TIPS FOR COMPLETING COLLEGE APPLICATIONS
In an admission report from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Education Council the following reminder was given to future applicants:
“The application folder is your single opportunity to influence the admissions process. Approach each aspect of the application as an opportunity. Devote time and thought to each of the various portions.”
As you think about your folder circulating among an admissions committee, consider the following:
Read every word of the directions before you even print your name.
Click here to see a sample resume. (PDF file)
The Etiquette of Asking for a Recommendation
1. Ask the teacher/counselor in person.
2. Ask in such a way that the teacher is free to decline your invitation if he/she feels a strong, positive letter is not possible. (“Would you be willing to write a college letter of recommendation for me?”)
3. Ask the teacher as soon as possible: Oct. 1 for early applications and Oct. 15 for regular applications, at the latest. You do not have to have a finalized list before you ask. Ask your teachers to write a letter for you and then attach a copy to whatever form(s) you eventually provide.
4. Make sure you fill out the student section of the form before giving the form to the teacher.
5. You may help the writer by suggesting a theme or focus for the letter and providing a list of your activities.
6. Provide a resume for your counselor and others from whom you request a letter of recommendation. (See sample resume below.)
7. Make sure you provide a form and a stamped, addressed envelope for each letter you want sent.
8. Write a note of thanks to the writer of your recommendation(s).
9. When you hear from the colleges, make sure you inform the teachers who wrote for you the results of your application. Remember that they have something invested in your college process.
10. Above all, remember that writing a good letter of recommendation requires a significant amount of time, time that is above and beyond the call of duty. Make sure that you stay on top of deadlines and paperwork, so that you do not make unnecessary work for the teacher, and so that writing of the recommendation is as uncomplicated as possible.
“The application folder is your single opportunity to influence the admissions process. Approach each aspect of the application as an opportunity. Devote time and thought to each of the various portions.”
As you think about your folder circulating among an admissions committee, consider the following:
- Be aware that along with your application, colleges review:Your academic transcript for grades 9-11, as well a list of your senior classes.
- Special attention is given to your grades, your grade pattern, your overall grade point average, the courses you have taken and your class rank.
- ACT/SAT performance can be helpful in supporting your academic record. (Check your colleges’ requirements.)
- Some consider extracurricular activities, recommendations, the applicant’s personal essay, personal interview, alumni connections, and personal strengths.
Read every word of the directions before you even print your name.
- Make a copy to use as a worksheet.
- If you choose to use online applications:
- Always print a copy of your application prior to sending it.
- Give a copy to your counselor with the forms she needs to complete.
- Avoid filing online the week before the application deadline. This is the most risky time to file because of volume and likelihood of system failure.
- When applying online with a credit card, payments can take weeks to reach a school. Print out a voucher and pay by check if this option is available.
- Always call or email the college within 14 days to verify receipt of your online application.
- Essays should be error-free, thoughtful, logical and organized. Use comfortable vocabulary. Be yourself. The essay should say something the rest of the application doesn’t say ~ elaborate on a talent, an interest, and thoughts on a world or local problem, a personal accomplishment. Stay within the length limit for the essay.
- Use specific examples when describing your interests and achievements. Explain your involvement ~ why things you chose to discuss are important to you. It is better to emphasize the degree of involvement in a few activities than a long list of superficial interests.
- Typing or printing is acceptable. In some cases, you will be required to write an essay in your own handwriting. Neatness and legibility are obviously essential. (Use blank ink when printing.)
- Proofread. Spelling errors are unacceptable.
- Photo copies (clear ones) are perfectly acceptable, but sign each one individually. Your name should be on each page or article submitted in addition to the application.
- Proofread again!
Click here to see a sample resume. (PDF file)
The Etiquette of Asking for a Recommendation
1. Ask the teacher/counselor in person.
2. Ask in such a way that the teacher is free to decline your invitation if he/she feels a strong, positive letter is not possible. (“Would you be willing to write a college letter of recommendation for me?”)
3. Ask the teacher as soon as possible: Oct. 1 for early applications and Oct. 15 for regular applications, at the latest. You do not have to have a finalized list before you ask. Ask your teachers to write a letter for you and then attach a copy to whatever form(s) you eventually provide.
4. Make sure you fill out the student section of the form before giving the form to the teacher.
5. You may help the writer by suggesting a theme or focus for the letter and providing a list of your activities.
6. Provide a resume for your counselor and others from whom you request a letter of recommendation. (See sample resume below.)
7. Make sure you provide a form and a stamped, addressed envelope for each letter you want sent.
8. Write a note of thanks to the writer of your recommendation(s).
9. When you hear from the colleges, make sure you inform the teachers who wrote for you the results of your application. Remember that they have something invested in your college process.
10. Above all, remember that writing a good letter of recommendation requires a significant amount of time, time that is above and beyond the call of duty. Make sure that you stay on top of deadlines and paperwork, so that you do not make unnecessary work for the teacher, and so that writing of the recommendation is as uncomplicated as possible.