Seniors & College

After a few months, Writing Scoop has resumed its posting.  Much has happened during our time away, but much has remained the same!  We hope ALL are WELL & SAFE!

Here are some timely tips:

If you are a high school senior applying to college for Fall 2021 or a junior thinking in advance-

1. Prepare a college list. How many colleges?  1 is risky, but 25 may be excessive.  Try several safe colleges, some target schools and maybe a reach or 2. 

2. What is the most important feature or a college? Location. location, location!  Unless you are applying to a highly specialized major (architecture, engineering, business, fashion design), many colleges have similar courses.  Think of where you would like to be! Next consider cost, population, size, Rah-Rah and friends who will be applying to the same colleges.

3. Create a Common Application account.  Write your user name and password somewhere!

4. If applicable, link your Common App to your school so that recommendations and transcripts can be uploaded easily through your high school.

5. Take virtual tours of your colleges! Most every college has a virtual tour on its site!

6. IMPORTANT: make sure that ALL of your colleges are on the Common App.  If they are not, find out about individual applications through each college's website. Or by calling the college.

7. Make sure you have lined-up teacher, employer, community service recommenders.  Usually colleges require 2 teacher recommendations and a recommendation/profile from your guidance counselor.  Other letters may be sent, but colleges may or may not look at these: Nothing ventured/Nothing gained!

8. Create a list of activities.  Most colleges do not require a formal resume; however, the Common App has slots for 10 activities + 5 academic Honors.  It is helpful to have a list of your school clubs, outside activities (community sports leagues. art classes, piano or singing or other music lessons, private gym), community service, employment and awards handy.

9. Write your personal statement.  You can target any life experience YOU have had, but think of your essay as a way to connect with the reader.  Use a hook to start/draw them in and keep the reader reading!

10. Make sure whether or not your colleges require ADDITIONAL supplements! These are found within the college listings on the Common App. Or on college websites.

GOOD LUCK!!