College application season is scary, but exhilarating at the same time. It's confusing, but also liberating, elongated but gone in the blink of an eye.
Looking back at my applications, I want to make a thousand edits. I would change my essay topics, alter my activities/volunteer section on the Common Application, even modify the list of colleges I applied to.
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I'm not an expert, but I did apply to 15 colleges and learned a few things along the road. Class of 2017, here are 17 things I wish I would have known when I was applying for college.
1. Now's not the time to be stubborn.
You can be stubborn a different time. But at this point, it's important to be flexible. If your parents want you to look at a college that you aren't too fond of, this is a good time to at least check out their website. Or, if your college counselor thinks you need a few more safety schools, listen to their advice and re-evaluate your college list.
2. Now IS the time to talk finances with your family.
It's incredibly important that you are aware of the financial commitment college is. Knowing which colleges are financially possible-and which are financially impossible-could make or break your college list. Yes, it's a difficult discussion to have, but make sure to have this conversation early on.
3. You don't have to apply to a million schools.
Don't be me and apply to a school only because it doesn't have an application fee or extra essay. Don't be me and apply to 15 colleges "just in case." Just do me a favor and avoid those. That's all.
4. Overnights are incredibly influential-and fun!
My overnight at my current college is the reason I picked my school. However, the reason I didn't pick another school was because of my experience at that college's overnight. At an overnight, you get to interact with the people on campus and be a student at that school for a few hours. Plus, it's super fun!
5. Your college counselor will become your new best friend.
College counselors and college geniuses. Listen to their suggestions, even if you aren't thrilled about one of their suggestions. Also, make sure to keep them updated on your college applications-they'll be able to tell you if you have too many reach or likely schools on your list, which will only help you in the long run.
6. Get to know the admissions counselors at the colleges you're serious about.
Ask questions and get in contact! And if you are deferred from a school, make sure to contact the admissions counselor at that college and first, thank them for deferring you (I know, sounds weird, but it lets them know you're still interested) and ask if there's anything you can do to improve your chances at an acceptance letter.
7. Define your limits.
It's impossible to be involved in everything at school plus apply to college. As a senior, it's important to figure out your priorities and go from there. Maybe that means dropping a club, or starting your applications early. Remember that sleep is also important!
8. There's no need to broadcast your college list.
Your entire grade, all your Facebook friends, and the cashier at the grocery store all don't need to be able to recite your college list. It's your college list, not a public article that a thousand people should know.
9. Listen to your parents.
That doesn't mean you have to apply to their alma maters. However, they only want the best for you and are there for you. And who knows? Maybe you'll end up loving their alma mater!
10. Take advice from older siblings/friends.
They've been through it already! They probably picked up lots of tips and tricks throughout their application process that could help you. Even better, see if you can spend the night with them to get a taste of college.
11. Don't make college the only thought in your mind.
It's your senior year...have some fun! Establish deep connections with your friends, and put yourself out there. Remember: you still have a year of high school left. Cherish it!
12. Look at everything the college has to offer.
It's easy to focus on the surface layers of the college: the campus, the food, the dorms, the academics. But, what else will you want to be involved in? Will you want to study abroad? Make sure to research all aspects of the colleges before making your big decision.
13. Your friends and family are your biggest supporters.
They'll be there will you to celebrate when you are accepted into your top school, but they'll also be there to be a shoulder to cry on if you don't get into your reach school. Most of all, they're your own personal cheerleading squad.
14. Double-check your list over and over again.
There are absolutely some colleges that I applied to that I know look back on and say, "Why did I apply there again...?" Before you spend time and money on an application, make sure you could see yourself there and that you're serious about the school.
15. Keep an open mind.
I told myself that I was going to go to a big college in a large city far from home. Instead, I go to a small college in a quaint little town only about an hour from my house. Let your mind be changed; you could be surprised at which colleges could be a great fit for you!
16. Don't let a few denials tear you down.
If you put your best foot forward and tried your best, then it's their loss! The college application process has its flaws...as does the college admittance process. It's impossible to know what happens in that decision room. However, remember that there are dozens of colleges out there that would love to have you in their class!
17. Most of all, stop worrying!
Your senior year should still be exciting! Yes, college is coming soon and applications are important, but if you listen to your friends and family, everything will fall into place.
Class of 2017, I have one more message for you:
