Seniors, we’re now at the most dreaded, yet most exciting time of our careers: applying to colleges! As all of us get ready to start a new life, let’s all agree that we’re a bit lost on what to do when, and we’re always panicking on whether we’re missing out on something, right?
As the time comes around to submit those applications, I want to make a short list of the things you should have been aware of, and whether or not you’re ready to hear back from your dream colleges. Check out below for some tips about college applications and reflect back on whether you’ve done these things or not.
Writing essays
The number one way to make the right impression on your dream colleges is to write an essay that leaves a mark. When writing your essays, make sure to reflect back on the prompt yet still show yourself; add your touch to it! Several colleges don’t even look at the “perfection” in your pieces, but the passion that you write it with. One of the most important factors in writing is having ideas that impress the college admission committee instead of just finishing the essay as a mere tick on the list of things you have to do.
The best tip? Start early. As several teachers told me last year, starting early, (even during the summer), is the best way to get all of these basic essays common between certain colleges such as “What captivates you?” or “Share your personal story.” If you haven’t started early, start now! The best you can do is complete an essay over the course of a few days and even ask a teacher to look over it and provide their feedback to improve it!
Letters of Recommendation
Further continuing on my point of communicating with teachers, the next big thing to consider is choosing your teachers for letters of recommendations (LoR’s). Most colleges you apply to will require you to provide them with LoR’s from 1-3 teachers, and you need to make sure you pick a teacher whom you can trust. In order to get the best letters from your favorite teachers or those who see the best in you, it is best to give them a notice of at least 3 weeks or more before the deadline, because all of your peers will be asking them at the same time.
Volunteering and Community Service
Another way to impress colleges is dedicating your time to support others and do something for your community. Make a list of everything you’ve done for your peers from freshman year and remind yourself to continue to do something at least every month in your senior year as well! A good number of hours range from 50-100 hours. It sure does sound like a lot, but if you had started early, these hours could be completed without a hassle.
These were my key points on what you should focus on when applying to your colleges, but I’m sure there are several more than those I’ve told you about today. Double check with your teachers and peers as well to ensure that your college applications are just the way you want them!
Good luck with your applications, and see you next quarter!
