College Application 101 Tuesday, June 4, 2013 An introductory “course” to assist parents in navigating the latest in the college application process PLEASE SILENCE CELL PHONES

Session “Syllabus” Parent Involvement Timeline The College Visit The College Application FAQ’s

Parent Involvement in the Application Process Support but don’t do application for them. Colleges can spot this! Act as their advocate Help to organize and set goals for deadlines Payment!

TIMELINE What to do in June? Senior year schedule must be finalized no later than 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13 th Finish junior year strong! ACT June 8 th. Register online for the ACT if appropriate. September 21 st and October 26 th. Meaningful summer activity (work, volunteer, internships, camps, etc.) Gather information Schedule college visits

TIMELINE What to do in July? Utilize websites for gathering information – uwhelp.wisconsin.edu – quickstart.collegeboard.org – collegeweeklive.com – mnscu.edu – collegeview.com – eCampusTours.com – MyCollegeOptions.com – princetonreview.com – collegeboard.com – careercruising.com Begin to work on essay – set completion goal – – – – college-essay college-essay-2-35 College visits

College Visits! Timing – summer is different on campus Ask questions! Analyze the individual fit Rank priorities “People watch”…check out the cafeteria and bookstore Take pictures, and write down notes before you forget Take a tour, and explore on your own Attend a class

TIMELINE What to do in August? Finalize list of schools to apply to – have a good mix of “reach schools”, good fits and “slam dunks”. Begin applications – please remember that teachers and counselors do not have summer hours. Complete an activities summary/resume. Summer prior to high school until present Determine need for letters of recommendation Begin exploring scholarships

Seniors….take FLIGHT!!! FLIGHT is BRAND NEW for the Class of 2014 August 19 th and 20 th, 12:30 to 2:30 Get insider tips on senior year and the college admissions process: – Essay help – How to set up your Parchment account – Letters of Recommendation and the Senior Profile – Avoid “Senioritis” – How to really succeed in college, and not just “get in” – Guest speakers Watch your mail/ for sign-up information!

APPLICATION CHECKLIST -Application: online -Application Fee: credit card or online is sometimes free -Parchment $2.55 per transcript * -Transcript Release Form: (Only if paper copy is needed, available on school website or in the Counseling Office) -Senior Profile completed (available on the AHS website) -Letters of recommendation (if required): follow application directions -Essay/Personal Statement (if required) -Resume or Activities Summary (Optional) -ACT/SAT scores sent from the testing service * Refer to detailed handout PLAN AHEAD - ALLOW 5 SCHOOL DAYS!

FAQ #1 Why didn’t you send my transcript? Parchment Did you fill out a request/fee? Allow enough time…AHS, mail, university sort, etc. Call the university or check your account Consider the volume at the college and mail/electronic application speed Common Application

FAQ #2 Do students need recommendation letters? UW-Wisconsin schools do not require recommendations – except UW-Madison Recommendations may be helpful for the student on the “bubble” Letters of recommendations submitted directly to the university – may want to use DOB Provide stamped envelope(s) to the writer Recommendations are more commonly needed for scholarships As a courtesy to the writer, allow at least two weeks and provide a Senior Profile

FAQ #3 How does my son/daughter have their ACT/SAT scores sent? Official scores are sent from the testing agency Free at time of registration May request online or by phone(there is a cost for this service) act.org or collegeboard.com (SAT and AP)

FAQ #4 What are important tips for the senior year? September 15: College application “period” begins Watch social media image (Facebook, etc.) Set up a “professional” for all college information, and check it 3-4 times per week November: Goal to have all college applications completed – be sure to include a “Back-Up School” READ ALL CORRESPONDENCE: Check for deposit information, housing forms, registration, May 1 = final decision date. Visit schools a final time after admitted Continue to work hard in senior year courses – “RESCIND” Scholarships –Busy time is January – April Scholarships sent by the student so plan ahead and organize! Final transcript request – June with Parchment

North Campus Counseling Office Mrs. Morrison Registrar/Secretary Ext Brianne Mehlos Ext Kathie Mitich Ext Angie Rodenkirch Ext, 4218 Thank you for coming!