16 February 2012

Part II of this series focuses on managing the personal aspects of taking the big step of applying to college. Part I discussed managing the application process. 

DON’T Sell Yourself Short

Colleges are not looking only for students from pricey private schools or the rare genius who turned his or her lemonade stand into a multimillion dollar company at age 14, but how do you make yourself stand out in a large applicant pool? First, value your unique life experience and then communicate that in your application. Show how you had a creative idea and produced a great result. Describe the people involved and the impact it had on the community, no matter how big or small it might seem to you.

DO Manage Your Online Profiles

Social media plays a big role in modern society. The added challenge for today’s college applicant is in managing your online identity, as it can make or break your application. College admissions officers don’t actively search the internet for the thousands of students who apply, but they will respond to anonymous tips they receive. A good rule of thumb while you are in the application process is not to post something you wouldn’t want your grandma to see. On the flip side, make sure whatever public information you do have is “flattering/beneficial” and supports your credentials. For example, if you’re a writer or a designer, then showcase your best pieces on your blog or in your profile.

DON’T Burn Bridges

As tempting as it may be to scream “Why do you keep making us read Shakespeare? He’s so old!” to your literature teacher, doing so is not wise. Maintain a good relationship not only with your teachers but also with your guidance counselor, principal, or boss. When it comes time to write your recommendation, what they have to say may make or break your application.

DO Know Yourself

If you know you need a structured environment to get your studying done, don’t apply to a school that is notorious for partying. If you thrive in big crowds or cities, don’t apply to a small liberal arts college in Nebraska. You’ll be spending several years in this new environment and you want to make sure it supports your best interests. Find the university that fits you best; this will bring out your full potential.

DON’T Overstress Yourself

John Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you when you’re busy making other plans.” Our view of the future is sometimes foggy, and we can be our own worst enemy at times. Enjoy your day-to-day life and know that, as long as you put your best foot forward, you are closer to peace of mind.

DON’T Get Tunnel Vision

You may think there is only one straight and narrow way to college admission, but nothing could be further from the truth. Ms. Dara Lewis graduated from high school at age 16 and is now spending a year at Montgomery Community College while applying to four-year universities. She shared how her current experience affected her future outlook: “Have an open mind about college and the whole process! Don't be so stuck in your own way that you miss opportunities. For example, I wasn’t keen on the idea at first that I might have to do ROTC to pay for school so I can become a doctor. Then I discovered that after I get my degree I could travel with the Army as a doctor on base, a benefit I hadn’t thought of. So just keep an open mind.”

Follow the “Do” steps and you are sure to succeed with your college applications.

This article was written by Lauren Bush, Program Associate at the American Dental Education Association’s Center for Educational Policy and Research.