While emphasis on standardized tests and core subjects such as reading, writing, math and sciences has reduced the number of out of classroom learning opportunities, the value of learning outside class remains undeniable.
Grade Inflation
In the September/October 2013 Yale Alumni Magazine, an article, ‘Grade Expectations,’ notes that in 1963 10% of the grades given by Yale College were As; today’ 62% are.
This phenomenon is not, by any measure, limited to Yale. Across all campuses, 43% of the letter grades awarded were As. Grade inflation is so rampant that a former Duke Professor of geophysics, Stuart Rojstaczer, created a website, www.gradeinflation.com and is now on the frontlines of battling this academic cancer.
Exploring University 'Special' and Honors Programs
The college admission process offers a lot of choices, possibly too many. Initially, you want a university that's a 'good fit'. Yet, even if the campus is a good fit, does the school offer special programs that might make the fit that much cozier? For example, should you gain admission to Yale, you might want to consider its Directed Studies program-if you have the academic prowess.