This is the season for applying to your dream school and other esteemed universities. Securing a spot at your dream institution can be daunting. It’s beneficial to be aware of some prevalent myths surrounding the admissions process.
- Grades are important, but colleges also consider the rigor of your coursework. Therefore, a “B” in an Advanced Placement class may be viewed as favorably as an “A” in a regular class.
- Test scores will ruin your chances. For many schools, they are just one aspect of the application, and in fall 2024, over 1,900 schools will not require applicants to submit test scores—though if you did perform well, it’s beneficial to share your scores.
- The more activities you are involved in the better. Being involved in numerous activities is advantageous, but colleges prioritize the quality over the quantity of extracurricular engagements. Thus, assuming a significant leadership position in one club may be more beneficial than simply holding membership in several groups.
- An in-person visit will boost your chances of acceptance. Other methods to show interest in a college include sending emails, requesting virtual interviews, engaging in social media interactions, or reaching out to alumni.
- You should only ask for a letter of recommendation from a teacher who gave you an A. Selecting a teacher who is well-acquainted with you and can offer insights into your character and development is advisable.
- You shouldn’t be creative in your admission essay. Colleges review thousands of essays, so it’s crucial that yours makes an impression. However, the most vital aspect is to convey something authentic about yourself that truly reflects your identity.
Parental Advice: Everything is going to work out. There is a great school out there for everyone.
Take a moment to relax. Truly, in the broader context of life, college is merely a brief chapter. It’s important to maintain a balanced outlook when faced with setbacks, be it academic grades, athletic performance, or any other area.
Encourage your child to strive for excellence in all pursuits, to learn from errors, to cultivate resilience and determination, to form effective study routines, and to lead a life of integrity. Having those core values will take your child far!
Also, remember that there is more than one way to success. However, you may define it. “When you fail to prepare, you’re preparing to fail,” John Wooden. Sometimes we get caught up in a plan, and when that plan falls through, we think it’s over. But in fact, things have only just begun: “When one door closes, another one opens.” When I am spending time with students and parents, I always tell them about Plan B or maybe even Plan C.
For college applications, have your child cast their net wide and see where things fall. Whatever happens, your child can bring everything they has learned up to this point and apply it…and then, keep growing! Where they go to college doesn’t matter as much as what they will do once they get there. The sky’s the limit; nothing should stop your child from reaching for the stars!
