Organizing your college application process Senior Seminar October 2012
Are you losing your mind?
Feeling overwhelmed?
Think the job is impossible?
Why? It doesn’t have to be that way if you will only take time NOW to get organized?”
Start with the chart
Do your research Freshman profile Early or regular decision? Binding or only early action? Application requirements Deadlines
What to put in your chart Name of College Tuition /housing Costs Distance from home Freshman profile Special programs Sign in info Application deadlines Scholarship deadlines Application cost Application type (Common?) Essay topics # of recs and who Interview?
Hang your chart
Next Step: Use the chart to Plan How many birds can you kill with one stone?
Plan of Attack THE ESSAY: Compare the essay topics. Figure out how to write as few essays as possible. Write a couple of good ones and tweak them for all! Write them. Have your parents, friends and teachers read them for you. Remember: quirky not creepy!
Plan of Attack Application Forms How many are common app? If they are common app, is there an addendum for that school? Does the scholarship or honors college have a separate app?
Plan of Attack Ask people to recommend you Contact them NOW! Inform them how many recs, in what form, and when you need it Provide them with what they need Forms Stamped, addressed envelope Resume Electronic invitation
Work with Ms. Terry Fill out your blue sheet Update your yellow card Make your requests Meet with her Send electronic requests Pay! Follow up to make sure she knows what you need – is good
Just do it! Set yourself deadlines on your calendar Get help from parents and teachers Schedule your time Follow up with those you have asked things from
Be happy