9 answers
Lucas
Student
Sugar Land, Texas
1
Question
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What was your best strategy for college applications from your experience?
What was your best strategy for college applications from your experience?
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9 answers
Mark Eagle
CTO
34
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Stay true to yourself and embrace your uniqueness. But remember, the most valuable tip is to plan and prepare adequately. This way, you can acquire the necessary qualifications that will make your application shine. Keep going, you've got this!
Identify where you want to go to school
Research it.
Identify your uniqueness.
Mark recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3765
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Boost Your College Application Success: An All-Inclusive Guide
Embarking on the college application journey may seem intimidating, but fear not! With a well-designed strategy, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing a spot in your dream college. Drawing from my personal journey as a college applicant, I've formulated an all-inclusive guide that encompasses research, planning, and execution. Here's a breakdown of my top tactics for college applications:
1. Investigate and Shortlist Colleges
Kick-start your journey by investigating and shortlisting colleges that resonate with your academic, career, and personal aspirations. Consider elements like location, size, academic programs, cost, and campus life. Online tools like College Navigator, Niche, and Unigo can be your allies in gathering information about colleges.
References:
* National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.). College Navigator. Retrieved from <https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/>
* Niche. (n.d.). College Search. Retrieved from <https://www.niche.com/colleges/>
* Unigo. (n.d.). College Reviews. Retrieved from <https://www.unigo.com/>
2. Formulate a Balanced List
After identifying potential colleges, it's vital to formulate a balanced list comprising reach schools, target schools, and safety schools. Reach schools are slightly beyond your academic grasp, target schools match your qualifications, and safety schools are those likely to accept you.
3. Establish a Timeline
Establishing a timeline is key to staying organized and meeting all deadlines. Begin by noting important dates like application deadlines, test dates, and financial aid deadlines. Then, divide each application component into smaller tasks and set achievable deadlines for each.
4. Gear Up for Standardized Tests
Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT play a significant role in the college application process. Gear up for these tests by studying and taking practice tests. Consider enrolling in test preparation courses or engaging a tutor to boost your scores.
5. Draft an Engaging Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to shine by showcasing your personality, experiences, and goals. Start by brainstorming ideas and noting key points to include. Then, weave a narrative that is engaging, genuine, and tailored to each college.
6. Compile a Robust Activity List
Your activity list should spotlight your achievements, passions, and leadership experiences. Opt for activities that are meaningful to you and reflect your skills and interests. Don't forget to include specifics like dates, roles, and accomplishments.
7. Obtain Powerful Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or mentors can offer valuable insights into your character and abilities. Select recommenders who know you well and can vouch for your strengths and achievements. Give them ample notice and a copy of your resume or activity list.
8. Finalize and Submit Applications
Once all your application materials are ready, it's time to finalize and submit your applications. Thoroughly review each component for accuracy and completeness before submitting. Make sure you adhere to the instructions for each college meticulously.
9. Follow Up and Follow Through
Post submission, it's crucial to follow up and follow through. Regularly check your email and mail for updates from colleges. Respond swiftly to any requests for additional information or materials.
In summary, an all-inclusive strategy for college applications involves research, planning, and execution. By adhering to these steps, you can significantly boost your chances of admission to your dream school. Remember to stay organized, prepare thoroughly, and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.
References:
* National Association for College Admission Counseling. (n.d.). College Application Timeline.
* The College Board. (n.d.). SAT Test Dates and Deadlines. Retrieved from <https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/test-dates-deadlines>
* The Common Application. (n.d.). Personal Statement.
Embarking on the college application journey may seem intimidating, but fear not! With a well-designed strategy, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing a spot in your dream college. Drawing from my personal journey as a college applicant, I've formulated an all-inclusive guide that encompasses research, planning, and execution. Here's a breakdown of my top tactics for college applications:
1. Investigate and Shortlist Colleges
Kick-start your journey by investigating and shortlisting colleges that resonate with your academic, career, and personal aspirations. Consider elements like location, size, academic programs, cost, and campus life. Online tools like College Navigator, Niche, and Unigo can be your allies in gathering information about colleges.
References:
* National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.). College Navigator. Retrieved from <https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/>
* Niche. (n.d.). College Search. Retrieved from <https://www.niche.com/colleges/>
* Unigo. (n.d.). College Reviews. Retrieved from <https://www.unigo.com/>
2. Formulate a Balanced List
After identifying potential colleges, it's vital to formulate a balanced list comprising reach schools, target schools, and safety schools. Reach schools are slightly beyond your academic grasp, target schools match your qualifications, and safety schools are those likely to accept you.
3. Establish a Timeline
Establishing a timeline is key to staying organized and meeting all deadlines. Begin by noting important dates like application deadlines, test dates, and financial aid deadlines. Then, divide each application component into smaller tasks and set achievable deadlines for each.
4. Gear Up for Standardized Tests
Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT play a significant role in the college application process. Gear up for these tests by studying and taking practice tests. Consider enrolling in test preparation courses or engaging a tutor to boost your scores.
5. Draft an Engaging Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to shine by showcasing your personality, experiences, and goals. Start by brainstorming ideas and noting key points to include. Then, weave a narrative that is engaging, genuine, and tailored to each college.
6. Compile a Robust Activity List
Your activity list should spotlight your achievements, passions, and leadership experiences. Opt for activities that are meaningful to you and reflect your skills and interests. Don't forget to include specifics like dates, roles, and accomplishments.
7. Obtain Powerful Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or mentors can offer valuable insights into your character and abilities. Select recommenders who know you well and can vouch for your strengths and achievements. Give them ample notice and a copy of your resume or activity list.
8. Finalize and Submit Applications
Once all your application materials are ready, it's time to finalize and submit your applications. Thoroughly review each component for accuracy and completeness before submitting. Make sure you adhere to the instructions for each college meticulously.
9. Follow Up and Follow Through
Post submission, it's crucial to follow up and follow through. Regularly check your email and mail for updates from colleges. Respond swiftly to any requests for additional information or materials.
In summary, an all-inclusive strategy for college applications involves research, planning, and execution. By adhering to these steps, you can significantly boost your chances of admission to your dream school. Remember to stay organized, prepare thoroughly, and highlight your unique strengths and experiences.
References:
* National Association for College Admission Counseling. (n.d.). College Application Timeline.
* The College Board. (n.d.). SAT Test Dates and Deadlines. Retrieved from <https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/test-dates-deadlines>
* The Common Application. (n.d.). Personal Statement.
Pankaj Joshi
Procurement Manager
6
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Pankaj’s Answer
Invest significant time and energy into identifying your strengths. It's crucial to emphasize how these strengths can contribute to your success in the field you're pursuing. Incorporate actual examples from your life to underscore these strengths. Doing this will effectively demonstrate your proactive efforts. Additionally, remember to point out the positive effects of each project or initiative you've undertaken.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
364
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hello Lucas,
Embarking on your college application journey for prestigious institutions, it's paramount to hit the ground running. Starting early is a key strategy that will provide you with a generous amount of time to assemble all necessary materials, sidestepping the stress of a last-minute scramble. This process may involve collecting recommendations, crafting a compelling essay, completing your application, among other tasks.
Visiting the schools you're interested in is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with their environment. An effective way to demonstrate your enthusiasm is by participating in the campus tour, engaging with admissions officers, and asking insightful questions. If given enough advance notice, you can even arrange to attend lectures and meet with the professor whose research field captivates you.
Best of luck on your exciting journey!
Embarking on your college application journey for prestigious institutions, it's paramount to hit the ground running. Starting early is a key strategy that will provide you with a generous amount of time to assemble all necessary materials, sidestepping the stress of a last-minute scramble. This process may involve collecting recommendations, crafting a compelling essay, completing your application, among other tasks.
Visiting the schools you're interested in is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with their environment. An effective way to demonstrate your enthusiasm is by participating in the campus tour, engaging with admissions officers, and asking insightful questions. If given enough advance notice, you can even arrange to attend lectures and meet with the professor whose research field captivates you.
Best of luck on your exciting journey!
Katherine L
45
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi! First, it is crucial to carefully prepare and refine your list of potential colleges. Engage in detailed research, taking into account aspects such as the college's location, whether it's public or private, its size, the programs it offers, as well as networking possibilities and professional resources. If necessary, the availability of financial aid and scholarships could be a vital consideration.
Moreover, it's essential to research eeach specific college you're interested in applying to, as their application procedures and required materials may vary. Invest considerable effort into your college essay or personal statement. The key is to make your essay distinctly yours. Identify what sets you apart - your unique events, identities, experiences - and figure out the best way to express this information.
Don't forget to seek guidance from your counselor or advisor throughout this process! Wishing you the best of luck :)
Moreover, it's essential to research eeach specific college you're interested in applying to, as their application procedures and required materials may vary. Invest considerable effort into your college essay or personal statement. The key is to make your essay distinctly yours. Identify what sets you apart - your unique events, identities, experiences - and figure out the best way to express this information.
Don't forget to seek guidance from your counselor or advisor throughout this process! Wishing you the best of luck :)
Claire (Chazen) Sandler
Sales person
3
Answers
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Updated
Claire’s Answer
Hey Lucas! All great advice here, and there are so many colleges, universities and programs to choose from, it can definitely be overwhelming. Start by narrowing it down by asking yourself some questions.
1. Do I want a small school, medium school or a big one?
2. Is there a subject you really love at school? This can help to focus on particular programs
3. Is there a club or activity that you participate in that is important to you? If you want to continue doing that, e.g. student politics, ask schools about that if you go on a tour (highly recommend that as well, helps to envision yourself there)
4. What part of the country do you want to be in?
Best of luck and hope you get into the school of your dreams!
1. Do I want a small school, medium school or a big one?
2. Is there a subject you really love at school? This can help to focus on particular programs
3. Is there a club or activity that you participate in that is important to you? If you want to continue doing that, e.g. student politics, ask schools about that if you go on a tour (highly recommend that as well, helps to envision yourself there)
4. What part of the country do you want to be in?
Best of luck and hope you get into the school of your dreams!
Kelle Link, MBA
User Experience, Roadmapping, Strategy, Service Design, Business Design, Innovation
7
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Kelle’s Answer
Include a relevant life story that shows your unique individual background and experiences. Keep it real, not glossy.
Lianne Seyferth
Business Strategy
3
Answers
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Updated
Lianne’s Answer
Stay true to who you are in your essays, because that's how you can stand out from the crowd. Don't forget to be detailed in your application materials, particularly when expressing your enthusiasm for a specific school. As someone who used to be an admissions counselor, I've seen my fair share of essays and application materials that were obviously recycled from applications to other schools. Make your application unique by discussing specific classes, clubs, or campus experiences that attracted you to the school you're applying to, whenever you can.
Gabriel Low
Consulting
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
Be authentic and genuine. Colleges want to get to know the real you.