College Application Process Tips

Seamus Galvin • December 10, 2025

Work on Applications Early

Especially if you’re applying to many schools with multiple supplemental essays, then you need to start early. Do not be like me, who decides to procrastinate 24/7 and is now under pressure to finish all my supplemental essays with never-ending homework from all my AP classes. However, I always recommend going at your own pace, and if you don’t have many essays to write, then I would especially encourage you to take your time on the essays. Also, if you work on your essays early, you can relieve some stress that picks at the back of your brain.

Brainstorm For Your Essays Before You Write

Putting your ideas down on a piece of paper or a document helps a lot with the writing process. Brainstorming helps manage all of your ideas and spotlights the most important aspects of your identity that are most important to demonstrating your voice.

Make Sure You Apply to Schools You Actually Want to Attend

Don't fill out unnecessary applications for schools you wouldn’t like to go to. You don’t want to get into a school and have that be your only option, and then you’re forced to be miserable the next four years of your life.

When Filling Out the “Why College” Essay, Make It “Niche”

You want to explain to the school the best way you can how you are a perfect fit for that school. If you have a niche dream, it makes you more unique, and make sure you research about school beforehand. You want to include niche programs, seminars, courses, etc, as well as to show you really care about the school.

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