Applying to college can be an overwhelming process, made even more challenging by increasing competition each year. With so much information to digest and decisions to make about their future, students are forced to bear the weight of the application process, often also in the midst of their hardest academic journey to date with AP courses, Honors classes, and extracurriculars.
At HS2 Academy, we know that with the right guidance and counseling, the process of applying to college can be much less stressful and far more successful. Through thousands of students over the twenty years of our work, we have been able to craft and implement methods of ours to constantly increase your chances of admissions throughout your high school career.
However, we also know that without the right advice, students may fall into common traps that can lead to disappointment at the end of the admissions process. In this article, we’ll discuss 7 common mistakes to avoid when applying to college and how college counseling can help you navigate the application process.
7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to College
Not Starting Early Enough
One of the most common mistakes students make when applying to college is not starting the process early enough. Many students wait until the last minute to start their applications, which often leads to rushing your application at the deadline. It is important to begin the process early so you can ensure all of your materials are in order and have time to make any necessary revisions. We have seen many cases where students feel differently about their supplemental essays a week after writing them and want to completely rewrite them hours before submission deadlines.
Not Visiting the College
Another common mistake students make is not visiting the college they are applying to. It’s important to visit the college and the local community to get a better sense of the campus and the people. Visiting the college can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you geographically and culturally. Finding the colleges that match your interests and personality will make the transition and time spent there much more valuable rather than assuming you will transition well immediately.
Not Knowing What You Want
A lot of students don’t know what they want in a college when they begin the application process. While it is natural, it’s important to have a general idea of what you like and do not like about a school’s opportunities, support system, and campus life. Knowing what goals you are looking to achieve or what your interests you want to pursue can help in deciding where you end up studying.
Not Getting Letters of Recommendation
Many students do not understand the importance of letters of recommendation when they are applying to college. Letters of recommendation are integral to the application process and can help you stand out from other applicants. With thousands of students taking the same courses and having the same extracurriculars, it is items like these letters that can create lasting impressions for your applications.
Not Planning Ahead
Another common mistake students make is not planning ahead for the application process. It’s important to plan ahead and create a timeline for the entire process. The experience of college counselors is probably most apparent in this context, as they know how long each step of the process should realistically take and are able to hold students accountable with their profiles and applications.
Not Showing Interest
Many students forget to show interest in the colleges they are applying to. It is important to demonstrate your interest in the college in multiple ways, even if you are unable to physically visit the school. By attending local events, reaching out to the regional liaison, and applying earlier, you can make strong impressions with certain schools.
Not Being Yourself
Finally, it’s important to be yourself when you are applying to college. It is easy to get caught up in what the college wants to hear and what you idealize for yourself, but it is important to be honest and authentic in your application. We at HS2 have found that authenticity remains the strongest way of communicating your passions, interests, and who you are as a person.
Navigating the college application process is becoming increasingly stressful, but with the right guidance, the process can be streamlined to maximize one's success at admissions to their top schools. By avoiding the 7 common mistakes listed above and enlisting the help of a college counselor, you can make sure your applications are successful. Avoid these mistakes with the help of our expert college counselors at HS2 Academy. With our twenty years of experience and guidance, we can find the right college for you and create an application that helps you stand out.
