Tip of the Week - Sept. 15, 2011

Finding the Perfect College
2013 and above: It's time to start thinking about the characteristics in a college you would want to attend. Pretend that you could create the perfect college; what type of school would be just right for you. As yourself: 

• Where is this college located? (city, state or geographic location)
• What types of students go there? (religious, race or gender affiliations)
• What classes would you take?
• What type of social activities would be offered? (sports, clubs or off campus activities)
• How large is the college?

Once you answer these questions, enter these characteristics into the Discover Program to help you develop a list of colleges to research in more detail. Getting started early in identifying colleges you may be interested in attending will help take a lot of stress off you during your junior and senior years.   

2012: Start your admissions applications as early as possible!
We know this is easier said than done; especially if you are involved in a fall sport or club. Set aside a little time each week to work on your admission applications. At this point you should:

1. Have your college list finalized; knowing when your application is due (be sure to look at scholarship deadlines that may be earlier than the regular admission deadline).
2. Have signed up for an upcoming SAT/ACT if you have not already taken it or are not satisfied with your scores
3. Have already requested your teacher recommendations.
4. If you have not completed one of these three steps; you need to set a side extra time to catch up! You do not want to be scrambling to get everything done last minute.

REMINDER: The deadline to register for the October 22nd ACT is September 16th; that is THIS Friday!  If you plan to take this test, register today to avoid late fees.