These days application numbers are up.  Many students are applying to more schools than ever to “better their odds”. It is important to remember that the most competitive school where one is able to gain admission, isn’t necessarily the right choice for that student.  Consider everything; size, location, academics and imagine yourself in that academic and social environment.

It has become easier than ever to file applications at a multitude of schools.  This alone has increased the number of applications and decreased the percentages of students admitted at many schools .  At TheCollegeCoach we believe in doing the research on the front end.  Our hope is that every school where  a student submits an application is a place where he or she might actually enroll. We work to help students find that magic list of schools—safeties, good matches and reaches—all schools they would strongly consider attending.

We found this interview with a Wake Forest Admission Director very informative.  Take a look and let us know if you have thoughts or questions.

http://rethinkingadmissions.blogs.wfu.edu/2009/09/08/wake-forests-admissions-director-shares-her-top-ten-list/

Recently, I came across this article.  Thought it might be of interest to many of you thinking about collegiate athletics.

http://magazine.continental.com/201003-iom

High School Juniors and Parents–This post is for you!

As if it’s not enough that you are completing the most academically challenging semester of high school. The AP exams are coming up; AND you are preparing for and taking the SAT and ACT.  And wait…college application season is right around the corner.

Don’t stress.  We’re here to help you streamline the process and work to find YOUR best college options. We will guide you through the application process, and help create a resume that shows admissions counselors the very best YOU.  Essay topic brainstorming sessions are our specialty and we will assist you so that your essays really stand out in today’s larger-than-ever applicant pools.

Contact us today to reserve your spot and we’ll help make senior year a little more relaxing.

As we approach college commitment day, May 1st, you may be confused about where you will go, especially if you have been waitlisted at your 1st choice school.  By May 1st, you will need to choose another school even though you still might have a shot at number 1. Do all that you can to show continued interest and your good grades. If possible, make a visit or  set up a personal interview via telephone if they allow.  Also remember, that there is a fine line between expressing continued interest and annoying your admissions counselor.  Use discretion. Create a professional, yet personal relationship with your college’s admissions representative. Perhaps an email every few weeks and remember to send a personal thank you note if you have the opportunity to meet or have a phone call with an admissions counselor.

Many waitlisted students who have chosen an alternate school with full intention of attending receive word in June or even July, that they have been accepted off of the waitlist.  This really happens! If you think you would consider making the last minute switch, definitely stay on the waitlist. If you know that once you commit to School B, there would be no way you would change, consider taking yourself off of the waitlist NOW to give others who might actually attend a chance at admission.

Hang in there, the wait will soon be over.

If you are a high school junior, the time is now. You should be thinking about college! Spring break is a great time to look at potential college choices. If you decide to go visiting, make sure that their spring break is not the same as your planned visit.  It is very important to visit campuses when the students are there and the campus is buzzing with activity.

Also, are you ready for the SAT/ACT?  We recommend testing as early as possible. Try both the SAT and ACT and if you decide to test again choose the one you prefer and concentrate on preparing for that ONE test. Remember, colleges will take either test. You can send both but it is not necessary.  Also, remember that the best time to take subject tests are when the subject is still fresh in your mind—June.

If you are an applicant who has been waitlisted at any of your top choice schools, be sure to have your high school send your mid-year report to them and that you also share any further evidence of your academic abilities.  This will demonstrate your continued interest in the school and can sometimes be just what the admissions committee needs in order to send an acceptance letter. Also, letters stating your continued interest can be helpful too.  Don’t be afraid to reiterate that should you be offered admission, you will attend.