College Admission Resources

1. Start by deciding what you are looking for in a college. Consider factors such as location, size, programs and majors offered, cost, and extracurricular activities.

2. Use online tools and resources to research colleges that fit your criteria. Websites like College Navigator and College Board's BigFuture can help you search for colleges based on specific criteria.

3. Read about the colleges you are interested in on their websites and in other sources, such as college guides and rankings. Pay attention to factors such as the admissions process, financial aid options, and student life.

4. Talk to your high school counselor, teachers, and other trusted adults about the colleges you are interested in. They may have insights and experiences that can help you make informed decisions.

5. Visit the colleges you are interested in, if possible. Attend college fairs and information sessions, and take campus tours to get a feel for the school and its community.

6. Consider reaching out to current students and alumni of the colleges you are interested in. They can provide valuable perspectives and insights about the school.

7. Make a list of pros and cons for each college you are considering, and use it to narrow down your options and make a decision.

Remember to start your research early and to keep an open mind. The college you choose should be the right fit for you, and the research and exploration process can help you find the best match.

To apply to college on the Common Application, follow these steps:

1. Create an account on the Common Application website (commonapp.org).

2. Select the colleges you are applying to from the list of participating schools.

3. Begin filling out your Common Application, providing information such as your personal and academic background, extracurricular activities, and intended major.

4. Submit any required supplements, such as additional essays or forms, that are specific to the colleges you are applying to.

5. Pay the application fee (or request a fee waiver, if eligible) and submit your application.

6. Wait for colleges to review and respond to your application. You will typically receive a decision within a few weeks or months, depending on the college.

Remember to start your application early and to carefully review and proofread your application before submitting it. It's also important to check the deadlines and requirements for each college you are applying to, as they may vary. Good luck!

To get a Common App fee waiver, follow these steps:

1. Create an account on the Common App website (commonapp.org).

2. Begin filling out your Common App, and when prompted, select "fee waiver" as your payment option.

3. Submit your request for a fee waiver. This will typically require you to provide information about your financial situation, such as your family's income and any financial aid you have received.

4. Wait for your request to be reviewed and approved. The Common App will typically notify you within a few days if your fee waiver has been approved.

5. If your fee waiver is approved, you will not be charged the application fee when you submit your Common App.

Keep in mind that not all colleges and universities accept the Common App, and some may have their own processes for granting fee waivers. It's important to check with the individual schools you are applying to for more information.

To ask for a letter of recommendation when applying to college, follow these steps:

1. Identify a potential recommender who knows you well and can speak to your academic and personal qualities. This could be a teacher, counselor, coach, or employer, among others.

2. Ask the person if they are willing to write a letter of recommendation for you. Be sure to give them plenty of notice, as they may need time to write the letter.

3. Provide the person with any necessary information, such as the colleges you are applying to, the deadline for the letter, and any specific instructions or requirements.

4. Thank the person for considering your request and let them know you are grateful for their support.

5. Follow up with the person closer to the deadline to make sure they have everything they need and to remind them of the deadline.

Check out our Letter of Rec how to guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PwQF9iJZcaleZK7znGe7i2q6RhmBbYXzF2G9xi6ZgUU/edit?usp=sharing

Remember to choose your recommenders carefully and to give them the information and support they need to write a strong letter on your behalf. 

An associates degree is a two-year undergraduate degree that can be earned at a community college or technical school. It typically requires about 60 credit hours of coursework and can lead to employment or transfer to a bachelors degree program.

A bachelors degree is a four-year undergraduate degree that is typically earned at a college or university. It typically requires about 120 credit hours of coursework and is often required for certain careers or advanced education.

Some key differences between associates and bachelors degrees include:

• Length of program: An associates degree is typically completed in two years, while a bachelors degree is typically completed in four years.

• Cost: An associates degree may be less expensive and quicker to complete, while a bachelors degree may be more expensive and take longer to complete.

• Career opportunities: An associates degree may provide entry-level job opportunities or the ability to transfer to a bachelors degree program, while a bachelors degree may provide more career opportunities and higher earning potential.

• Requirements: The specific requirements for an associates or bachelors degree can vary depending on the institution and the field of study. It's important to research the requirements for the programs you are considering.

Overall, the decision between pursuing an associates or bachelors degree depends on your career goals, financial situation, and other factors. It's important to do your research and to carefully consider your options before making a decision.

 Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

1. Research the differences between associates and bachelors degrees. An associates degree is typically a two-year program that can lead to employment or transfer to a bachelors degree program, while a bachelors degree is a four-year program that is often required for certain careers or advanced education.

2. Consider your career goals and the requirements for the careers you are interested in. A bachelors degree may be necessary for certain careers, while an associates degree may be sufficient for others.

3. Evaluate your financial situation and the cost of pursuing an associates or bachelors degree. An associates degree may be less expensive and quicker to complete, but a bachelors degree may provide more opportunities and higher earning potential in the long run.

4. Talk to a college counselor, career advisor, or other trusted adults about your options and get their input and advice.

5. Make a list of pros and cons for each option, and use it to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each degree.

6. Trust your instincts and make a decision that feels right for you. Remember that you can always change your mind and pursue a different degree later on if necessary.

Remember to do your research and to seek out advice and support as you make your decision. 

Here are some tips for writing a great resume as a high school student:

1. Start by organizing your information and making a list of your relevant experiences and achievements, such as academic honors, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs.

2. Use a clear and easy-to-read format, such as a reverse-chronological order, to present your information. Check out our resume template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HV4s6qJbYBt-X-ygKyVOuMJEfYi-EwKLnWv_uLAaBp0/edit?usp=sharing

3. Include a brief objective or summary statement at the top of your resume that highlights your strengths and goals.

4. Use action verbs and specific examples to describe your experiences and achievements, and avoid using vague or general language.

5. Proofread your resume carefully to check for spelling and grammar errors, and have someone else review it as well.

6. Tailor your resume to the specific job or internship you are applying for, and highlight the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the position.

Remember to keep your resume concise and focused, and to include only the information that is most relevant and impressive. 

Here is a more detailed guide on how to create a resume: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KIX49vZeFqv4jYnN4lpjuvk09LF0Xr0uUhmrzRTfkQA/edit?usp=sharing

Check out our detailed Personal Statement College Essay Guide with Brainstorming activities: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17n-Rab8fUvdd6RsGaTHQgUk_KjcVjuWpJhLlnfX1X5g/edit?usp=sharing

To write a good college essay, follow these steps:

1. Start by brainstorming ideas and choosing a topic that is meaningful and relevant to you. Consider your unique experiences and perspectives, and think about what sets you apart from other applicants.

2. Create an outline to organize your essay and guide your writing. Include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

3. Begin writing your essay, using clear and concise language to convey your ideas and experiences. Avoid using overly complex or flowery language, and stick to the point.

4. Use specific examples and details to support your points and make your essay more compelling.

5. Edit and revise your essay carefully, checking for spelling and grammar errors, and making sure your essay flows logically and cohesively.

6. Proofread your essay one last time before submitting it to make sure it is free of errors and polished to perfection.

Remember to give yourself enough time to write and revise your essay, and to seek feedback and advice from others if needed. 

Resume Template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HV4s6qJbYBt-X-ygKyVOuMJEfYi-EwKLnWv_uLAaBp0/edit?usp=sharing

Resume Help: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KIX49vZeFqv4jYnN4lpjuvk09LF0Xr0uUhmrzRTfkQA/edit?usp=sharing

College Essay Help: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Rdp-LQF2vdNp0iE6tmA-oVDS-jzYbxxf0IvlSmPv9R8/edit

Reach/Safety/Target: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1hUvZFOrxqeqDHtBIuCWnoT_0B-80RmqbUL5AWVCMWZU/edit?usp=sharing

Admission Table: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14nbSGSM5TF5P48ZdbV6KLflPrKgTN1os/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=107700992037886585242&rtpof=true&sd=true

Admission Timeline: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QEmDa_cetlI08ln3QEGZr_69Ozi9eFpLFXzGv2IeuEQ/edit?usp=sharing

Activities Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13gLVtVH1jEYL0KP-tKOBRTlGZ7t-K2iCpFeFPZ1ZG1c/edit?usp=sharing

Letter of Rec 101: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PwQF9iJZcaleZK7znGe7i2q6RhmBbYXzF2G9xi6ZgUU/edit?usp=sharing