It may be only 500 words, but the admissions essay portion of a college application can mean the difference between acceptance and rejection. How you write your personal essay shows the admissions committee why you are different from everybody else. It provides information about you that test scores, grades, and extracurricular pursuits just cannot. You can use the essay to describe a favorite activity, to tell a story about yourself, or even a story about…
Some colleges require an interview as part of the admissions process but most do not. It is still important for you to visit the college at which you may spend four years of your life. The visit and/or interview may help you in your selection of a college or to verify your choice of a school. Interviews can follow several formats. It can be designed to share information or to evaluate you as a candidate…
The nature of email is informal compared to standard business mail but it is important not to be too informal. The following are a few thoughts and suggestions regarding corresponding with colleges via email: DO Remember that your email messages may be added to your admissions file. Choose an appropriate email address. You may want to rethink addresses like partygirl@hotmail.com or hatetostudy@yahoo.com. Give your full name, address, phone number, and high school in each message.…
These are factors to consider when beginning your college list. Some will be of higher priority to you than others. What is important is figuring out what you care the most about, and then using that to narrow down your options. These are also great questions to think about on campus visits. Admission Requirements What high school courses are required? Are entrance tests required? SAT or ACT? What scores are acceptable? Is a certain grade…
When deciding where to go to college, and when you apply determines what category you’ll be placed in. Regular Decision Applications are accepted by the college until the stated application deadline. All applications are reviewed and decisions are mailed to everyone at the same time, usually in late March or early April, but no later than April 15. Early Decision Some students are so sure of their first choice college early in their senior year…
The College Application Process is not as difficult as it might seem. These suggestions can help guide you. Collect information about colleges You can gather information from a lot of sources to begin your search. College catalogs, information bulletins or videos College representatives Parents, students and alumni School counselors and teachers College websites and Internet searches Directories and computerized information systems Professionals in the field College planning section of your ACT score report Your high…
Summer break is a perfect opportunity for students to gain experience through paid or volunteer jobs, internships and other summer activities — pursuits that can also demonstrate a student’s sense of responsibility to college admission officers. 1. Follow a passion Ask yourself, “If you could do anything this summer, what would it be?” For example, a student who enjoys the outdoors and hiking could look into working at a summer camp or national park. 2.…
There’s a lot to consider when taking pre-college exams. Reference this material for your exam questions. Advanced Placement Exams You should consider taking Advanced Placement Exams or CLEP tests in your Junior and Senior years. This allows you to test out of some college courses that can save you time and money. The exams are administered each year in the Spring with some preparation required prior to the exam. Check with your school for…
11th Grade: College Planning Timeline This is a key year in the college planning process because you’ll be taking standardized tests, narrowing down your college list, and learning more about financial aid. In addition, you’ll need to stay involved in your high school courses and activities. ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fall Stay on track with your classes and grades. Meet with your counselor to see what you still need to take. Check on your class rank and your…
I’ve been out of high school for a few years now, and even now I’m watching my younger friends prepare for taking the PSAT and the SAT. I’m having flashbacks to participating in after-school clubs and passing by my classmates huddled in corners in the library, reviewing vocabulary flashcards and scouring their prep textbooks for new material to study. Back in high school, I figured I was taking my school work just as seriously as…
