LiveWorld Transcripts

CosmoGIRL! presents

Brooke Barr
Kaplan Crash Course for College

October 18, 2000

Brooke Barr answers questions about the college admissions process and shares tips on taking the SAT and filling out applications.

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CosmoGIRL: Welcome to our chat with Kaplan academic advisor Brooke Barr This chat is sponsored by CosmoGIRL! --a magazine for REAL girls with REAL issues. Log on at www.cosmogirl.com!

Brooke Barr: Welcome! I look forward to answering all of your questions about the college admissions process.

Scared Silly: How many times should I take the SAT?

Brooke Barr: Hopefully only once. Wait until you get your test scores deciding to take the test again. And be sure to allow yourself time to thoroughly prepare yourself before the second or third time. I do not recommend taking the test more than three times if at all possible.

Lance: Can you tell us a bit about Kaplan?

Brooke Barr: Yes. Kaplan is the world leader in test preparation and admissions. We offer private tutoring classes and online courses for over 20 standardized exams. We also offer expert Admissions Consulting Services.

Lowell: How long have you been with Kaplan, and what motivated you to pursue this field?

Brooke Barr: I have been with Kaplan since 1987. I started as a teacher, and have always enjoyed helping students do their best.

Jolly Molly: Is it okay to apply electronically or do colleges still prefer the paper applications?

Brooke Barr: It is definitely okay to apply electronically. The schools appreciate less paperwork.

Avec Moi: Is the common application a good idea?

Brooke Barr: Yes, it is. It can be a tremendous resource to apply to more than one college at the same time.

Busy Brat: How do I register to take the test?

Brooke Barr: If you need to register for the SAT exam, you can register online at www.sat.org

Skoots: How many subjects do The Boards cover, and what are they?

Brooke Barr: The College Board consists of two different sets of exams. The SAT I is a general test of math, and verbal skills. The SAT II tests are individual tests in subject areas like Math, French, Writing and Biology.

Bookworm: How long in advance should I start to prime myself for The Boards?

Brooke Barr: For the SAT I, we recommend giving yourself plenty of time. Starting as early as four to six months before the exam. That's the recommended length of time. For the SAT II exams, these more closely follow what you have been studying in high school. So only a few weeks of review should be enough to help you do your best.

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