One of the takeaways in this Huff Post piece is that if you are interested in a particular college, you should make an effort to meet that admissions representative assigned to your high school. And then find a way to follow up and make a second positive impression with a well-written thank-you note.
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The New York Times does a good job with its college admissions blog, The Choice. Each month, the blog publishes checklists for juniors and seniors, outlining what actions they should be taking toward getting into college. Rising seniors, this especi
This piece is a bit Michigan-centric, but it focuses on what I tell students repeatedly: the right essay can make a difference in your college application. So find a great story about yourself and sell it!
I recently coached a young lady who was working on her Stanford application. Stanford uses the Common App, but also requires applicants to answer some other questions designed to show the students' intellect and depth. Here, a college counselor discusses what admissions officials are seeking in terms of intellectual curiosity. (And he's telling the truth about Stanford's "intellectual vitality" question. She really had to address that!)
I've already suggested that rising seniors start working on their college essays this summer. But creating a list of potential colleges likely would come first. Here are some tips.
Want to see what topics are being suggested on the 2012-13 Common Application? Influential people or significant experiences in your life. Risks you have taken. Ethical dilemmas you have faced. For more details, see the Washington Post.
I like everything about this post from Forbes, which shares several myths about admission and debunks them. Connections, most likely, will not get you in. (Unless your parents put a building on the campus.) Neither will admission gimmicks, like sending cookies with your application.
Pam Yip, a columnist for The Dallas Morning News, suggests that parents should look at more than the school's sticker price in comparing financial aid packages. Besides tuition, room and board, the cost of attendance includes "books, supplies, transportation, personal expenses, dependent care and possibly student health insurance and the cost of a computer," Yip notes.
This blogger shares many of the same tips that I do when I talk to parents and students about college essays: Start early. Pick an appropriate topic. The essay should not mimic the student's resume. Get a good editor. All good ideas.
Here are some tips for understanding and maximizing your financial aid package. One consultant says April is the time to challenge your award, if you plan to ask for more money. May 1 is too late.
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AuthorLinda Leavell is The Write Coach, based in Plano, Texas. She reads a lot about college admissions and writing essays. And she shares the best stuff. Or you can follow her on Facebook. Archives
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