The College Search and Application Process

How to begin your college search Is there one college out there that is the*perfect* fit for you?

Selecting the “Right” institution Is it a good match for you? Size Location Environment Facilities Admission Requirements Cost Academics Class Size Activities Sports

Starting your college search Use all of your resources Guidance counselors Teachers Coaches Parents Research & visit different colleges Start at school website Visit (campus tour, information session, interview) Attend an open house and/or a class Explore the town Ask questions Admission and financial aid staff Counselors, teachers, coaches Create separate email account to track questions

Types of colleges and universities Trade Schools/Technical College Community Colleges (2 Year) Liberal Arts College Public 4-Year Universities Private 4-Year Universities Specialized 4 Year College (Engineering School, Nursing Colleges)

What do all colleges look for? Grades Citizen Strong

Checklist for college bound students Strong grades A record of achievement Good writing skills Personal motivation Challenging coursework Test scores that meet requirement Model citizen Positive recommendations

In the classroom Challenge yourself with advanced coursework Colleges look for a strong record of academic performance A’s are better than B’s, B’s are better than C’s. D’s and F’s are to be avoided! Challenge yourself with advanced coursework Don’t be afraid to take Honors and AP courses Don’t be afraid of getting a B in a more challenging course

Outside the classroom Be Involved Make A Difference In Your Community Join clubs, sports, & activities Be a leader Be well-rounded…participate Make A Difference In Your Community Be the change you want to see in the world Pursue issues/causes/groups you care about Work, Church & Family are Extracurricular Activities Colleges look for dedication & commitment Not every student can stay after school… that’s OK Do what is most important to you

Cheating Plagiarism Drugs & Alcohol Integrity & judgment count Avoid Disciplinary Infractions! Cheating Plagiarism Drugs & Alcohol

The application Complete an application at www.commonap.org Application components Student information Personal essay School report Test scores/STO Recommendations Supplement Remember application fees

How colleges evaluate you Transcript Grades GPA Class rank Trends Test scores or graded writing samples Essay Activities Interview Recommendations Overall presentation of application

Communicating with a college Be Professional Use Mr. & Ms. Be courteous and respectful No TXT Language in emails Use proper English, practice good grammar Shake hands, introduce yourself, make eye contact Dress appropriately Be Confident Colleges want your business Ask questions that are important to you Don’t be afraid to talk about your strengths & talents

Application deadlines Early programs Early Decision Early Action Regular Decision Rolling Admission Priority Deadline

Types of decision letters Admitted…you’re in Wait list…no guarantees Denied…not accepted Deferred…on hold Spring option…spring start date

Finally One piece of advice…

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” -Oscar Wilde