How to take SAT test for the Duke University TIP program?

Hi A.,

I did this when I was a child, and while it's probably changed since then, I do remember it being really important to me. I actually ended up attending the University we went to for the awards ceremony. It really motivated me to work toward college and empowered me to believe that I was capabable of doing well, but also of getting scholarships to help me get there. It also halped me when I took the test in high school because I felt more prepared having taken it beofore. I'd let him go for it!

K.

It is really useful and definitely worthwhile. My son (now in 9th) took it two years ago. Since he goes to a private school, he doesn't consider himself very smart because everyone else is also very smart. However, getting the results (he scored over 1000) really helped to send the message that he is indeed very bright. I don't remember the percentiles now, but that score was something like in the 70%+ of high school seniors that took the test. The programs are optional - they are expensive and my son has dietary restrictions that would make the stay-away options difficult. There are some online options, but we still felt that with the school he attends and the activities through school that he has enough intellectual stimulation. I think it really depends on the child as to how much they would benefit from the programs - some kids thrive in that environment, whereas others would rather take it a bit easier during the summer. I also think taking the test at this age which make if far less daunting when they go through the process in high school when it really counts.

I know you will get plenty of responses from parents who have had children take the test. My child is too young still, but I took the test in 7th grade and went to the summer camp (ACES) here at TWU. It was an awesome experience when I was so young and really encouraged me to pursue science and math through high school and most of college. My experience was 17 years ago, but I still remember it vividly.

I participated 18 years ago, and loved taking the test early. It was very eye opening on what I needed to work on the rest of my school career. I was not able to attend any of the classes though, money was very tight when I was young! I say let him do it.

P.

Two of my daughters have taken the SAT through the Duke TIP program. They actually did very well. It is a great tool to help you spot problem areas that you can address in the next couple of years before the real test comes up. We did not do any of the summer things. We have too much going on already. And my husband is uber-protective. So them going away to stay for a week is not going to happen. But the testing experience is a good one. Find out if other kids in the class are going and try to sign up for that location. It helps to see someone you know in line that day.

Girl, you have got to let him do it. My daughter was in the 6th grade and was one of 10 kids from jr. high and high school that were selected. This will not only boost his grades but also his motivation. my daughter was the youngest to be selected and now she is a sophmore taking juniors courses, earning college credits, graduating a year early AND is being sent mail daily from all types of colleges.Her ego is so high when it comes to school it is wonderful to watch. The teachers all love her and come to her for help and advise, she is plaqnning to go to Japan for computer technology and she makes straight a's and is in flag corp. You should let him do it if her wants, You will be so proud to witness this progression and you will not regret it.Good Luck and I hope you go for it!!

A.,

Our 12 year old daughter has been invited to take the test as well. She is doing it just for the "fun" of it. My husband took it when he was in 7th grade as well. He is 36 and remembers it to have been a helpful tool. I say go for it! If nothing else but for the experience. She is taking hers on Dec. 8th. My other two girls are jealous. They believe because they are in the G/T program they should get to try as well. haha! What little do they know.

Sending your son much luck!
Dene' H.

The Duke TIP Program is great! My younger brother recently participated in taking the SAT, but did not attend the camps. I actually participated myself at that age, and did attend the camps at Duke. It really is a fantastic program. The key is to make sure your child understands there is nothing major resting on their test score, and it says a lot about their achievements just to be invited. It will be great for you in the years to come knowing where your child is excelling, or needing more work, and giving them confidence in taking those types of tests in the future. Good luck, and have fun!

I participated in the testing (many, many moons ago). It was a valuable experience. I don't recall any classes or programs beyond the test, so I'm not sure about those. But I would say absolutely, the benefit from taking the test in 7th grade made all those tests at the end of high school manageable -- I'd already taken the big one and did well in junior high! -- so there was less stress and I knew what to expect.

My step-daughter enrolled so that she could take the SAT as a 7th grader. It was an eye-opening experience for her. I would definitely recommend taking advantage of this opportunity!

My daughter tested and loved the experience. She still gets invitations each year to attend different camps and classes you can take online for credit. She is a freshman this year. I highly recommend this program!

My oldest son took the test as well in the 7th grade, He has been in the GT classes since 2nd grade. He is now a Junior and it has helped his test and know what to expect.

He still gets letters from them every year. I say go for it.

Good Luck
M.