Fitness Hacks for Over 50 by Aleisha Fetters

FITNESS HACKS FOR OVER 50 by K. Aleisha Fetters lives up to its promise to provide “300 Easy Ways to Incorporate Exercise Into Your Life.” Most pages have two columns, each with an idea (e.g., Take a Pilates Class, Tap your Toes) followed by a brief explanation and a list of anything you will need (like grippy socks or a good place to sit) along with an estimate of time investment (which can be just a few moments). There is so much from which to choose - I wish that these ideas could be laminated and joined together in a more accessible way – like the old Brain Quest cards for kids.  It’s a good idea to keep FITNESS HACKS FOR OVER 50 in a handy place – as a reminder to MOVE – whether it’s to try some kitchen counter push-ups or to activate your desk with sitting and standing options. Fetters has divided the text into four sections of interest for older readers who want to exercise more: balance and coordination; flexibility and mobility; muscular strength; and aerobic capacity and endurance.  Again, whether you are getting up to change the channels, teaching the kids hopscotch, or sprucing up the yard, there is an activity for everyone. Now off on my two hour walk! Keep counting those steps!

 

College Admission Essentials by Ethan Sawyer

COLLEGE ADMISSION ESSENTIALS by Ethan Sawyer does an excellent job of providing its promised “Step-by-Step Guide to Showing Colleges Who You Are and What Matters to You.” Sawyer encourages learning by doing; he begins with a chapter focused on Essence Objects, Values, and Core Memories Exercises. I was struck by his conversational voice and students will likely appreciate the “you can do this - let’s get to work tone” tone. Throughout the book Sawyer refers to the Treasure Trove of resources on his website which is indeed full of valuable information. In addition, he provides student samples in the book and often defers to another college admissions or counseling expert such as when discussing financial aid, completing the FAFSA, and analyzing award letters. The information in this text is well-organized, with specific chapters on topics like Early Decision and Early Action, Artists and Athletes, First Generation and Low Income students (see his Matchlighters mentoring program), LGBTQ+ students, Transfers and Veterans, plus an appendix with a detailed College Planning Timeline, beginning in 9th grade.

Obviously, this book was written prior to the pandemic’s impact with its shifts towards remote learning, fewer opportunities for traditional extracurricular activities, and restrictions on college visits. However, Sawyer does encourage students to find their passion and that clearly parallels the Making Caring Common Project where in June 2020 College Deans offered suggestions on admissions in response to COVID-19.  Overall, Sawyer understands students, speaks to them effectively, and truly seems to be concerned about them, as when he writes, “I told you at the start of this book my goal was to make this process easier, more fun, and more meaningful. I hope I’ve done that. I also hope this book has helped you discover more about who you are and what you care about.” COLLEGE ADMISSION ESSENTIALS is an exceptionally useful tool that I encourage all of our students to investigate.