Ask the Consultant: HELP, Typo in my Common App!!

Q: I submitted my Common Application a few weeks ago. When I looked back at it again, I noticed a typo in my activities. What do I do?

A: A college representative was visiting our office a few weeks ago, and we asked the same question of her. "Students need to realize that we are human too! We are far more understanding than they think!"

Mistakes happen all the time! 

So what should you do if you discover an error in an application that has already been submitted? If it absolutely needs to be corrected, such as an incorrect essay version or glaring typo, the student should call the school and ask what their policy is for correcting the mistake. Often, the college will have the student email the change to the general admission email -- an admission staff member can then make the adjustment on their end, sometimes even before the file has been reviewed. If the error is more of an oops than egregious, it can be a harder call. Sometimes, it is better just to let it go. Pointing out the error may draw more attention to it, which could be a bad thing.

"I totally get it! These kids are juggling so much," said the rep. "Even calling us the wrong name in a supplement I'll let go if the rest of the application is strong."

Look for the Green Check!

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Ask the Consultant: Do Mid-Year Grades Count?

Q: Do mid-year grades really count in college admissions, even if I’m applying Early Decision or Early Action?

A: Most colleges will want to see your senior mid-year grades, no matter when you submit your application or whether you apply Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision.  What are they looking for?  Well, as you would expect, they want to see that you are maintaining your performance or, better yet, have an upward trajectory which might strengthen your application.  For those applicants “on the bubble,” solid mid-year grades can help tip the scale in the applicant’s favor.  

Can't I relax???

Even accepted Early Decision candidates are expected to maintain the same level of achievement as in prior years.  Admission offers can be (and have been) rescinded with a significant drop in grades. So, don’t slack off once those applications are in or almost done.  It’s a stressful time, we know, but you’re almost there.  Maintain your grades to optimize your chances for admission – even in your senior year!

Student to Student

Q: I'm a junior and I'm starting to put my college list together. I'm not really sure what I want to study -- or what size school I want.

A: It’s okay not to know! If you are unsure of what path you want to follow, do not stress out. Many students enter their freshman year without knowing their intended major. Most liberal arts colleges do not require you to declare a major until your sophomore year, so you have time to explore different areas of study. You aren’t alone!

Make a pros and cons list! It's not always easy to differentiate one school from the next. Make a pros and cons list for each school, taking into consideration programs, courses, sports, clubs, social life, tuition, location, etc.

Make the best choice for yourself! Family and friends often have the tendency to pressure you towards one school. Remember that it is YOU who will be attending the school, not them. While their opinions can be helpful, it is your future and therefore your decision. Choose the schools that are best for you.

Our summer intern Laura Card is a sophomore at Colgate University, where she plans to major in Biology and Women's Studies. 

Ask the Consultant: Test Optional Colleges

Q: The college I am applying to is test optional.  Will it hurt me if I don’t submit my standardized test scores?

A: Many colleges no longer require standardized test scores in the application process.  They find that the results of the ACT or SAT have little predictive value in determining student success at the college level. As such, not submitting your standardized test scores will not be held against you.  At the same time, colleges that are test optional put more weight on your high school transcript, so if you have a lackluster transcript and high standardized test scores you may wish to send them as part of your application. You always want to put your best foot forward in the college application process, so if your scores will help your application then submit them, but if they are not indicative of your caliber as a student, then don’t send them; the college won’t hold that against you.

Student to Student

Q: I'm in the thick of application craziness! Tips?

A: Don’t sell yourself short! Apply to schools even if you think that they’re a reach. The worst that can happen is they say no. Who knows, you may surprise yourself!

Do your research! Explore university web pages and learn more about the schools you are interested in. Look up offered programs, scholarships, courses, sports, clubs, nightlife, etc. Email your admissions representative and try to set up a lunch or online conversation with an alum or current student in your area!

Stand out! Your essay is your chance to let your personality shine. Avoid the cookie-cutter essays and really make the effort to stand out from other applicants. Your resume, too, is a great way to show the university how you choose to spend your time.

It’s okay to not know! If you are unsure of what path you want to follow do not stress out. Many students enter their freshman year without knowing their intended major. Most schools do not require you to declare a major until your sophomore year, so you have time to explore different areas of study. You aren’t alone!

Our summer intern Laura Card is a sophomore at Colgate University, where she plans to major in Biology and Women's Studies. 

Ask the Consultant: Oh Canada!

Q: I’ve heard that Canadian universities are much more affordable.  I'd like to consider that option. What should I keep in mind?

A: It is true that universities in Canada can be quite affordable.  There are many excellent options for schools and tuition is often significantly less than at U.S. colleges and universities.  Most Canadian universities are medium to large public schools.  Smaller, liberal arts colleges are not as numerous but can be well worth the look.  Often students must apply to a particular program or school within the university, although “undetermined” can be an option as a choice of program.  Typically, the transcript, grades, and test scores are the most important components of an application, with the junior and senior year grades of utmost importance in admission decisions.  Standardized test scores are given more weight in admission than at most U.S. schools, so plan ahead in order to present excellent SAT or ACT scores, as well as SAT subject tests.  Canadian schools don’t usually require an essay, although there are exceptions, and most do not require recommendation letters. 

Go to the official website of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada for more information www.univcan.ca.

Personality Pays Off

When applying to graduate business schools, students often feel the need to let numbers and accomplishments alone tell their story.  Essays written like professional memos tend to get lackluster results.  Remember, when admission committees are reviewing applications they want to create a class of individuals that will work well with others, have the interpersonal skills to be sought after by employers, and be ambassadors for the school.  Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through the writing and tell an interesting and engaging story.  And yes, make sure you have that killer resume ready to go as well! 

Ask the Consultant: Including a Resume

Q: Several of the colleges I am applying to have the option to upload a resume.  Should I include one?

A: Including a resume as part of your application can be a great way to provide more details about your accomplishments.  The Common Application only allows you to include ten activities and a brief description of each extracurricular.  If you feel that that is inadequate, then a resume is a great tool.  However, if your resume simply rehashes what you have already included in your Common Application then don’t waste the time of your admission reader.

Why Two Years Before You Start College is Important

Last year was the first application cycle that parents were able to complete their financial aid forms with their prior-prior year income.  What does that mean?  For students enrolling in college for the fall of 2018, students and parents will use income and tax information from 2016.  So, dig out your 2016 tax return and get ready.  The FAFSA is available starting October 1st.