A letter for seniors: college admissions reminders

By Alexandra Zurborg,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

Hey seniors! By now, you should already be thinking about post high school plans. Whether you are deciding to go to trade school, the military, straight to work, college or community college, we are here to help! The main goal for this new section of the HUB is to bring the class of 2021 together and provide updates on scholarship opportunities, deadlines and upcoming events.

For seniors applying to college, here are some tips for filling out your common app, UC application and CSU applications.

Make sure that everything is correct such as personal information, parent information and your grades. Proofreading is important — make sure that everything is honest and accurate.

You should have also requested an unofficial transcript by now. If you haven’t done so yet, head to parchment.com and create a profile. A copy of your unofficial transcript will be sent to you in a day. This will aid you when filling out courses, however an official transcript will be sent through parchment to the common app at a later time for schools that need it.

Most seniors who are applying to a four-year college will probably be using the Common App. This year there is a new section right next to the additional information section that allows you to explain how COVID-19 has affected your life. Use this to your advantage! It gives you a great opportunity to explain whether you had a difficulty transitioning online, contracted COVID, employment disruptions, food insecurity, limited internet access or toll on mental health.

In addition, over 500 colleges and universities have switched to a test optional policy, according to the New York Times, meaning personality may count more than ever. Admission teams will be taking a closer look at essays, not just the numbers. Make sure your essay represents who you are. 

Some key things to take into consideration during this application session is that admission officers are understanding of this unusual circumstance. College admissions are trained to take this situation seriously and are prepared to be more sensitive and flexible when it comes to admissions. 

With the challenges many have faced recently in our personal lives, it is okay to not be on top of everything! We as students are here to help and guide you through the process of figuring out the next chapter in your life. Advice continuing forward: reach out to school counselors if needed as they are always here to help. Their emails can be found on the DHS website. Devote your energy on information you can complete on the application, without worrying about the information you can’t complete due to these disruptions.