Counselor’s Corner
by CHARLOTTE WINKELMANN
Applying to college may seem overwhelming to you and your child but, with these tips, you can provide reassurance, even if you’ve never applied to college yourself.
Getting Organized
The most challenging aspect of the college application process might be organizational. Suggest your child dedicate a folder (paper or electronic) or online spreadsheet to each college. At the front of each should be a checklist of required materials and the date each is due so you can both see at a glance what’s been taken care of and what still needs to be done.
Gathering Information
Most applications request a list of activities, honors or awards received. Some may ask for additional information such as a job, while others may ask for a statement from parents. It helps to brainstorm with your child before starting to compile this list. Ask which activities were most significant and why. This prepares your child to highlight the most important items that make your child stand out as an individual.
Providing Appropriate Information
Honest and relevant information is key. Students should focus on presenting a true representation of themselves. Admission officers can tell if your child is exaggerating. They prefer to see a sincere picture of individual talents and interests, rather than a list of every single activity your child occasionally participated in. Your child might want to add supplemental information to explain special circumstances or detail unique abilities.
Sending Recommendations
Teachers, employers or school counselors are the best choices for recommendation letters. Your child should provide each writer with recommendation forms and a stamped, addressed envelope for each college.
Using the Same Material for Multiple Colleges
Many applications have similar requirements and it is perfectly permissible to use the same materials for different colleges. The Apply Texas application (www.collegeforalltexans.com) or the Common Application (www.commonap.org) is used by public and private colleges in and outside of Texas.
Applying Early
Apply long before the deadline. There are some colleges that offer early decision or early action programs. Talk to your child’s school counselor or College and Career Counselor for more information.
Sending It In
If your child is applying online, make sure an electronic confirmation is received from the college. If your child is applying in print, send the packets by certified mail, so you get confirmation and a record that they were delivered on time.
You and your child should celebrate this accomplishment – it’s one more step on the road to independence and adulthood. An official transcript should also be ordered from the school counseling office. Hays CISD Counselors are always eager to help you and your child through this process!
