Summer is here, and while it’s a time for relaxation and fun, it’s also the perfect opportunity to get a head start on your college application process. Beginning now, you can ease into the fall with less stress and more confidence. So, let’s dive into this exciting journey together!
July and August Checklist – Let’s Get Started!
College Visits
- Attend information sessions and tours to find the best college for you.
- Consider cost, majors, location, student population, extracurriculars, social environment, support services, employment opportunities, scholarship opportunities, and academic programs.
- Take notes and photos during visits to help you remember important details later.
- Schedule interviews with admissions counselors if available.
SAT/ACT Registration & Preparation
- Visit the College Board and ACT websites to register and prepare online.
- Chariot Learning of Brighton, NY, is an excellent resource. Contact Mike Bergin for assistance.
- Create a study schedule and stick to it.
- Take practice tests to identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
Common Application Essay
- Start working on your Common Application essay today. The 2024-2025 essay prompts are available on the Common Application website.
- Brainstorm several topics before settling on one.
- Draft an outline to organize your thoughts.
- Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or friends and revise accordingly.
Why is it Important?
The Common Application essay is your opportunity to showcase something unique about yourself beyond the basic information included in your application, such as your profile, courses, grades, test scores, and activities.
Tips for Writing Your Common Application Essay (or Any Essay!)
- Let your personality shine.
- Share anecdotes or personal stories that highlight your character.
- Share a story that is unique to you.
- Focus on experiences that have had a significant impact on your life.
- Avoid negative tones; the outcome should be positive.
- Even if discussing challenges, emphasize your resilience and growth.
- Demonstrate maturity, keeping in mind that you are writing to an adult.
- Use a respectful and professional tone.
- Show how you have transitioned or grown from an experience.
- Highlight lessons learned and how they’ve shaped you.
- Stay within the word limit – no more, no less.
- Be concise and clear; every word should add value.
Additional Tips:
- Create a timeline for your application process.
- Set deadlines to ensure you stay on track.
- Organize your documents.
- Keep a folder with all your application materials, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores.
- Research scholarship opportunities.
- Look for scholarships that match your interests and qualifications, and start the application process early.
- Practice self-care.
- Take breaks and manage stress through activities you enjoy to maintain a healthy balance during this busy time.
Starting your college application process in the summer is a smart move that will pay off in the fall. By taking these steps now, you can approach your senior year with confidence and a clear plan. Remember, this journey is about finding the right fit for you. Happy summer, and happy planning!
Sentinel Article, July 18, 2024