The college application process is a daunting task for all students. Don’t let it intimidate or overwhelm you; make it a practice in “selling yourself.” Being able to promote yourself and impress others is a valuable tool for life, whether it be for a college application, job interview, or just meeting someone on the street.
Completing a college application is a process. There are many pieces that make up the puzzle and each one deserves time, attention, and effort. Plan in advance and give yourself enough time to make sure your application shines.
The Application. Fill it out completely and thoroughly. Leave nothing blank! If the question does not apply to you, put “N/A” or “None.” If you don’t know the answer to a question, investigate and ask someone who might know. If there are questions that invite you to give extra information (such as “We invite more comments to get to know you better”), then answer them.
Résumé or Activity Section. Here’s your opportunity to show colleges what an engaged and motivated student you were in high school and will continue to be in college. Include everything—extracurricular activities, sports teams, leadership roles, club participation, community service, jobs or internships.
Recommendation Letters. Make sure to at least provide the recommendations that the college requests. Most schools ask for a letter from your guidance counselor and one from a teacher. Also seek out a recommendation from other people who know you well—a mentor, a boss, or even a peer.
The College Essay. Be open and honest, take risks, be unique with your writing style, and produce an essay that reveals your strengths. The College Essay is perhaps the best tool for “selling yourself.” It is an opportunity to tell a story that reveals your true character or explains what sets you apart from the rest.
Review. Colleges and universities are expecting an application free of errors. Spell check and proofread each component. Have a parent, counselor, or teacher review the application. It is ok to have a second (or third) pair of eyes to look over the application.
