First Week of School - Time to Move Your College Search Into Gear

Seniors—it's time to get down to business! You may think that November and December, when most college applications are due, are far down the road, but they'll be here in the blink of an eye. Here are some things you can and should be doing right now:

The Common App is open. If you plan to apply to any of the 488 colleges that are members, create your account now! You can start filling in your extra-curricular activities and writing your essay. This is your chance to show colleges why you are special! Take this opportunity now, before you get wrapped up in schoolwork and the excitement of your senior year.

If you plan to apply to Cal State college campuses, visit www.CSUmentor.com. You won't be able to start your actual application until after Oct. 1, but you can start entering your classes and grades in the High School Planner.

You will be able to access the full CSU and University of California applications Oct. 1.

In the meantime, set aside at least an hour each week—pick a regular time and stick to it—to do some final college research before you start your applications.  Remember, there isn’t just one "perfect" school for you. There are over 2,200 four-year colleges in the United States, and another several thousand two-year colleges (most of them community colleges). There is more than one fish in this sea for you! 

Take the time to explore your own academic development, think about what kind of educational environment works best for you, and investigate colleges you’ve heard of and even those you haven’t. You might be surprised.

Need some additional guidance? Visit this page for some links and downloads (about essays, college visits, making yourself stand out, what colleges are looking for, and more) you might find useful as you go through your college search.

Juniors and sophomores – your time is coming faster than you think! I’ll have some advice and thoughts for you next week!