Siena College Admissions

Let's Check it Out!

2010-10-12T10:19:00.003-04:00

Join Admissions Counselor, Dale, and Art Director, Serge, as they explore all the wonders and amenities of the Foy Campus Center!

How To Deal With Your Parents While Applying to College ;o)

2010-08-05T15:53:00.008-04:00

We polled the admissions team for their best college search advice. What was their most frequent choice? How to deal with your parents!

Mom and Dad mean well... so here are a few tips to help you and your parents successfully navigate the college search together:

1. Don't let your parents call us for you. Actually, our favorites are the parents who call and PRETEND to be you. Ha! We can tell. ;o)

We're not that scary and we think it's awesome when a student calls for the answer to their own question - so ask away!

If you have to leave a message, don't forget to leave your full name and phone number. Speak slowly! Spell your name if it isn't an easy one. Want a laugh about this? Check out Kevin James' skit below - start at 5 minutes and 30 seconds!

2. Don't let your parents fill out your application. Sorry boys, but it's even more obvious for you when Mom's pretty script is on every line. YOU are applying to college, not your parents, so make sure you do the work.

3. Don't let Mom or Dad write your essay! Seems obvious, right? You'd be surprised. Mom and Dad are great editors and give awesome feedback - but you should be the author. Keep in mind that aside from a visit, your essay is the best way to let us get to know you - the real you behind the GPA and SAT scores. So pour yourself into your essay so that we get to know YOU, not Mom or Dad.

4. It's OKAY that you don't know what to major in. It's OKAY that you don't know "what you want to be". REALLY! Parents want the best for their kids, and sometimes they translate "best" as "really high-paying job" or "doctor" or "lawyer" or "CEO". College will prepare you for a job or grad school and you will end up being exactly what you want to be, but sometimes you need more time to figure it out and we get that. College is about trying new things, learning new concepts, and expanding your mind, so take your time and don't stress!

Summer Days at Siena are here again!

2010-06-16T10:39:00.004-04:00

Join us to explore campus and enjoy lunch, discover programs that fit your unique interests, meet students and professors, get tips on applying to Siena, and learn how Siena works to make our education affordable.

July 19, 22, 26, 29, 2010

10:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

3 Easy Ways to Kick Off Your College Search This Summer

2010-05-26T10:25:00.006-04:00

Rising juniors and seniors! Summer is finally in sight. School is almost over. Vacation is on the horizon.

This summer, as you dig out your flips flops and frisbees and SPF, consider this short list of tasks to add to your summer plans and to aid your college search.

1. Request Information. Most school's websites will have a place to fill out your information in order to start receiving mail and e-mails. Request Info from Siena.

2. Schedule a visit. Whether it's a program (like Siena's Summer Days) or an interview with an admissions counselor, the summer is the perfect time to visit. Siena's Visit Page.

3. Join the network. Did you know that most colleges are on Facebook? Become a fan of the college pages you're interested in. Then receiving information is as easy as logging on. Siena Admissions on Facebook.

We think we're pretty funny... do you? ;o)

2010-04-25T00:32:00.003-04:00

Our admissions and financial aid team decided to ham it up to show students how they should (or shouldn't) dress for a college interview. Can you guess what movie this is based on?

Junior Jump-Start

2010-04-12T10:48:00.004-04:00

Yesterday we welcomed nearly 250 families to campus for our Junior Jump-Start program!

If you attended the program and didn't make it to all of the information sessions, you can flip through them all below. It was great to have you!

If you missed the program, you can also enjoy the presentations below. Also, see what other visit opportunities are coming up. We hope to see you soon!

As always, if you have questions, please feel free to leave a comment, or e-mail us at admissions@siena.edu.

And don't forget to find all of our social media platforms at www.rusiena.com.

Finding the Right College Athletic Program

2010-04-12T10:42:00.003-04:00

Everything you need to know about selecting a college athletic program, communicating with coaches, and the NCAA Eligibility Center.

Financial Aid 101

2010-04-12T10:40:00.003-04:00

An overview of the financial aid process, scholarship, grant programs, financing options, and more.

"Friending" Your Future

2010-04-12T10:37:00.005-04:00

Find out how Facebook, YouTube and other social media can put you ahead of the game.

Making Your Application a WOW!

2010-04-12T10:36:00.005-04:00

It's all about first impressions. Learn what you can do right now to make your application stand out in the crowd.

The College Interview: Putting Your Best Foot Forward

2010-04-12T10:34:00.003-04:00

What should I wear? What should I ask? What makes a good interview? What makes a bad one? We've got the answers!

Career Connection: Does Major Matter?

2010-04-12T10:33:00.005-04:00

How do you go from college to your dream career?

Admissions Committees: What Are They Looking For?

2010-04-12T10:27:00.003-04:00

It's more than grades and SATs. Find out about the importance of your high school curriculum.

2010-03-31T16:45:00.003-04:00

Just a quick blog to share another blog! Chelsea Diana is a local high school senior and student blogger for the Times Union. This is an awesome (and funny!) blog on how to make a college pro/con list in order to make your best decision. Check it out here!

March Madness in Admissions

2010-03-24T09:38:00.012-04:00

Hi Readers!

Thanks for checking in! March Madness around Siena's Admissions Office isn't just in reference to basketball.

Sure, we cheered on the Saints as they danced to Spokane, Washington. (Okay, we may have even left work early to watch the game).

But we're also in the middle of one of our busiest and most important phases of the admissions process.

Here's what we're up to:

1. The Class of 2014 is admitted! That means all of our decision letters are in the mail. Now it's time to convert our admitted students to confirmed students. We are hosting receptions off campus, Shadow Days on campus, making phone calls, sending e-mails, whatever it takes to gain those future Saints!

2. Financial Aid packages are on their way. Our FA staff is BUSY crafting packages for each and every student based on their individual circumstances. It's quite the job! Remember, they don't create packages for new students alone, but the whole student body! Yikes!

3. Spring is in the air! And so is the spring travel season! Our admissions counselors are hitting the road and visiting high schools to recruit... you guessed it, JUNIORS! We're also gearing up for a huge program on campus dedicated to giving juniors a jump-start on their college search. You can learn more about that here.

Phew! It's crazy over here - but we love it!

Want to learn more? Join us from the comfort of your own home every Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. Instant Message "SienaAdmissions" - ask a question or just say hi!

Late Night with Jimmy Fallon chooses Siena to go all the way in the NCAA tournament!

2010-03-18T11:19:00.002-04:00

Be sure to watch tonight for more Siena on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon!

12:35 a.m. ET on NBC.

"YouTilizing" YouTube in your College Search

2010-03-12T09:25:00.012-05:00

Well, it's about that time. Admissions committees are in the final hours of file review and sending out the last of the decision letters.

You may find yourself anxiously awaiting the last few or agonizing over which "yes" to say yes to. For over a year we've dedicated this blog to helping you find the college that's right for you, and we still have advice to share!

Since you're probably stressing about receiving decisions and making your final choice, we thought we'd lighten things up and give you one simple way to do a little last minute research...

That's right, the same website that brought you "Charlie bit my finger" can also take you to college from the comfort of your own home. So, yes, we still want you to come visit... but in the meantime, make some hot chocolate, cuddle up on the couch and view away.

Here's how Siena uses YouTube just for you:

We take video of everything! We are "those people" who show up to the dining hall with our camcorders in hand, so you can see the real Siena for yourself.

We have our own YouTube channel. This channel is ALL of our videos; from the virtual tour to students rushing the basketball court at the MAAC championships, we house all of our videos in one place for your viewing convenience!

We post our videos everywhere. If we want you to see it, we will post it. You can find YouTube links from our homepage, on our Facebook, and in our e-mails! Feel free to click, we put them there for a reason. ;o)

Here are some of our favorites:

Don't forget you can find more here: Siena's YouTube Channel

Applying For Financial Aid - The FAFSA

2010-01-20T15:39:00.004-05:00

With the start of a new year comes new opportunities, new resolutions and the green light to complete your FAFSA for next school year.

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the most common aid application used by colleges and universities. Depending on the schools that you have applied to, additional financial aid applications outside of the FAFSA may be required. It is recommended that you speak with the Financial Aid Office at the colleges you have applied to if you have any questions about what aid applications are required.

At Siena College, the only aid application that is required is the FAFSA.

To help you prepare for completing your FAFSA, let’s review some FAQs that our office receives during this time of year.

Is the FAFSA an application for the student or parent?

The FAFSA is the student’s financial aid application. Although financial information is required for both the student and parent, the application is being filed for the student. For example, if there are two students in the household that will be attending college, each student will submit their own FAFSA application.

Why can the FAFSA not be submitted before January 1st?

For students that are planning on attending college in the fall, your FAFSA will be completed using tax information for 2009. Therefore, you must wait for 2009 to come to a close before completing your FAFSA.

What type of information will you need to provide on my FAFSA?

The FAFSA requests information for both the student and parents. This information includes a combination of demographic and financial information. A large majority of the financial information will come directly from the 2009 tax forms.

What is the best way to complete and submit my FAFSA?

The fastest way to complete your FAFSA is online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Completing your FAFSA online provides you with several benefits including; online help, faster processing time and the ability to submit corrections if necessary. By submitting your FAFSA online, you and your parents will need to “sign” your FAFSA using your FAFSA PIN. You and your parents can apply for a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov.

When should the FAFSA be filed by?

It is recommended that your FAFSA is submitted by February 15th. By completing your FAFSA by this deadline it will allow enough time for your FAFSA to be processed and sent to the schools that you have listed on your FAFSA.

Remember to take your time when completing all aid applications. By reading the applications carefully and gathering the required information ahead of time you will be better prepared to submit your applications on time.

You’re in! Now what?

2010-01-20T10:15:00.008-05:00

For months you’ve been filling out applications, meeting with your school counselor and driving long distances while your parents grill you about what you want to be, not when you grow up, but right now. You’ve learned about graduation rates and student body sizes. You know what FAFSA stands for and how to recalculate your GPA. You’re a pro-applier and it’s obvious in your well-deserved stack of acceptance letters.

Congrats!! You did it! Game over! Now you can sit back, relax, and let those colleges come to you!!

Sort of.

The bad news: The game really isn’t over once you’re admitted.

The good news: the ball is in your court and the steps you have to take post-acceptance are more fun and less anxiety-ridden.

More good news: we’re still here to help.

If you’re admitted and you know where you’re going:

Step 1: Send in your deposit. The sooner you send this in, the sooner you can apply for housing, fill out your health forms, and start getting mail and updates from a whole new population of college representatives like Res Life, Campus Programs, Faculty and more.

Step 2: Join any available online networks your college of choice may have in place. At Siena, for example, we have our own “Facebook-like” social network where admitted students can meet each other, join discussions, post pictures, etc. You can also find “Class of 2014” groups for almost every college on the real Facebook.

Step 3: Fill out your FAFSA and any other required Financial Aid forms. The sooner you do this, the better chance you have of receiving aid. Your parents will most likely have to help you with this, so set a date and don’t let them forget!

Step 4: Read your mail and e-mail! As much as we’d love to give you all the information you need in a 140-character tweet, there’s far too much that you just need to know. So read carefully and ask questions if you have them! We’re here to help.

If you’re admitted and you don’t know where to go:

Step 1: Don’t panic! You have until May 1^st to make your decision.

Step 2: Schedule a visit. Yes, again. Admissions Offices have programs designed for admitted students that are different from those for prospective students. Chances are, you can spend a day shadowing a current student or even stay overnight. Take advantage of these!

Step 3: Join any available online networks your schools may have in place. At Siena, for example, we have our own “Facebook-like” social network where admitted students can meet each other, join discussions, post pictures, etc. You can also find “Class of 2014” groups for almost every college on the real Facebook. You do not have to be committed to a college before joining these networks. They will help you learn about the school and its students. They'll also help you meet other undecided students just like yourself.

Step 4: Fill out your FAFSA and any other required Financial Aid forms. The sooner you do this, the better chance you have of receiving aid. Your parents will most likely have to help you with this, so set a date and don’t let them forget!

Step 5: Read your mail and e-mail! As much as we’d love to give you all the information you need in a 140-character tweet, there’s far too much that you just need to know. So read carefully and ask questions if you have them! We’re here to help.

The bottom line is that whether you’ve made your decision or not, being admitted doesn’t mean the process is complete. Follow the steps above and ask for help if needed. Before you know it, you’ll be right where you’re meant to be – probably reading a blog about surviving your first midterms!

Financial Aid at Siena ..... Siena's Accepted Student Network ..... Visit Siena

5 Myths About Transferring

2010-01-11T10:49:00.008-05:00

Thinking about transferring to a different college? You’re not alone! Approximately 30% of college students transfer to a different school. The transfer process is an important one, but it does not have to be a chore! There are plenty of resources out there for you, so take advantage of them and enjoy the payoff when you are happy at your new school. Don’t let these statements below come true, educate yourself!

Myth #1: “I’m planning to transfer, so what I do now doesn’t matter.”

It’s never too early to start planning your transfer process. Although you may have intended to spend two years at your community college, or four years at your current University, you should begin making plans as soon as you know transferring is in your future. Always register for classes with “transfer” in mind and keep your grades up! It is vital to do well academically in order to make a change instead of staying stuck where you are.

Myth #2: “I can’t afford to transfer!”

Don’t get stuck on sticker price! Many private institutions can be just as competitive if not better in some cases with financial aid and scholarship packages. Don’t make cost your 1st reason for excluding or including a college in your search.

Fill out your FAFSA and any additional forms needed.
Schedule an appointment with the financial aid office to ask about scholarships and deadlines.

Myth #3: “The process is too confusing, I’ll never get in.”

Simplify the process and increase your chances of acceptance with three steps:

1. Research

What does it take to get in? You’ll find that most colleges are very clear about their GPA requirements as well as what documents they require.

2. Visit

Meet with Admissions to find out specific information about your major, campus life, and which credits will transfer. Get to know the school and let the admissions rep get to know you!
Take a Tour

3. Stay Organized

Know deadlines
Label all documents with your full name and date of birth
Follow up to make sure your documents were received
Take your time to avoid mistakes
Write a personal statement, even if it’s not required
Ask for letters of recommendation EARLY
Keep copies of everything you submit
When you call, note who you speak with and keep their contact information

Myth #4: “It will take me FOREVER to graduate on time!”

When you meet with an admissions counselor, ask about the minimum & maximum number of credits that will transfer
Find out how long it will take you to complete your degree, get answers before you enroll!

Myth #5: “I got in, I’m done!”

Once you receive your acceptance letters, the decision might be over, but the transfer process is not.

Follow up with thank you notes and phone calls to those who have helped you along the way (at your new and current school).
Send final transcripts.
Register for orientation to meet new people, familiarize yourself with your new campus and connect with faculty and staff.
Complete any health or Residence Life forms if you are living on campus.

Because the circumstances for each transfer student are different, it is important that you stay involved and active throughout the entire process. Remember that once the transfer is over, you will be a happier college student well on your way to graduation! Good Luck!

To learn more about transferring to Siena, call me, Jen Sloan at (518) 782-6594 or e-mail me at jsloan@siena.edu.

Visit our website.

Deferred Vs. Waitlisted

2010-01-08T10:05:00.009-05:00

Applications are filled out, essays and resume’s are written and all necessary high school documents have been sent! You did it, the application process is complete! Congratulations! Now you sit and wait for one of two decisions; accept or deny, right? Wrong! In addition to accept and deny, there are two additional decisions that a college may make. These decisions are defer and waitlist. They are not bad decisions, but what do they truly mean?

Definitions:

Deferred occurs to early action candidates at Siena and at other schools may occur to early decision or rolling admission applicants. It simply means more information is needed in order to make the best educated decision. Information may include new SAT/ACT scores, mid-term grades to track your senior year progress, additional letters of recommendation, etc. Deferred students are re-reviewed on March 1 at Siena, once all additional materials have been received. It would be wise to check with each school individually to see what their re-review process entails.

Waitlist occurs when a school has the necessary information to make a decision and unfortunately they do not have the space to immediately accept you. If space opens up and the admissions office is able to take more acceptances, you may then have the opportunity to “come off” the waitlist. At Siena, deferred students and regular admissions candidates can be waitlisted. It is best to check with each school you apply to and learn about their waitlist policy.

Even though these two decisions are not the decision you are initially looking for, there are some actions you can take that may bring you closer to that acceptance. What are they?

Deferred students should:

Be in contact with the schools admissions office through email or phone and determine what each school specifically needs.
Send senior year grades to each school (1/4’s, mid-term grades, etc.)
Update schools with new testing scores (SAT or ACT).
Show interest through visiting. This could include tours, interviews or group information sessions.

Waitlisted students should:

Call the admissions office at the school you are waitlisted at and ask about their past waitlist experience. Did they go to the waitlist and if so when? How many students did they accept?
Continue to send your senior year progress, including your final transcript.
Keep an open mind to the schools you are accepted at and consider confirming if May 1 is approaching.

The application process is exciting, yet there are some cases when the outcome you hoped for comes out differently. It’s important to remember there is a school that fits everyone! By reading our previous blogs and using the recommended tips, you are sure to find the school that fits you! Have fun and relax, you will find your new home for September!

The Bonner Service Leader Program at Siena College

2009-12-23T10:22:00.015-05:00

The holidays are upon us and a lot of times I know I find myself thinking about me, me, and all I have to do. It is however a great time to remember those around us who are far less fortunate and therefore a great time to discuss a program that is available to students at Siena that integrates Service Learning into their four year experience.

The Bonner Service Leader Program, a partner with AmeriCorps, was established in 1989. It focuses on the development of college students as they engage in solid commitment to community service.

The Bonner Leader Program focuses and works to strengthen the student’s:

Personal Skills

Leadership Skills

Professional Skills

The Program will provide students the opportunity to:

Have a unique “family” within the larger Siena community
Attend National Conferences (Washington, DC, Florida, West Virginia)
Engage in short term exchanges and service projects
Establish a connection with a community partner
Engage in internships
Reflect on their work in a senior year capstone project/presentation

There are also some financial benefits including work-study funds and the possibility of term awards.

Have I peeked your interest?!? Check out the Bonner Service Leader website. And if you’d like to learn more about this exciting opportunity please contact me at theffernan@siena.edu or the Asst. Director and Coordinator of the Bonner Program, Gretchen Mielke at gmielke@siena.edu.

Senioritis: How to Avoid the Outbreak

2009-12-21T10:35:00.025-05:00

“Senioritis” can be the leading cause of disappointment for high school seniors (and their parents). It is defined by symptoms such as laziness, forgetfulness, or lack of motivation for academics. It can be as contagious as H1N1 and affect the college admissions process. These symptoms can show early warning signs in the junior year. Just like the flu, senioritis can be avoided by following some easy and important guidelines.

1. Take a strong senior year course load. (Load up on your fruits and veggies.)
English, history, pre-calc, physics and a foreign language – these classes are typically considered a complete senior schedule by colleges. Adding some honors or IBs/APs to your course load would only strengthen your application. A person with a strong course load in the senior year has a better chance of being accepted. Every case is different and colleges will look at you individually, but the stronger the curriculum, the better - don't take only what is required.

2. Add leadership opportunities to your resume. (Drink plenty of fluids.)
We see students join lots of clubs in their senior year and check off that they do not plan to continue these activities in college. This is not impressive. Impressive is when a student who loves soccer decides to spend his/her Saturday mornings teaching soccer to six-year olds in the recreation league. Or a student who dances 4-5 hours a day (wow) finds time to help her parent with their grandmother on Mondays. Or the student who attends the National Youth Conference on Law and Justice and when he returns gets friends to join the tutoring program at the elementary school . … the list goes on. Think "Quality over Quantity".

3. Be a senior in high school. (Exercise.)

Have fun but know your priorities and your schedule. Stick with your sports, music and extra-cirricular activities. Just don’t take the SAT the day after prom or homecoming. :)

4. Stay organized. (Wash your hands.)

Planning for college can be an overwhelming or an enjoyable time. It’s a time of family car trips, self-exploration, and good diners. Make sure you take time as a family to meet about the planning process, schedule trips avoiding stressful weeks at school, and do research on the web. The more informed you are, the better the search is.

5. SLEEP! (SLEEP!)

We handle stress better when we have a good night’s rest. This is the golden rule.

Follow these guidelines and you'll be well on your way to a successful senior year and college application process. Often, a lack of motivation is the result of being unfamiliar with the process or feeling overwhelmed with too much information. Don't forget to utilize your school counselor, parents, or admissions contacts if you need clarity or motivation.

What is HEOP - and is it for me?

2009-12-11T11:40:00.002-05:00

There are three different types of “opportunity” programs in New York State:

1. Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP): found at private colleges (examples: Siena, Union, NYU, Columbia, Syracuse, Skidmore, St. Lawrence, and Fordham). There are approximately 60 private colleges in New York State that have HEOP.

2. Educational Opportunity Program (EOP): found at public colleges (State University of New York system (SUNY) and various local community colleges).

3. SEEK (Search for Education, Elevation and Knowledge Program, some colleges may also have a College Discovery program): these are programs found within the City University of New York system colleges (CUNY).

PURPOSE: Opportunity programs are co-sponsored by the State Education Department and colleges and universities across New York State. These programs provide access to college for students who may otherwise not pursue a college education due to academic and/or financial challenges. These programs provide academic support services, including a pre-college summer preparation program, counseling, tutoring and a very generous financial aid package.

Is HEOP for me?

ELIGIBILITY: A student must qualify both academically and financially for a HEOP program and must also be a resident of New York State.

Academic Eligibility: Each institution determines the academic profile for their opportunity program. For example, Siena has enrolled students in our program with high school averages ranging from 72-85 and SAT composite scores between 720-1060 (Critical Reading and Math scores only). All programs are looking for students who are motivated, have potential and are willing to utilize their support services.

Financial Eligibility: The income scale is set by the State Education Department annually. It is based on the number in a family, and the total family income (example: for a family of 4 the income range is $32,790 – $38,360 for students entering college in the Fall of 2010 depending on the family situation). Documentation is required before admission decisions are made.

Opportunity Programs provide access to college, academic support systems and a generous financial aid package for students who live and want to study in New York State.

Still have questions? We are here to help! To learn more about Siena College’s Higher Education Opportunity Program, please visit: HEOP at Siena College or call us at 1-888-AT-SIENA.

2009-12-03T22:30:00.003-05:00

Become a fan of Siena Admissions on Facebook!

What are you going to be when you grow up?

2009-11-30T13:10:00.005-05:00

Applying to Pre-Professional Programs

Over the years, I 'm sure you've been asked that question many times by family and friends. Well, with the college admissions process in full swing, that question surfaces again.

Maybe you still can't provide a specific answer...and that's OK. You should research and visit Liberal Arts colleges, like Siena, where the Liberal Arts are blended with preparation for the professions. These schools will give you the opportunity to explore and learn, developing the potential to be successful at whatever you choose to do.

However, you may know that a career in healthcare, law, business or education is what you want. If you fall into this category, many colleges, including Siena, have pre-professional programs that can guide you on the path to success.

Remember that colleges may not have a specific pre-med or pre-law major, but that doesn’t mean their students aren't graduating to go on to med school or law school. Often, a “less specialized” major combined with a minor can open you up to more opportunitie - making you more diverse and marketable.

At Siena, you can investigate a range of cooperative programs that lead you to the following:

MD, JD, PA, DO, DMD, OD, PT, OT, MBA...just to name a few.

Applying to most of these programs takes place in the sophomore or junior year of college. Consideration is given to academic program (major), requirements (did you take the right classes?), and performance. Some programs require specific testing, such as the MCAT, GRE, DAT, LSAT, etc. It is important to consult the college catalog for specific requirements and other information. Faculty advisors are also extremely helpful as you develop your plans for the future. Siena's close faculty-student relationships often lead to internship and networking opportunities. Of course, you may always contact an admissions counselors for guidance as well!

The important thing to remember is this: a solid liberal arts education is going to get you wherever you want to go, so don't be turned-off by "non-specific" majors and don't think you have to plan out your whole career right now. There's time and we're here to help!

R U Siena?

2009-11-23T10:35:00.001-05:00

AM I TOO LATE? Early Action vs. Early Decision

2009-11-13T15:56:00.005-05:00

Everyone's talking about applying early, getting early decisions, making early decisions; did I miss something?

No, not yet but if you have a good idea of where you want attend college there are two options you may want to consider before December 1st.

The first is Early Action. Early Action is an option offered by many colleges and universities that lets you apply a little early (usually by December 1st!) and receive a decision a little earlier as well, usually between January 1st and 15th. The good news about Early Action is that by applying earlier, you find out whether you've been accepted earlier, but you are not committing yourself to that school by applying that way. You still have until the national decision date of May 1st to make your choice. Also remember, the earlier you apply, the greater interest you express in that school. And we love interest!

The second option is Early Decision. Like Early Action, Early Decision applications must be filed earlier (at Siena the deadline is December 1st). Also like Early Action, Early Decision gets you an admissions decision earlier, usually early January. The difference between Early Action and Early Decision is that you are only allowed to apply to one college using Early Decision and you have less time to make your final decision. At Siena if you are accepted Early Decision you must accept the offer of admission by March 1st.

Early Decision is the best choice for those students who already know where they want to attend college and want to finalize that decision now so they can focus on the end of their senior year in high school. Early Decision is also a good choice for that student who's worried about being accepted to the college of their dreams. Experience has taught us that students who are really committed to their college do better in the classroom!

Are you too late? No, but if your situation sounds similar to those I've described above, Early Action or Early Decision may be an opportunity that you don't want to miss.

Click here for a complete list of Siena's application deadlines.

Taking the SAT or ACT

2009-11-03T10:31:00.007-05:00

Nervous about those dreaded college tests?!

Biting your nails because you have been studying so much you think your heads going to pop off?!! Don’t be afraid!! Those infamous SAT and ACT tests are not as scary as they seem. They are also not the only thing that colleges review to accept a student. So don’t stress!

The ACT and SAT are very different tests: Each having their own style and layout. How do you know which test you’ll do better on?! Both of the tests are standardized college admissions tests and the majority of colleges will accept either test grade. Some schools are now making the test optional so make sure to pay attention to each school’s requirements!

Here is a link about both tests from College Prep:
http://college-preparation.suite101.com/article.cfm/college_admissions_sat_vs_act

Some similarities in the tests are that they are both designed to test a student’s readiness for college.

What is the difference between the SAT and ACT?

SAT:
- A test that examines your reasoning skills
- Has three parts: Critical verbal, math, & writing (each scored out of 800)
- Evaluates thinking and problem-solving skills
- Writing section is mandatory
- Focuses on the use of vocabulary
- Average test length: 3 hours 45 minutes

ACT:
- A Curriculum- based test
- Has four parts: reading, math, science, and English (each scored out of 36)
- Examines topics that have are taught in school (ex. Science)
- Writing section is optional*
- Focuses on grammar and punctuation
- Average test length: 2 hours 55 minutes

How does Siena fit into these scores?
Siena's average SAT score for accepted students is 1160. The average ACT score is 24.

What are Siena College’s school codes?
The SAT Siena code is 2814
The ACT Siena code is 2878

So, when it comes to studying, take advantage of the help! It never hurts to take a prep class!

Here are a few link s which show the different prep options that will help you study.
SAT: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/prep_one/test_tips.html
ACT: http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/index.html

Don’t stress, get plenty of sleep before the tests, and go in as prepared as possible and you will do great!

Have you joined us on Facebook yet??

2009-10-13T09:46:00.007-04:00

Friend our mascot, Bernie St. Bernard for the lastest updates, photos, information and more.

http://www.facebook.com/siena.admissions

Plus, connect with other students considering Siena just like you!

Finding the Perfect Fit

2009-09-12T17:06:00.007-04:00

In “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” four best friends discover that one pair of jeans magically fits all of them - perfectly. While most young women are willing to suspend their disbelief for the sake of a good chick flick, we all know that it’s hard enough to find one pair of jeans that fits you perfectly, never mind your whole posse.

It would be great if you and all of your best friends from high school could just find that perfect school that fits comfortably for each of you, no matter how different you are from one another. Unfortunately, searching for the perfect college is a lot like searching for that perfect pair of jeans, without the magic.

But don’t let the stress of choosing a college cloud your shopper’s sky just yet - there’s hope for girls and guys of all shapes and sizes.

First things first, answer these 3 basic questions:

1. I want to attend a college that is…

a) Tiny
b) Small
c) Medium
d) Large
e) Ginormous

2. I want my college to be in…

a) a city
b) a suburb
c) the middle of nowhere

3. I want to be this many hours from home…

a) Hours? How about minutes?
b) 1-2
c) 3-4
d) 5-6
e) I want to have to fly there.

If you found yourself saying “I don’t know” to one or all of these… it’s okay! Finding the perfect fit doesn’t happen if you don’t suck it up and get yourself into the dressing room… in college lingo? Visit!

College visits come in as many varieties as jeans do; dark rinse, white wash, skinny, boot cut, low rise, and super flare all equal simple, fun and educational experiences like campus tours, group information sessions, interviews, open houses, lunches with faculty, and overnight host programs. Try a few on! If you’re totally clueless when it comes to what kind of school you want, go crazy and pick up a few you’d never wear – you never know how a small private suburban college (like Siena!) or a giant public university may fit. And trust us, we WANT you to visit! So don’t be shy!!

But which ones do you visit?? Well, a little online shopping never hurt anyone. Try College Board’s College MatchMaker where you can create searches based on your own criteria or start going straight to web addresses that end in “.edu”. I recommend starting with siena.edu, of course. ;o)

Here’s another idea – watch your mail. Colleges work very hard and spend a lot of money to end up in your mailbox (and inbox). While we can’t send you buy one get one coupons, we can send you invites to our events or informational brochures (we even call them catalogs!). So park it on the couch and peruse some of that mail. Chances are you can place an order right over the phone to attend an event or ask a question. At Siena we make it easy to reach us:

Call: 1-888-AT-SIENA
E-mail: admissions@siena.edu
IM: SienaAdmissions (every Wednesday from 7-10 p.m.)
Facebook Message: Bernie St. Bernard (our very social and informative mascot)

The most important thing to remember when shopping for colleges (or jeans) is not to stress! Think of us (your friendly admissions counselors) as personal shoppers – ask us to get you a different size, find a matching top, or recommend care instructions. You get the point… we’re here to help you find the perfect fit!

Need a little Financial Aid 101?

2009-08-14T12:57:00.005-04:00

Get it here in three minutes.

It ain't over 'till it's over...

2009-08-12T09:05:00.012-04:00

Junior year is the hardest one, right? And senior year is… vacation! Well, maybe not…

The truth is, when it comes to applying to college, senior year counts.

Think of it this way:

Senior year = the last two minutes of the NCAA Tournament game!

Here are some tips for making your senior year and your college search a win-win.

1. Choose challenging courses: College’s wants to see consistent improvement over four years and a challenging curriculum. Siena requires four years of English and History and three-four years of Math, Science, and a Foreign Language, depending on your intended major (Business majors – this means four years of math!). In addition, AP or honors level classes are great preparation for college and proof that you’ve challenged yourself academically throughout high school.

2. Keep your grades up: Most colleges are going to request your first quarter grades (at least) so it’s very important to work as hard as possible and finish out the year strong. Don’t forget, we see your final grades too – so don’t slack off, even after your acceptances.

Final minutes of the game, don’t let up.

3. SAT/ACT: Feel free to take either test more than once but no later than October 1st.

Fouled on jump shot, a second chance to score some points!

4. Stay involved: Continue to participate in clubs and activities; but don’t try to join too many senior just to fill your resume. Think “quality over quantity”.

As the clock winds down be as active as possible.

5. See your counselor: Meet with your school counselor regularly to make sure your information is organized and arrives to colleges on time.

Final timeout of the game make sure everything is in order - no mistakes!

6. Maintain college contact: Schedule visits/interviews for September-November. Get the business cards of admissions counselors you meet and follow up with a call or e-mail should you have any questions (we love thank you notes too!).

Get involved in the game as many ways as you can.

7. Have fun!

Win the game in crunch time, when it matters most!

Checking In

2009-08-05T10:14:00.007-04:00

Hello Readers!

We hope you've been enjoying our blog and learning from our insider tips and tricks.

Thank you for all of the positive comments! Please feel free to ask us to blog about a particular topic of interest as well - we are happy to give you the information you need most.

Recently, there have been some great news articles about college education. Some have mentioned Siena and some haven't, but we thought you may be interested to read the few below.

Enjoy! And as always, let us know what you think!

Rah, Rah, Resume! Like the schools mentioned in this New York Times article, Siena's Career Center offers lifetime services to alumni. So if you lose your job in twenty years? We've got your back. Click here to visit Siena's Career Center online.

Prospective students are concerned over the cost of tuition. And so are current students! With a depressed economy, even students who are already in college are worrying about making tuition payments and many are forced to consider transferring to schools with lower tuition. In Albany's Times Union, Siena gets a shout out for helping even our current students find the aid they need.

As a Met's fan, this one stings a little. But there is a little sweet in this bitter loss - because this winning Major League Baseball Star is a Siena grad!

Pictured above - Kelly Patterson '12, Alex Evanciew '10, and Neila Lachhander '12, on the patio of Siena's Sarazen Student Union on a beautifully sunny day in Loudonville!

Applying to College with a Learning Disability

2009-07-21T15:29:00.005-04:00

The first question for many parents and students alike is, “Do I, or don’t I reveal my LD to the college admissions office?”

The answer: YES!

Now, let me tell you how….

THE DISCUSSION

Your K-12 LD accommodations are governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (I.D.E.A. - for full text click here). This is legislation focused on the successful completion of high school graduation requirements. Your districts’ responsibility to meet the recommendations of your I.E.P. (Individualized Education Program) is regulated by this document.

While colleges do offer a wide array of accommodations for students with LDs, I.D.E.A. does not extend to higher education. College offices for learning disabled students are focused on students understanding and utilizing the entire scope of resources available to them. However, they are powerless to aid students unless students self-advocate for their needs first.

Therefore, a serious discussion must take place between you, your parents, and your school counselor concerning your progress through high school. Review your accommodations; which resources have you consistently used resulting in positive and successful work? Furthermore, which resources do you believe you need to continue that success at the next level, college? After having this conversation you are ready to speak in more detail to admissions counselors in regards to their college’s resources.

THE SEARCH

Notifying admissions of your LD provides those who review your application with a clearer picture of your academic experiences. After being accepted, some families release the students 504 Plan and achievement tests for review. After confirming with an institution, it is left to the college students to contact the LD office and requested accommodations. Examples of accommodations offered at many colleges are extended time, note takers, and read instructions/questions, to name a few.
Although resource rooms may not be an option, understanding your need for access to faculty members and other academic support services can be intricate to your search.

For example, at Siena where the average class size is 21, professors are readily accessible in class or during office hours. Siena offers students support at our Counseling Office, Tutoring Services, and our student-run Writing Center. These are universal services available to all students, but can be particularly helpful to students needing an encouraging mentor or extra help.

Public versus Private

2009-07-07T13:58:00.015-04:00

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No, I’m not talking about displays of affection. I’m talking about college options!

As you conduct your search, you realize you have a lot to figure out. Small vs. big, liberal arts vs. technical, suburban vs. urban vs. rural, your list of options looks like the March Madness NCAA bracket. Where is the ESPN commentary of college admissions?

Mary Buckheit, a 2002 Siena grad and writer for ESPN Page 2, breaks down public versus private in her comparison of Ohio State and Siena before their first round match-up in March of 2009. Choosing a college could be simple if you only had two choices; double overtime or your point guard shooting to win at the buzzer.

We know there are more choices when searching for the college that best fits you. While compiling your list, look at both public and private institutions. Read the mission statement of the college and underline the words that are important to you. Then ask the college officials how those words in the mission are put into action for the undergraduate student.

If reading mission statements for all of the colleges you plan on applying to seems daunting, then try this route:

Since private and public colleges offer many similar experiences, asking these basic questions will help you discover their differences:

What is your student/faculty ratio and average class size for my major and for core classes? How many of your faculty members teach full-time?

Why? Smaller faculty/student ratios and smaller classes lead to an engaged undergraduate experience. Faculty members know your name and recognize your potential. Full-time teachers at institutions are ready for your questions and are eager to push you; their student. There are endless stories of undergraduates publishing work, taking classes abroad and presenting at conferences with faculty mentors. These relationships and experiences add depth to your resume and increase networking opportunities.

Siena’s answers:
Student/Faculty ratio: 14:1
Average class size for all: 21
Full-time faculty: 178 with 93% holding the highest degree in their field

What is your freshmen retention rate? What is your four-year graduation rate? What is your job/professional school placement after graduation?

Why? Freshmen retention essentially means the percentage of first-year students who enjoyed their experience and are psyched to come back for year two. Graduation rates offer a way to measure students’ success. The students enjoyed their four years and the classes offered and they graduated on time. You don’t want to be a super senior. Lastly, what they are doing after graduation tell us they were prepared for success.

Siena’s answers:
Freshmen retention rate: 87%
Four-year graduation rate: 73%
Job/Graduate school placement: 98%

What is the most active club on campus? What is the second most active? Do you find the students living on campus for their four years?

Why? College is about developing the whole person – academically, socially, spiritually and professionally. You are in the classroom about 15 hours a week. If college is a 40-hour work week, you have 25 hours of unfilled time, not to mention the nights and weekends. That’s a lot of time that needs to be filled with studying, writing papers, listening to speakers, volunteering, joining clubs, planning and attending school events and just hanging out. It’s also a lot of time to learn life lessons outside of the classroom, to figure out what is important to you, and to push yourself to exceed your potential. If you’re at a place that does not challenge you academically or socially, or a place you just don’t like, it’s a lot of wasted time and money.

Siena’s answers:
Most active: Dog Pound – our student cheering section for the basketball games
Second most active: Habitat for Humanity
On-campus residents: 78%

The point is, you don’t have to just rely on the NCAA brackets for your college search. Remember, whether public or private, the only right college is the college that best fits your ability and personality. These questions allow you to navigate the college search and find out if the character of the college best matches your own.

Writing Your College Essay: tips from the people who read them

2009-06-25T15:49:00.014-04:00

It’s time to sit down and write your college essay. Hopefully, you are not in a state of last minute panic, but you are probably a bit nervous and wondering how you can make your essay different from all the rest. Don’t be nervous! The college essay is a great way to show the admissions committee who you are and what you can bring to their school.

College essay questions come in many forms, but they can generally be broken down into 3 categories:

1. The Why You Essay
2. The Why Us Essay
3. The Creative Essay

The Why You essay is exactly what it sounds like, why would you be a great asset to the college? An example of a Why You essay question, taken from the Common Application, is: “Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you.” Think about what you would like us to know that can’t be found on your transcript or resume.

The Why Us essay is about the college to which you are applying. Make sure to research the college before writing this type of essay. An essay about your desire to study at a major research university in the heart of a metropolitan city will make an admissions counselor from a small, rural, liberal arts college wonder why you are applying to their school.

The Creative essay allows you to show yourself off in a unique way. An example of a creative essay question, taken from the Common Application, is: “Describe a character in fiction, a historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science, etc.) that has had an influence on you, and explain that influence.” A writer can have a lot of fun with this type of question.

As you are writing and editing your essay, please keep the following in mind:

1. Answer the question. Applicants tend to write what they think the colleges want to read or may use one essay for several applications. Make sure the essay you are submitting reflects the essay question of the college to which you are applying.

2. Make it interesting. Admissions counselors can read 30 to 50 applications a day. Make your essay the one we pass around the office.

3. The admissions committee can learn a lot about you in 1-2 pages. We know you want to share a lot, but a 10 page autobiography isn’t necessary.

4. Have your essay read by a few people whose opinions you value. Your school counselor, English teacher, parents or even an older sibling are great choices. This also requires having plenty of time for editing, so don't wait until the last minute!

5. Remember that spell check does not catch everything. Keep your eyes open for typos and grammatical errors.

6. If referring to the college to which you are applying, make sure to send the right essay to the right college! We understand that you are applying to many schools, but we never like to see a competitor's name in one of our essays.

Most importantly, have fun! Writing your college essay is not as daunting as it seems. Just remember to start early, write thoughtfully, and never hesitate to ask for help.

Happy Writing!

We All Scream for Ice Cream

2009-06-17T09:50:00.009-04:00

- surviving (and enjoying) the college admissions process -

Completing the college admissions process is a lot like making an ice cream sundae... yes, it can be fun!

The Ice Cream:

For your base, you have numerous resources (or flavors) to choose from:

Your School Counselor: Be sure to talk about…

1. what you’re looking for in a college (How far from home do you wish to be? Do you prefer urban, suburban, or rural? Do you want a big school? Or small? What do you want to study?)
2. your senior courses
3. who will write your recommendations
4. important deadlines

College Guides & Websites:

U.S. News and World Report: Best Colleges
Princeton Review: 368 Best Colleges
College Board
http://www.siena.edu/
http://www.rusiena.com/

The Hot Fudge:

College Visits: Just like hot fudge visits should be fun!
1. Make appointments with different schools. We recommend that you start during the spring of your junior year. Remember, in the summer, college students are on break. So plan spring and fall visits for an accurate impression of the school.
2. Set aside three hours per visit: One hour for an interview with an admissions counselor, one hour for a tour of campus, and one hour to visit the bookstore, have lunch in the cafeteria or visit something further.
3. Pick up materials and take notes of things you want to remember.

For more tips, see Nikki’s last blog, “The College Visit”.

The Whipped Cream:

1. Keep gathering information, like whipped cream, the more you have the better.
2. Start working on your college essay.
3. Attend college fairs and make contacts with admissions counselors (always ask for their business card).
4. E-mail or call the colleges if you have questions.
5. Keep an eye on all application, financial aid, and scholarship deadlines.

The Sprinkles:

1. Start filling out applications and requesting letters of recommendation. Give them plenty of notice along with your resume or activity sheet.
2. In November/December, request your high school transcript and your SAT or ACT scores from the respective testing sites to be sent to all of the college you are applying to.
3. Make sure to fill out any additional components required by that college to complete your application. If you use the Common Application, you may have to fill out a school-specific Supplement.

At the end of the sprinkle process your applications are completed and submitted!

The Candy Toppings:

1. Follow-up with the colleges you applied to. Make sure your application is complete.
2. Continue to still work hard in school. Senior year counts!!

And finally… The Cherry!

1. Your acceptance letters arrive as early as November and through March. Congratulations!
2. Re- visit the schools you’ve been accepted to.
3. Complete the FAFSA and any other financial aid paperwork. The FAFSA should be filed between January 1 and February 15 of your senior year.
4. Take advantage of online chats, accepted student web pages and read your mail.
5. Keep working hard – your grades still count!

6. Prepare for a great four years ahead!

Need help staying organized? Print our College Planning Calendar & Checklist:

Conducting a College Search: Timing is Everything.

The College Interview: It's a Breeze!

2009-05-26T15:44:00.006-04:00

You’re in the car, listening to your iPod, daydreaming about the day on the beach you were suppose to have with your friends. Instead, you are on your way to visit a college where you will be interviewing with an admissions counselor.

A college interview has the potential to be a dreaded experience. That’s why we’ve created this guide to ease your fears and excite you for the journey ahead.

Why Interview?
The college interview is a great avenue to show that you are more than your test scores and grades. It is an opportunity to:

· To show your personality
· To explain any glitches
· To get the answers to your specific questions
· To show interest in the college

Types of Interviews:
Interviews vary depending on the school. You may be interviewed by an admissions counselor, alumnus or current student. The interview may take place on or off campus. If you plan to pursue a specific area of study such as art, medicine or theatre, an interview may be mandatory. When you schedule an interview, take the opportunity to ask questions about how the interview works so you’ll know what to expect and how to prepare.

Good Things to Share in an Interview:
Admissions committees will learn about you through a variety of papers: your transcript, test scores, recommendations and essays, but an interview lets us meet the person behind all the paper. Some things we would love to know about you:

· Leadership positions within your activities
· Community service projects
· Awards or honors that you've received

It is also a good time to explain any glitches in your transcript or discuss any personal circumstances that may have occurred during your high school years. For example:

· You are not the best math student, but you chose to take an honors or AP course. Explain why you chose to challenge yourself.

· Unfortunate circumstances: divorce, illness, or a death during high school. Notifying us of these circumstances allows us to take them into consideration when reviewing your application.

· You have a learning disability. Let us know how you work with it. How has it made you a better student?

Prepare for the interview:
Research the college before the interview. Make sure it offers the majors you are interested in, and its size, location, and other characteristics are in line with what you are looking for in a college. Write down notes about why you want to attend the school. Bring along your transcript and resume for the counselor to reference during the interview.

Prepare Questions! Asking questions shows interest in the college as well as specific programs and opportunities it may offer. Take time prior to the interview to think about what you would really like to know about the school. For example: study aboard programs, internship opportunities, athletics, science facilities, etc.

Some Insider Tips:
Now that you are ready to interview, here are some tips from the interviewers themselves:

· Be on time. If you're late, call the admissions office to let them know.

· Wear neat, comfortable clothing. No need for a business suit, but avoid wrinkled clothes, clothes with holes or anything that might be considered inappropriate.

· Stay away from using slang, swear words, or expressing strong political/religious beliefs. You do not want to offend the interviewer.

· Do not respond to questions with only "yes" or "no". Have thoughtful responses prepared, and don't stretch the truth. If you apply to the college, it will come back to haunt you.

· After the interview ask for the counselor's business card and follow up with a thank you note.

The interview is a great way to gain an advocate on the admissions committee. Remember, it's a conversation; relax, smile, be prepared, and you will be on your way to a successful application process!

Choosing Your Major

2009-05-13T10:21:00.010-04:00

Pop Quiz!

True or False? Your major dictates exactly what your career will be when you graduate.
Answer: False

True or False? Majors must be declared freshman year and may never change.
Answer: False

Did you know…?

· Before entering the NBA, Michael Jordan majored in geography.
· Jay Leno majored in speech therapy.
· Before being a Pretty Woman, Julia Roberts focused on pre- veterinarian studies.
· Golf professional Tiger Woods majored in economics.

The truth is, approximately 80% of college graduates have a job unrelated to their major. Majors are meant to be fun and interesting. They are not meant to narrow down your career path or keep you from exploring your passions. In fact, at Siena, 43% of last year’s freshman class came in undeclared. To help students find their interests, all students are required to take core courses as part of Siena’s core curriculum. These courses develop a well-rounded individual, competent in many disciplines and skills. Examples of core courses include:

· Literary Perspectives
· The Shaping of the Contemporary World
· Philosophy and the Human Being
· Religion in Western Culture
· Introduction to Theatre
· Issues in Contemporary American Education
· The Sociological Perspective
· Environmental Science
· Introduction to Programming

In addition to the core courses, below are some tips and guidelines to help you navigate ways to choose a major:

· Look at your high school transcript. What classes did you enjoy and what classes did you struggle with? This is a good starting point to help you determine which areas of study you can excel in.

· Talk to your school counselor, family and friends. It is often the thoughts and conversations with others that will help spark an idea.

· Check out liberal arts schools. A liberal arts school will give you the opportunity to take courses in different fields of study, broaden your view, and help develop you as a person. Explore the options and keep an open mind!

· Are there any majors that directly relate to the clubs and activities you enjoy?

· Utilize your faculty advisor. At Siena, all students are given a faculty advisor within their school of study. The experienced mentors offer you advice, help you navigate the curriculum and discover your course of study.

It is not your major that will determine if you will be successful. It is the knowledge, skills and experiences you obtain from college that matter most. Individuals with strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as a team player and possess a strong work ethic are highly sought after by employers.

Here are some examples of successful Siena graduates who came in with undeclared majors or majors unrelated to their eventual career:

· Ed Henry ’96, English major, CNN’s senior White House correspondent
· Jim Barba ’66, History major, CEO of Albany Medical Center
· James Scully ’87, English major, CFO of J. Crew
· Jim Nolan ’75, Physics major, Dean of the School of Business at Siena College

Through your experiences inside and outside the classroom, your interactions with others, and patience, you will discover the major for you. Remember, it’s the journey that matters most!

2009-05-06T13:42:00.007-04:00

The Value of a Siena Education:

Siena College is committed to providing access to our undergraduate liberal arts education. Siena’s tuition, on average, is $7,000 less per year than our top 10 private college competitors. In addition, at Siena, 91% of students receive financial aid.

Keeping it Simple:

Applying for aid is the first step. At Siena, we try to keep it simple – you only need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). I recommend that you complete this application on-line for two reasons:

1. Timing – electronic applications are processed faster and your information will be sent to the colleges sooner

2. Edit Checks – there are built in edits that review your application for illogical responses, which dramatically reduce the number of errors on applications.

You can complete the FAFSA after January 1 of your senior year in high school. You should try to file as close to February 15 as you can. This will allow us to put together your aid package and send it to you by the first week in April.

Find the FAFSA here: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

Considering the Bottom Line:

Once we receive your FAFSA, we will determine your eligibility for federal and state aid as well as aid from Siena College. These sources in combination will make up your financial aid package. A few things to keep in mind when reviewing your aid offers – pay careful attention to what you are going to have to pay – after your aid – to attend your college. This is often called the “net cost”. It is also important to be aware of what each of the sources of aid in the package are – grants and scholarships vs. loans and work options.

Staying in Contact:

If you have circumstances that cannot be reflected on the FAFSA, make sure you let us know. We will take into account changes in your family’s financial circumstances that may impact your ability to attend Siena. It’s best to notify us in writing; an e-mail or letter to the financial aid office describing the circumstances is the best place to start.

Keep up the good work:

As your approach the next academic year – keep up the good work! The classes you take and the grades you receive in those classes can increase the options available to you.

Other Resources for Financial Aid:

· Use your guidance office as a resource for local scholarship
opportunities.
· Use the Internet to search for private scholarships to apply for.
Try the links below:

http://www.finaid.org/
http://www.fastweb.com/
http://www.hesc.com/ (for New York State residents)

Finally, stay in touch with us – we are here to help throughout the process!

To contact Financial Aid at Siena:
Call 1-888-AT-SIENA
or email aid@siena.edu

For another look at Financial Aid at Siena, meet our Associate Director, Priscilla Armsby, and learn just how easy the financial aid process can be.

The Mini Marathon: Taking the right strides now, for a strong finish later.

2009-04-21T14:20:00.018-04:00

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The college search and selection process is like a "mini marathon"; a concentrated effort to reach the finish line - enrolling in the college that fits you best. You should begin to prepare now, because the choices you make now will matter in the "long run".

We encourage you to engage and be active in this process. By doing so, you will not only learn about yourself, but you will inevitably find the college that meets your needs - both academically and socially. The quality of your academic and personal experience is dependent on an organized, thorough and committed college search.

Here are good choices to make early in the race:

· Meet with your school counselor / college advisor to discuss your curriculum, strengths and activities. Be active in this process and select challenging classes which will show colleges you are ready to take the next step. Keep your options open, ask: where are you now and where do you need to be?

· Discuss your standardized testing plan early with your school counselor/college advisor. College requirements vary; some want SAT's and/or some will want ACT's and, in addition, some will expect SAT II subject tests.

· Meet with admissions representatives when they visit your high school, attend college fairs, and above all, ask questions. Admissions representatives want to help. Follow up with emails or call the admissions office if you have questions.

· Start college visits early - this will help you discover what type of college fits your needs. Tour, interview, and attend open house programs. You will be amazed at what you learn!

· Balance your extracurricular activities/community service with academics. Keep in mind that your high school transcript will be the most important document that will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Therefore, don't let one activity get in the way of your academic achievement.

· Demonstrated interest in the college you wish to attend is important. By taking the time to tour, interview, and attend programs will let the college know - "I want to be here."

So – want to set a great pace in the race to college? Follow these suggestions for a steady ready… set… go!

Junior Jump-Start

2009-04-07T21:10:00.008-04:00

Did you attend Siena's Junior Jump-Start Program on April 5? If you left wishing you could have attended all of the information sessions, you can view the presentations from each session below.

Did you miss the program? Below are the presentations our admissions and financial aid experts presented on the college search and application process.

Still have questions? Email us at admit@siena.edu or call 1-888-AT-SIENA.

Making Your Application a WOW!

Publish at Scribd or explore others: web development

Admissions Committees: What are they looking for?

Publish at Scribd or explore others: School Work Business & Law tax foundation

Financial Aid 101

Publish at Scribd or explore others: School Work Non-fiction review financial

Does Major Really Matter?

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Books Science Literature-Literatur Religion-Islam

The College Interview: Putting Your Best Foot Forward.

Publish at Scribd or explore others:

Finding the Right College and Athletic Program

Publish at Scribd or explore others: School Work How-to-Guides & Manu programming college

Conducting a College Search: Timing is Everything.

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Education Other time information

The College Visit

2009-03-27T14:55:00.008-04:00

Facts: India

· the most populous democracy in the world
· four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Janism and Sikhism
· The capital city: New Delhi
· The most populous city: Mumbai

and….

* setting for a really good movie: Slumdog Millionaire

Question: Did you learn more about India from the facts or by watching Slumdog Millionaire?

Answer: Slumdog Millionaire, absolutely! (If you haven’t seen it, don’t wait any longer.)

That’s the same reason you should visit a college; the facts are interesting, the buildings are nice, but what really matters are the people, the students, the faculty and in our case, the Friars! You can’t read that in a brochure and so far neither Hollywood nor Bollywood have accepted our screenplay for a full length feature film about Siena!

So, why is your visit important to an admissions committee?

Because finding the right fit and being comfortable with your decision are the keys to your success in college.

Did you know that when students are active in their college search and visit the college they ultimately attend, they are 10 percent more likely to graduate in four years than a student who didn’t visit?

Here are some tips for a successful college visit:

1. Ask questions: Utilize the admissions counselors, faculty and administrators you meet on campus and don’t forget to ask for their business cards!

2. Talk to the students: It doesn’t get any better than being a college student, but why trust us when you can chat with one and find out for yourself?

3. Stock up on information: Grab those college catalogs, major brochures, literary magazines, and student newspapers.

4. Go to a class: Take the opportunity to sit in on a class or two in topics you hope to major in. Watch the professors bring their years of training and expertise to life for you.

5. Try the food: It's not mom’s, but you may like it!

Want to try these tips at Siena?
Check out the many ways to visit us!

2009-03-21T01:36:00.003-04:00

Did you watch?

We won! Get the recap here: Siena Wins Over Ohio and stay tuned for our next admissions blog: The College Visit.

Learn how important your visit is to an admissions committee - from an admissions committee!

We'll have all the tips you need for a successful (and fun!) campus visit.

2009-03-20T11:21:00.001-04:00

If you're a college basketball fan, you've probably noticed that Siena is playing in the NCAA tournament with it's highest ranking ever at #9.

Our first game? Tonight at 9:40 p.m. on CBS! Be sure to watch and give a us a good S-I-E-N-A!

Even if you don't follow basketball, check out this link to get a sense of what it really means to be a Siena College Saint... Saints Pride

Mail Time

2009-03-16T17:14:00.001-04:00

You’ve just started your college search and your mailbox (or inbox) is overflowing with collegiate clutter. Don’t panic, below are some tips to sort through the mountains of mail and find the perfect fit.

#1 Know what you’re looking for

Until you have a set of general criteria, put the mail aside (don’t shred or delete it just yet). Here’s a helpful link from College Board to help you sort through those first basic questions: College Match Maker

#2 Pay attention to detail

It’s easy to let one scenic view blend into the next, but those pretty postcards don’t want you to make a decision just yet. In fact, they just want you to take a closer look. Put aside the schools that meet your criteria. Not looking to move to Guam? You can toss that one out. But if a picture catches your eye or a phrase appeals to you, read on! You’re in charge, go with your gut.

#3 Embrace your organized side

Once you have a slightly smaller selection, keep it organized. Use a calendar to mark important visit dates and deadlines. Folders are great to separate schools you want to visit from those at the bottom of your list. Keep lists of pros and cons or contact information. Whatever your preference, having a system in place will keep the ever-growing mail pile from becoming an ever-growing source of stress.

#4 If you’re interested, show it

Most mailings are simply tools to gain your interest. If a mailing in your “like” pile has a reply form for more information, send it back. Most schools will send you information based on your specific interests, so filling out those reply cards can be a step in the right direction when it comes to making your mail more manageable. It’s also important to know that colleges track your interest. The more contact you make, the more interest you show, and the more likely a school is to consider you a candidate for admission.

Ready to really take the plunge? Schedule a visit!

Reading Applications

2009-02-24T16:59:00.001-05:00

This time of year, some of you are just beginning your college search, while others are zeroing in on your final decision.

Over the next couple of weeks, our admissions team works late and works hard at reading applications. We want to have all of our decision letters in the mail by March 16.

If you are are just getting started, stay tuned for our next post. It will be about how to sort through all of that college mail that's clogging up your mailboxes and inboxes!

P.S. Don't worry about us too much, we still get to have some fun. A few of us caught our Men's Basketball Team's final home game of the season and got to watch this incredible shot (which made it to ESPN Sportcenter's Top Ten Plays at #2)