and vegetables and doing regular physical activity.

This is extremely important for African American men, who have a lower life expectancy than their white peers. Completion of higher education is key to having adequate food, housing, insurance, and other basic necessities for a happy and healthy life.

 

6 Benefits of Higher Ed For African American Boys | #6 – Become A World Traveler

Travel can be one of the best learning opportunities outside of the classroom. Through study abroad programs, alternative spring breaks, and internship opportunities around the country, students can make global connections.

Traveling is a great way to grow as a person – meeting new people, experiencing different cultures, and learning how to go about daily life in a foreign place are all great ways to develop personally and professionally. No matter where your student enrolls, leaving what they’ve always known is the first step in discovering where they fit in the world.

 

Higher education expands career options, boosts earning potential, and helps develop character for young African American men.

Whatever the path, higher education can help young black men get there. The Blue Heart Foundation is focused on the empowerment and education of under-served youth, and we believe that college education can change a community. We provide our young men from disadvantaged backgrounds with academic support, financial assistance, and leadership training to become first generation college students.

With a 100% college acceptance rate, our young men have earned thousands of dollars in scholarships to universities across the country. Contact us today to learn more about how we can provide students with the tools to succeed and excel in today’s academic and social environment.

 
Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

If you found value in this article please...

COMMENT AND SHARE!

YOUR DONATION COUNTS! Support Us Here

Support The Blue Heart Foundation as we Educate and Motivate Our Youth! 

 

 

 

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Blue Heart Featured in KPBS Article

Blue Heart Featured in KPBS Article

by | Education

San Diego Mentorship Program Helps Boys Go To College

UCSD campus on April 6, 2019. Original Article by By Anica Colbert, Ebone Monet https://www.kpbs.org/news/2019/apr/11/san-diego-mentorship-program-blue-heart-foundation/

 
The Blue Heart Foundation celebrated its fourth annual signing day at UC San Diego last Saturday. The event announces which colleges the Blue Heart students decided to attend. According to its website, the nonprofit focuses on empowering under-served high school students in San Diego County and it aims to help at-risk youth get into college. Blue Heart founder and CEO Tracy Morris talked about growing up in San Diego and his own need for strong role models.
 
“I grew up in southeast San Diego without a strong father figure, and a lot of things that people say is that there is a need for male role models. With that being said, I kinda looked at what I needed as a young person, or as a teenager growing up, to help me focus on my goals, to be able to provide new experiences and just a guideline to what I wanted to do with my life.
 
And I think most importantly, I just wanted someone or somewhere that I could consistently go to, that I knew would be there,” said Morris.  
 
Morris and graduating seniors Amir Duke and Kylen Dent sat down with KPBS Evening Edition host Ebone Monet to talk about how Blue Heart made an impact on their lives.
 
November Workshop – Careers in Politics & Code Switching

November Workshop – Careers in Politics & Code Switching

by | Education

November 17th, 2018 University of California San Diego – The Blue Heart Foundation held our monthly personal/professional development workshop. This month we focused on Careers in Politics, the importance of image and the UC application process. Our presenters came with a wealth of knowledge and we believe both sides grew from the experience. 

Tony Young and Omar Passons discussed the political process and importance of civic engagement. Both advised our youth that their political attitudes are shaped by their unique experiences and diverse backgrounds, so it’s essential that they learn more about politics and get involved so they can channel their energies towards effecting a positive change.

Touching on the point that if they are engaged in politics, they will be more likely to serve in their communities in areas such as health, education and charity work. This level of involvement will continue as they grow older and the years of experience will refine their understanding of how civil engagement in our country works—especially when they are able to vote, sign petitions, and even run for office themselves.

Taryell Simmons presented on the importance of image and discussed “code switching”. Code-switching is a fundamental and even vital component of the human language. There are both social and professional benefits to changing the way in which you speak based on who you are speaking with. It is important for people to feel comfortable throughout all of the different groups in their lives, and code-switching is they a way to stay connected to all of these groups at once. Even the Past President of the United states President Barack Obama understands the importance of code switching. Back in January of 2009, president elect Barack Obama went to get lunch at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Ben’s Chili Bowl, is a famous restaurant in a historically black neighborhood. After paying for his food, the cashier asked the President if he would like his change, to which he replied “Nah, we straight”.

Kyler Nathan IV (UCSD Admissions) provided information on the UC Application Process. The college application process can seem intimidating, especially if students don’t have parents or siblings who have already been through it and can offer advice. Mr. Nathan noted that since there are so many steps, such as writing an essay and obtaining letters of recommendation, a good way for students to get started is to create a to-do list during their junior year of high school.

“Once you can see it visually, the number of tasks and a schedule to do them, it simplifies a lot of things and It will take away a lot of the anxiety.” Though there is often prep work that happens beforehand, students generally begin filling out college applications the summer between their junior and senior year of high school. Though today was an overview of the process for all, one can never start preparing early enough for the steps required  to move towards higher education.