Nix the inappropriate e-mail account
names: Using a formal e-mail address allows
colleges to take you seriously and demonstrates
your maturity level.
Be sure to check the e-mail address
you listed on the application: E-mail is
increasingly becoming the primary means of
communication between organizations and
applicants. Double-check that the e-mail address
listed is correct so that you don’t miss important deadlines,
events or even information you may need to complete the
application process.
Take the supplemental application
seriously: If you’ve received a supplemental
application, there’s a reason why the college is
requesting more information. Your responses
could affect whether you’ll be admitted or in the
running for special programs or scholarships. Take the time to
provide a thoughtful response.
Don’t goof off during senior year: Colleges
factor in your senior year schedule when
deciding to award scholarships. They also
review your final transcript after graduation
and, in some cases, may withdraw their
acceptance letter to students with poor performance.
List your cell phone number on your
application: Colleges may attempt to reach
you by phone. Avoid playing phone tag by
providing the best phone number where you
can be reached, which may be a cell number
rather than a home phone. Make sure your voicemail is
straightforward, rather than “cute.”
Never wait until the last minute:
Procrastinating only increases your likelihood
of making mistakes or missing out on
admissions and financial aid deadlines, or even
a dorm room assignment.
5 ADMISSION MISTAKES
THAT CAN RUIN YOUR
COLLEGE EXPERIENCE
Get the most out of your college experience.
FAILING TO VISIT THE CAMPUS: Any college can make
themselves look good on a billboard or website, so don’t miss an
opportunity to tour the campus. While you’re there, pick up the
school paper, talk to current students and professors, and check
flyers or bulletin boards around campus to get a better idea
about what it’s really like on-campus.
WAITING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE: Students who apply
early have access to the most resources available at a prospective
college, since some opportunities go on a first-come, first-served
basis. Failing to plan ahead or meet deadlines can leave students
without housing arrangements, or even a way to pay for college.
HAVING AN “UNDECLARED” MAJOR: Enrolling in college
without deciding on a major is fine— for the first year of college.
The longer a student waits to declare a major the more valuable
time and money they waste. If you want to graduate in four
years, you should have a general career interest in mind to guide
your course selection. Otherwise, you will need to be strategic in
choosing which courses to take.
BEING THE PICKY ROOMMATE: Being narrow-minded
when choosing a roommate, or even socializing in general can
hinder teens from learning to work with people who aren’t
like them. Part of the college experience includes dealing with
people with different personalities and backgrounds, even when
they don’t mesh with yours. You also don’t want to leave college
without learning how to build relationships and network, both
important skills needed in the career world.
NOT LOADING UP ON CLASSES: To stay on track to
graduate in four years (or less), students are responsible for
keeping up with their college credit, and planning their course
schedules accordingly. Most colleges charge the same amount
of tuition for students signed up for 12-16 credits. It’s also
important to note that freshman status is typically between 0 –
29 credits and senior status is 90 – 120+ credits, which makes it
easier to calculate how much longer until graduation.
Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the admissions
process, and you will be better prepared for a successful college
experience.
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