College Application Tips

Edited by Martha Kim Images by Kyle Racewicz

As seniors await their acceptance (or rejection) letters from various universities, many juniors and underclassmen may be wondering what they can do to be able to increase their chances of attending the school of their dreams. Here is a list of tips to help a curious student apply for universities.

1. Have a list of universities researched and ready before senior year

There are thousands of universities out there; all with different things to offer. Take the time out during the summer (or earlier) to see which universities are ideal. Everyone has different needs and preferences, so students can save themselves the overwhelming stress of choosing universities by researching different schools early. This will make it easier so that students don’t miss any of the requirements of the universities they want to attend (like IB classes or subject tests).

2. Start working on essays early

The biggest mistake seniors tend to do is wait until October or November to start on writing their essays. Essays take a long time (and no, it doesn’t work use the same essay for every university they apply to). The actual process of applying to universities already is hours long, don’t leave it all to the last minute. Libby Schmid, Class of 2017, offered her advice, saying, “Write your essay well, write what you want to say and be authentic. Don’t just write what you think the schools want to hear. They get that all the time.”

3. Give some thought to letters or recommendations

Giving teachers a lot of time before the university’s deadline to write letters of recommendation will ensure that they can actually do a good job, and are not trying to squeeze it into their schedule at 12 o’clock after they finish grading a hundred other essays. Remember, it’s a favor. Another tip for students is to not only ask teachers for recommendation letters from teachers whose classes they aced, but also from a teacher who saw the student struggle and improves in their class throughout the year.

4. Take interviews and optional essays

If a university offers interviews to their possible alumni, take the opportunity. Although it may be a little nerve wracking, it is mostly just a friendly conversation so the school can get to know you more personally. Interviews tend to not harm students chances if they go south, as they can only help. Although there may be a lot of things on a student’s mind during these stressful times, writing optional essays and short answers will always show universities that the applicant is willing to go the extra mile.

5. Relax

It may seem overwhelming with all the things stacking up when applying to college. But remember that this is where all the hard work a student has put in in high school can pay off. Keep a clear list of deadlines and allocate plenty of time to complete everything, and things will go smoothly. Don’t forget to take it easy and relax, all the effort a student puts in will be repaid.