For high-school seniors, the most dreadful part of the year is approaching: college application due dates! Speaking from experience, I can guess that most students are scrambling for tips, looking at average GPAs and SAT scores, trying to estimate their chances of getting into their dream colleges. And of course, the most dreadful part would be the writing portion, where you have to summarize your being into a couple of pages and use about 1200 words to determine the potential course of your life. To help you through one of the most excruciating experiences in life, here are some tips that helped me with my college applications:
- Start Early
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You’ve probably heard this a thousand times but seriously start early. If you haven’t started drop whatever you are doing and get typing. The earlier you start, the more time you have for editing and perfecting your essays. This will also alleviate a lot of the last-minute stress that comes with turning in your application. If you are prepared ahead of time you’ll be able to turn in your application earlier and avoid the stressful website crash that will inevitably happen when everyone starts turning in their applications last minute. By preparing ahead of time you will save yourself a massive headache and allow yourself to present your best work.
- Tell Your Story
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I know the word count is limited and sometimes the questions don’t let you be all that creative but it is important to tell your story. Every individual is made of unique experiences and lessons that shape us into the person we are. These unique experiences can set you apart from other applicants and can show college’s your strength and creativity. Don’t be afraid to be honest and tell your story openly. Colleges are looking for more than numbers, they are looking at you as a person so be sure to include what it is that makes you, you.
- Explain Any Inconsistencies
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Most applications will give you an optional essay in which you can explain any inconsistencies such as a sudden drop in grades or a period of many absences. Your grades may have fallen because you were going through a hard time or didn’t have access to the right resources. Whatever the situation may be take time to express the circumstances rather than trying to ignore that portion of your academic career. This is your chance to show that the situation was a one-off and that external factors may have been the cause of the issue. Every journey has its ups and downs so don’t be afraid to share your troubling times.
- Work Hard for Letter of Recommendations
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It may seem easiest to ask the most approachable or fun teacher for a letter of recommendation but this might not work out in your favor. The letters of recommendation are a way for universities to get to know you from a credible source. They want to hear about your work ethic, skill set and how you are as an overall person. Get a teacher or staff member who knows you well and has interacted with you on a professional level multiple times. A stellar recommendation will definitely boost your application.
Take these tips with a grain of salt as there is no exact science on how colleges choose applicants and who the perfect student is. As this stressful time of your life nears remember that you are not defined by what schools you are accepted into. You are much more than an acceptance or rejection letter and should be sure to treat yourself kindly no matter the outcome at the end of this admissions process. Good luck; you’ve got this!