When you’re headed into the admissions process, there are some key things you’re going to want to do and some key things you’re going to want to avoid. Like becoming a deadline zombie.
Not sure what those are? Keep reading, and find out!
- DO give yourself as much time as possible.
- More than anything else, planning and working ahead will make the application process more successful and less stressful.
- DON’T be a deadline zombie
- Deadline zombie (noun): a student who staggers around half awake because they started an application just four hours before the midnight deadline. Craves caffeine, not brains.
- DO ask questions.
- Admissions departments provide valuable info about the institution and its application process – don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need help.
- DON’T pester the admissions department.
- Avoid being one of those overly enthusiastic applicants who calls/emails admissions officers daily or sends gifts to their office. Protip: make sure your parents aren’t doing this either.
- DO research potential target colleges.
- There are countless options to help you learn about institutions, from school websites and admissions personnel to guidebooks and online resources.
- DON’T apply to every school in the book.
- With college applications, more is not automatically better – and no, the Common App is not an invitation to apply to every school that takes it, from Adelphi to Yale.
- DO give early thought to financial aid.
- Many students only start researching scholarships, grants, and loans after their college apps are done – starting earlier can give you a significant advantage in securing funds for college.
- DON’T assume you can’t afford a given school.
- Many of the most expensive schools out there also have the most financial aid to offer.
- DO stay organized.
- Whether a schedule book, online calendar program, or hundreds of sticky notes, find a way to give your memory some help when it comes to remembering important info while applying.
- DON’T take things too seriously.
- Yes, applying to college is challenging and important – but it’s not the end of the world. Throughout the process, be sure to find time for the things you’re passionate about in life, like friends, activities, and ice cream.
