The College Application Process
I offer my clients a wide range of services in order to customize their college search process and help them meet their goals. The typical meetings/sessions that I recommend are set forth in the outline below. However, I am happy to customize a program for students that need assistance in particular areas of the college admissions process.
Introductory Session
Evaluate admission profile
Review transcript
Extra-curricular and summer activities
Special Interests
Testing
Initial College List
Compile list with consideration of:
Academic specialties
Selectivity
Test scores
Cost
Size, geography and other criteria
College Visits and Interview Preparation
Strategies for touring
Research programs and majors
Interview preparation
Demonstrating Interest
Personal Statement
Explore student’s values and experiences to select topic
Assist in drafting process
Edit and proofread
Final College List
Sort into categories (dream/reach/target/likely)
Review deadlines and requirements
Application checklists
Supplemental Essays (required by most colleges)
Brainstorm ways to strengthen specific college applications
College Acceptances and Awards Analysis
Clarify actual costs of college
Review and explore scholarships and loans
Bottom line comparisons
Recommended Meeting Timeline:
Junior Year – Fall/Winter:
Introductory Session
Junior Year – Winter/Spring:
Summer Plans
Testing
Activities Descriptions/Resume
College List
College Visits and Fairs
Rising Senior - Summer:
Personal Statement
Univ of CA Personal Insight Questions
College Visits
Portfolios if required
Senior Year - Fall:
College Visits (in student’s region, including admission reps visits to area)
Interviews
Letters of Recommendation
Applications
Testing
Preparing Supplements
FAFSA (Oct 1)
Senior Year - Spring:
College Acceptances and Awards Analysis