CSI: College Search Initiative Preparing for the College Admission Process College 101

College Search Initiative 1. Finding the Right Fit 2.What’s Important to Get There 3.Tools 4. Be Calm

Finding The right fit ATTEND college-sponsored events EXPLORE college websites VISIT college campuses TALK to current students and alumni USE the resources provided by your school DEVISE your list of “match” schools

Personal Survey Making the Right Choice College and Me 1. I am the kind of person who likes a) the big city b) small town c) suburb d) to travel and be almost anywhere 2. It is important for me to be a) close to home b) across the country c) within a reasonable driving distant of home d) it really doesn’t matter 3. I am most comfortable with a) people who are just like me b) people who are from a culturally diverse background c) a co-ed environment d) a single sex environment 4. I find I do my best work when I am a) in a large group b) in a small group c) by myself d) in almost any kind of people situation 5. I like to be in a place that offers a) a lot of choices b) a main focus such as math or science c) active learning like the performing arts /sports d) strong academics and research opportunities 6. When I think of myself three years after graduating from high school, I see myself a) already out in the work force b) in college preparing to finalizing my career choice c) finishing a short term education plan and thinking about my next move

What’s Important to Get There? Build Relationships *Get to know your Guidance Counselor Help you select your high school courses Help you make a plan starting early *Find a Mentor Teacher or coach

What’s Important to Get There ? Academic Program *Maintain a strong academic record Keep up your grades Do not be afraid to take advanced courses (Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, Honors) Be a good citizen

What’s Important to Get There ? The Tests You will have to take tests (SAT, ACT, or Placement Tests) Talk with your college to see what they are expecting Tests do not always determine admission decision

What’s Important to Get There… Supplemental Information This is where you get to tell the admissions representative who you really are ! Activities, services, work Essays and/or Personal Statements

Collect evidence Create a Timeline The Tools Document your college search Document yourself Create a Timeline When is the college application due? When is the financial aid application due?

Get in touch with your inner Organization Nerd College App Deadline FinAid Type of App Essays? Recs? Testing? Other? UVA EA: 11/1; RD 1/1 3/1 Common App Common+2 short answer 1 couns, 1 teacher SAT or ACTw/WR; 2 SAT 2's rec'ed art supp?

Application Application – Early, Regular and Rolling Competitive application Paints a picture of you – your academic ability and your personal interests Does our school fit you? Do not be afraid Non-competitive application Collects demographic and personal information You are automatically accepted There may be a separate, competitive, application for popular programs

College Search Initiative Be a good investigator! Find a college that is a FIT for YOU !

Questions? Valerie H. Gregory Associate Dean Director of Outreach deangregory@virginia.edu 434-982-3200