Posted by: Admin at July 5th, 2007
The college application process can feel quite overwhelming. In a sense, it is the biggest organizational project that a high school student has ever undertaken. It is a compilation of grades, test scores, recommendations, and personal details that can lead to stress if left to the last minute. Therefore, it is crucial that a student stay organized and set a schedule so that he/she can tackle each piece of the application process one step at a time. But it is important to acknowledge that each step is different and therefore requires different skills.
Personal information. This section of an application is often the easiest to fill out and not a bad place to begin if a student is feeling anxious about the application process. Though it is not as intellectually stimulating as other sections, the feelings of accomplishment once marked off of the list are just as real.
Personal essay. This section required much time and the student should expect to write several drafts. Start by brainstorming creative ideas that will grab the admissions counselor’s attention, then write an outline. After the first draft a student should find an adult or a trustworthy peer to edit the piece. A final edit will complete this process. Make sure that the student doesn’t rewritten piece already written for school: it is important that the essay really answer the question addressed in the application as well as be a well written, sophisticated piece.
Test scores. Be sure to research ahead of time to see what test scores the school requires. It may be either the ACT or the SAT. Then make sure to study! Even if the test taker is an excellent student, these tests are in a particular style that is easier to score higher on when a student is familiar with this style. Also the tests last for several hours so taking practice test can help you build up the mental “endurance”.
Recommendation letters. Although this part of the application seems like the least work for the student, it needs to be one of the first steps on the checklist because teachers are busy! Teachers need time to write a good recommendation so give them the form provided by the school as well as a pre addressed, stamped envelope. Also, do not be afraid! High school students are still maturing and may feel awkward asking a teacher to do this favor for them. Remember that this is part of their job description and most teachers embrace the opportunity to help out their good students.
Resume. It helps to write out a resume to highlight a student’s skills, work and volunteer experience, and extra curricular activities. This is an opportunity to show off and let the school know what a motivated, well-rounded candidate the student is.
Staying organized, and taking each application step by step is truly the key to a stress-free application process.
Posted by: Admin at June 27th, 2007
Second term is finally over. Yearbooks and final exams have been exchanged for free time and travel. Though education may be the last thought on the minds of high school students and parents during the summer months, it is crucial to keep focused. College is just on the horizon for all students who have the desire and drive to go. However, it is crucial to stay educated about the application process and organized no matter what time of year it may be.
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Assess current standing. Much of what is crucial on a student’s application are already part of the student’s high school routine. What is the student’s grade point average or GPA? Many college admissions websites will include the average GPA of their accepted applicants to help the student decipher whether this school is within his/her range. In addition, colleges look at a student’s participation in extra curricular activities. Schools want students who will make positive additions to their school community. Remember that these extra curricular activities can be great leads when looking for scholarship ideas.
- Plan. Now that the student has taken into account where he/she stands, plan ahead. Plan to take entrance exams (SAT/ ACT) for the first time in the spring of your junior year. Then there is the option to retake it if the student unsatisfied with the end results. Schools will look at the best verbal and math score– even if the scores were obtained on two different occasions. To help with preparation, every library and bookstore will have books with practice tests and software. In addition, the test websites are excellent resources. For even more instruction, there are special prep courses that offer rigorous class work, homework, and practice tests. Often community centers will offer free or reduced price courses if the private course cost is extravagant. Lastly, at this point it is time for the student to ask up to three of teachers for recommendation letters. These are going to be necessary on most applications so the student should ask early to give teachers plenty of time.
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Proceed. Now it is time to apply. Students can call or go online to contact the schools they have selected to request an application. It is important not to overextend themselves students should only apply to as many schools as they can comfortably handle for each application requires careful time and effort. They should think of applying to a range of schools, from a “safety school” where this student is confident he/ she will be admitted to, as well as a school that is more of a challenge. If the thought of the application fees adds economic stress, students and parents should contact the school to see if they qualify to have the fee waived. Also look into the Common Application if the student is applying to many schools– then they can fill out the personal information section only once and save valuable time.
Remember to research, stay organized, and set a schedule. Good Luck!
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