Top Five Things to Know When Applying to Universities

What should you consider when applying to college?  If you are a high school student or someone who is planning to pursue higher education, then this post is for you.  Here are the top five things to know when applying to universities, according to one expert.

1.      What a ranking really means.

–          A college’s high ranking does not mean that its educational opportunities and lifestyle are right for any particular student.

2.     The importance of the campus visit.

–          Many colleges today give admissions preferences to students who show “demonstrated interest.”  One of the strongest demonstrations of interest is visiting the campus.

3.     Each high school has an advocate who you should get to know.

–           Each four year college in the US has a representative from their admissions office assigned to ever high school in the country. This is often who is assigned to read each of the high school students’ applications and can arguing a student’s case in selection meetings.

4.     Having the admissions office on speed dial.

–          Having frequent, personal contact with a college admissions office can be a “tip factor” in getting admitted to a college. Daniel Golden, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist has noted that “…all things being equal, colleges tend to favor strong applicants who make the most contacts with the school–interviews, campus overnights, visits, college fairs and the like.”

5.     A little follow up can go a long way.

–          Admissions personnel have spoken at length about the difference a brief ‘thank you’ note can make.

Marjorie Hansen Shaevitz:

Shaevitz is a renowned speaker, professional counselor, and award-winning author. Her latest book, adMISSION POSSIBLE®: The “Dare to Be Yourself” Guide for Getting Into the Best College for You, helps students submit applications that “are just a little bit different and just a little bit better,” than the competition’s by allowing their uniqueness to shine through.  Marjorie has helped thousands of students get in colleges worldwide and can speak to a broad range of education topics. Hansen Shaevitz is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), Independent Educational Consultant’s Association (IECA) and a Unigo Expert Network columnist. She is a former member of the Stanford University’s Parents’ Board and Chair of the Advisory Council for Stanford’s Institute for Women & Gender.