Many parents of teens know how daunting the college admissions process can be. In an effort to help parents and their students down the challenging road of getting into college, we talked to local admissions counselors and college experts for the inside scoop.
Start preparing now
The route toward college admissions isn’t hard and fast, but the general consensus is that if students are planning to attend college, they should begin their academic planning as they enter high school.
“I think it’s best for students to be mindful beginning in ninth grade by taking classes that will set them up for success,” said Greg Kaplan, college admissions strategist and author of “Earning Admission: Real Strategies for Getting Into Highly Selective Colleges.” “Look at taking honors and AP classes in areas of strength. But keep it balanced so there isn’t burnout. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
Jessica Wagoner, director of admissions at Cal State Fullerton said students should start exploring college choices their sophomore year and narrow the list of schools they will apply to during their junior year.
“Students should apply to schools they want, as well as others they may not have considered as possible backups,” Wagoner said. “Life happens, and options are always a good thing.”
This is also a good time to begin looking at financial aid planning. Circumstances and opportunities in this area vary widely for families, but some recommended website resources on the topic include collegeboard.org, californiacolleges.edu and scholarships.com.
Be a leader
When it comes to extracurricular activities, including sports, the arts, cultural programs or community service, students can set themselves apart through leadership.
“Colleges are looking for their next leaders, so students need to dedicate themselves to what they enjoy doing and be a leader in those areas,” Kaplan said.
“We want to see not only what the applicants are doing to invest in their academic preparation, but what their potential is to contribute to the university,” said David Naimie, associate director of student and school relations at UC Irvine.
“What do they care about? Are they doing those things with some depth of involvement, and are they being recognized and honored for their efforts?”
Brag about yourself
Advances in technology mean more applications than ever are being submitted at the click of a button. How do students set themselves apart in such a large applicant pool?
“Don’t miss deadlines,” Naimie said. “Research the application process and give it the time and attention it deserves. Don’t be shy about listing accomplishments. We’re looking for strong contributors to our campus.”
In the applicant’s personal statement, or essay, students should give a unique perspective on something they find inspirational.
“Don’t use the essay to rehash what is already in the application,” Kaplan said. “This is an opportunity for students to show how they think about the world, giving an extraordinary perspective on something otherwise viewed as ordinary.”
Parental involvement is helpful, but parents should let their student take the lead.
“It’s always refreshing to hear from the students themselves,” Wagoner said. “Let them tackle it on their own. They’re becoming adults.”
While each step along the college admissions path is important, students would benefit by taking some time to look inward and research themselves as a way of finding that ideal long-term solution.
“In college, you often learn as much about yourself as the subject you’re studying,” Naimie said. “Students should work through with a family member or friend what they truly value – it could be prestige, price or program – so that their school choice will not only be a best fit now, but will remain a best fit.”
