Embarking on the college application process can be intimidating. Remember you're not alone. Many of us "grown ups" have been there. Whether you are a current, former, or future student of mine, or just want someone to talk to about college advice, I will always make  time to sit down and listen. Just let me know.

-Dr. O'Malley

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

(Q) "Dr. O: Should I ask you to write a college rec for me?"

(A) If Dr. O'Malley knows who you are, and would likely describe you as someone who actively and regularly participates, earns good grades in class, offers insightful comments, shows a clear interest in science, and overall gives a memorable contribution to the class, then 'YES!' you should ask me! (In fact, HE might ask YOU if you'd like him to write one!)

If Dr. O'Malley doesn't know you very well, or if there aren't many memorable contributions you've made to the class, or if you're performing well below average in the class, he might not be the best person to write your recommendation, and you should seek someone else.

(Q) "How do I get a college rec from you, Dr. O?"

(A) Once I've agreed to write your rec by talking in person (or over video or email if in person is not possible), just add my e-mail to your Naviance list (or any other college application process). I'll be contacted, and I'll take it from there.

(Q) "Do I need to know specific information about you for the rec?"

(A) Many applications ask for information about the recommender and the school. This info is below:

• My name:................................................................... Steven O’Malley

• Title / position:  ......................................................... Teacher

• Phone number:.......................................................... (212) 312-4800

• E-mail address: ......................................................... somalley@stuy.edu

• CEEB/ACT code: ...................................................... 334070

• School name: ............................................................ Stuyvesant High School

• Type of school:........................................................... public

• school address: ......................................................... 345 Chambers St. New York, NY 10282, USA

• number of years teaching: ......................................... 17

• “How long have you known this student?”.................. (It's the same amount of time you’ve known me.)

• “In what classes have you taught this student?”.......... chemistry

• “What are the first words that come to mind…”........... please see attached

(Q) "Dr. O, what kind of stuff do you like?"

(A) That has nothing to do with college recs, but since you asked: Dr. O'Malley loves many things. He loves to run. He loves languages. He loves his job. He also loves the Pentel brand of mechanical pencils, model #P207. He loves fun stamps. He loves chemistry jokes. He loves eggs. He loves York peppermint patties. He loves to spend $5 at Starbucks. But mostly he loves getting short e-mails from students who have been accepted to college that say "Hey Dr. O! Guess what!! I got into (school name) and I'm very excited to be going there!" 

Need more inspiration? Check out what Neil deGrasse Tyson and Alan Watts have to say, respectively, about education and life. I've also linked a college ranking tool made by the New York times that helps you find the best college - for you!