When students are applying to colleges and universities, there are a number of gaffes that get in the way of their institution of choice. One needs to evaluate their steps before taking the plunge. The following is a list of some pointers that may help you take the right steps.
Start early: That means before completing high school. The sooner you complete your application the sooner you will receive a decision and your scholarship. This provides you time to investigate and weigh all of your options.
Contact universities of interest and research the steps of the application process. Pre-planning can eliminate a lengthy trial and error method.
College ‘fit’ goes both ways: Students need to understand the need for being the “right-fit” for a suitable college. You need to exhibit the potential to be highly successful and benefit most from the uniqueness of the applied institution.
Instead of making the case that you’re great, make the case that you’re a great match with the university in question.
Do your research: A student needs to do diligent research about each college; keep your mind open to change. You may find a match for yourself that you never imagined. Keep in mind your field of interest and future career prospects.
Students should understand clearly the field that they’re going into, and the path they have to follow to be successful. Students need to understand
that not all colleges offer the same majors or degrees, and that not all universities have law, dental, and medical schools.
Who you really are: Make your admission essay unique and true to you. Being authentic is what an admission officer is looking for, not your fabricated imagination of your likings but your real interests and passions.
Mind the deadline: You need to understand all the different deadlines for each college and work accordingly. Applying for scholarships and financial aid takes up more time and may have separate deadlines. So keep all this in mind.
Keep in touch: If interested in a particular college, get on the mailing list. Contact a current student, alumnus, or admission representative. Stay in touch with the admissions counselors. They can be a big help navigating a very challenging process.
The personal touch can also help give the student an additional advocate when the time comes for decisions. Check the e-mail account you listed on your application daily. If your contact information changes, notify immediately.
Parents need not apply: Students should be the ones to keep in touch with admissions counselors, not the parents. When the time comes for an institution to make the decision, it will help them have a better sense of who they are admitting and how well that person will fit in as a student.
Choose wisely: Students are more likely to succeed if they choose a college and major based on passion rather than potential earnings. You are more likely to be fulfilled and follow through with your intended field if money isn’t your primary motivation. If you are undecided regarding your major, then choose an institute that allows you to weigh out various options to choose from when the time comes.
