Friday, July 2, 2010

Be A Sought After College Applicant

You plan on going to college, however it's not as easy as it used to be to get accepted. Colleges no longer rely on class ranking or a good GPA. Start researching specific college requirements early. As a high school student consider a few activities now that will look good for college entrance later on and show that you will be an active contributing member of their student body.


Instructions


1. Show a high school curriculum that is challenging. Honors and Advanced Placement classes are an indicator of a successful student. Slightly lower grades in a rigorous course are preferred to all A's in less challenging class. Grades should reflect an upward trend over the years. Steady improvement is something looked for.


2. Get solid scores on standardized tests. Consider seeking testing assistance from an outside source or company that specializes in these tests.


3. Show involvement in a few activities that demonstrate leadership skills. It's better to be involved with one activity or group and do a lot with it, than have sparse involvement with several. Also along these lines, get involved in community service to show you have a global outlook and concern for others. Scouting or Church groups are a fun way to get involved in service.








4. Show any work history. Any work or out-of-school experiences prove the student is responsible, dedicated and has maturity. Being an intern in an industry, though it pays less, scores big points for college entrance.








5. Write a personal application essay. Believe it or not, college entrance officials want to see a personal, well thought out essay. Big sounding words or canned phrases won't set you apart. Instead demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing that tells a lot about you.


6. Request letters of recommendations from guidance counselors and teachers that will talk about any special skills or character traits and evidence of your integrity. Ask any other adult for a recommendation that has had significant contact with you such as a coach, church leader, scouting leader or supervisor at work.


7. Include anything special about yourself that makes you stand out whether it's a unique experience you've had, unusual skill or talent, honors, awards or a hobby.

Tags: college entrance, that will, activities that, high school