While the Class of 2014 is finishing their college application process, sophomores and juniors are just beginning this daunting task. The process of researching majors, visiting prospective campuses, composing essays, seeking out scholarships, studying for the SAT, and filing financial aid forms can be overwhelming for both parents and students.
College Counselor Sarah Jimenez agrees, the college application process is a lengthy one, but with the right tools, the process is do-able for any student. Your new best friend should be your high school guidance counselor.
High school guidance counselors have a wealth of resources at their fingertips, from essay writing tips to career planning guides. Counselors also know exactly what steps students need to take from the beginning to the end of the application process. To navigate the process, Tom Welch, Director of College Counseling at Divine Savior Academy, shares his 10 Steps to College.
- Consider your interests, strengths, priorities, and goals. Your college choice should support this list.
- Prepare yourself academically. Most colleges require four years of English, and three years of math, science and social studies. Round out the requirements with fine arts, foreign language and technology classes.
- Create your ideal university. Ask yourself what you want from your college and make a list.
- Gather information. Search the Web, talk to family and friends, and review college guidebooks.
- Attend college fairs. Local, regional and national college fairs allow you to gather more information and meet with college representatives. (The Fort Lauderdale National College Fair is coming up on October 23rd at the Broward County Convention Center).
- Meet with college reps at your own high school regularly and ask lots of questions.
- Develop a college Top 10 list. Compose a list of ten schools that interest you, support your goals, and offer your desired major.
- Visit your top schools. The college visit is one of the most important steps in the process. Attend an open house event or overnight stay. Include a campus tour, faculty visit, admission and financial aid meeting during your visit.
- Narrow your list and apply. Choose three or more schools and complete the application process for each. Carefully note each school’s deadlines. You can begin the application process as early as spring of your junior year. Don’t delay the process, and consider applying online.
- Make a final decision. Pay your deposits, submit housing requests and register for classes. Once you arrive on campus, participate in welcome events and get involved as soon as possible.
Welch stressed that these 10 steps are just an outline but highlight the most important steps of the college application process. His best advice. Begin early.
For more information, please contact Divine Savior Academy’s College Guidance Department at 305-597-4545.
Divine Savior Academy – Doral provides education from PreK-3 through 12th grade to the Doral, Fl community and surrounding Miami communities. Schedule a tour to learn more!
