The road to college just got easier

More stories from Ally Dahncke

Seth Corter

A representative from University of San Diego came into the College & Career Center to help discuss college ideas with students.

Knowing what to do in order to apply to college can be confusing, so here are some tips to follow to make the road to college a little easier.

Visiting the college is a great way to start. One way to look at a college campus is to go to a college fair in the area and get a feel for what the campus is like. Julie Shimabukuro, director of undergraduate admissions at Washington University, stated, “We take note of your visit and it’s the only way that you’ll know if a school is right for you.” Scheduling a visit also allows for someone to get a feel for if they will be comfortable at the college.

Be aware of how long it takes to apply, so try to apply early. Make a plan and timeline for at least three colleges to apply to, one dream school, one that is more realistic, and a safety net or one that will definitely accept you. Also make a list of items that will be needed, such as teacher recommendations and ask the teachers to write is long before the due date so they can deliver it before then.

Keep C’s off of transcripts. Debra Shaver, director of admission at Smith College in Northampton, MA, stated “Grades of Cs ‘pop’ on a transcript to selective colleges since we don’t see them often. That doesn’t mean that one C on a transcript will mean a student won’t get into college. What is does mean is that students shouldn’t over-challenge themselves.”

Be honest. If there are any test scores that are not the best or any gaps in experience, then be honest and use the personal statement to explain how those mistakes helped or how those imperfections are unique. “Honesty is better than artificial perfection,” stated ExploreHealthCareers.org.

For more information visit:

https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/loans/student-loans/applying-college-7-tips-firstgeneration-students/

https://www.thedailybeast.com/top-10-college-admissions-tips

https://explorehealthcareers.org/your-education/applying-to-college/