Attention Juniors:
Our school is participating in the National College Fair at Pace University on April 18, 2012 from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm
Please see Mrs. Gordineer in the CRC room for more information. Permission slips must be returned by April 9, 2012.
“As a junior looking to stay on top of my college admissions timeline, what are the most important things for me to be doing before senior year starts?” – Andrew S., Renton, WA
A: Congratulations on realizing the importance of an early start!
Begin by looking at several applications and fill in gaps you see in your own life. Study hard. Pursue activities that develop your interests and skills. Decide which teachers will write strong recommendations, and make your requests early. Become familiar with application essay topics and practice writing about your life. Prepare for the SAT or ACT. Plan spring campus visits. Create a separate e-mail account for college communications. Note deadlines, either official or self-imposed, on your calendar and keep it handy. Designate a ‘college corner’ stocked with a file box, folders and other things that keep you organized.
– Joan Bress – Director & Certified Educational Planner, College Resource Associates
A: Narrow your academic, social and financial focus before you apply
Ask yourself two important questions: 1) why do you want to go to college and 2) what type of college will best prepare you? Be honest with yourself and you will apply to schools that are the right ones for you. Once you answer the questions, get applications and start to compile the necessary documents. Schedule campus visits and meet with admissions, financial aid officers and current students. Also, request recommendation letters. Lastly, spend your summer wisely. Internships, volunteering and attending academic summer programs are all good ways to stay sharp while impressing college and scholarship committees. Good luck!
– Kimberly Arias – Director of Programs, Project GRAD
A: Engage in two substantive activities this summer to enhance your college search
High school counselors across the country are meeting with juniors this spring and encouraging them to read guide books, visit college campuses and develop a list of “good fit” colleges. To look beyond the “bumper sticker” schools and find a college that really fits, take time to explore who you are and who you hope to become. Get out of your routine and engage in two substantive activities this summer. These experiences will bring more depth to your college search and applications. Get a job, read a Russian novel a week, learn how to repair a car, or take a class at a nearby college. What excites you?
– Peggy Hock – Educational Consultant, UC Berkeley
A: Get to know the Admission Office at your schools
Did you know that some college admission offices actually keep track of the number of times you are in contact with the school? It is called “expressed interest” and it can be a factor in an admission decision. So, attend college fairs and local college programs and meet the representatives. If your high school has representatives visiting, always stop in to see the college representative and fill out an inquiry card. If you have questions, call the admissions office and of course, visit. Once you apply, keep the dialogue going to make sure that your application is complete.
– Patricia Tamborello – College Counselor, Plymouth Whitemarsh High School
A: A campus without students is like a rock concert without music
First, decide what you want from college, academically and socially, then check graduation rates of schools that meet your criteria. You want to graduate in four years because an extra year costs time and money. Then visit your target colleges while classes are in session. Seeing a campus during the summer is like going to a rock concert while they are setting up the chairs. Ask current students what they do on weekends, how many hours they study, how many papers they write and how big classes are. Large classes mean little discussion; small classes mean no place to hide.
– Larry Dannenberg – Founder, College Solutions
Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions from University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.
See answers from the Dean of Admissions from University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork