How Students Can Thrive During the College Admissions Process

It’s the end of the school year, the time when admissions officers, college counselors, students, and parents alike typically breathe a sigh of relief that the college admissions process is over for this year’s seniors.

Before we close the books on this academic year, however, let’s take a minute to reflect on how things went this time around. 

Once again, the number of applications to colleges broke records, admit rates fell, and colleges continued to fill significant portions of their incoming classes with Early Decision applicants. With all the mania, it seems that college outcomes are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Our admissions round-up blogs, however, are great sources to learn more about the latest trends to understand where you fit amongst them. Check out our articles on the Class of 2024 Early College Admissions Results or Higher Education Admissions Trends 2023 Early Decision Statistics for more.

Still, in the midst of this frenzy, our students had a very successful year. Most of them had good news early, and even more importantly, our students are enrolling this fall at colleges they would describe as “best-fit” choices. What do we mean? Best-fit colleges provide outstanding academics, of course, but they also offer opportunities to broaden students’ extracurricular, social, and personal horizons. In short, our students are headed to communities where they can be happy and grow.

So how did they do it? What do kids and families who found very different “best-fit” colleges have in common with one another?

They identified and enjoyed authentic interests and pursuits.

People often ask us if there are specific activities that will look good on college applications. Our answer is always the same: No. Of course, students should take an appropriately rigorous course load, but colleges also value the investment a student makes in developing his or her own interests in ways that are fun and challenging.

One of our students enjoyed a part-time job that helped him learn how to work with demanding customers, because he wanted to explore his interest in business. Another discovered a passion for public policy by volunteering for a non-profit that delivers health care to uninsured patients. In both cases, our students bridged existing interests with new ones and had fun along the way.

This approach encourages students to take initiative and responsibility for their learning and development. Whether through creative endeavors, community service, sports, or part time work, the exploration of genuine interests cultivates skills such as leadership, time management, and perseverance. These qualities are highly valued by colleges as they seek to admit individuals who contribute positively to their campus communities; not to mention, it gave them some great material when it came time to write their essays! For more information, check out our blog about how to focus on extracurriculars that colleges want to see.

They kept their college list focused and realistic.

Creating a college list is yet another crucial step in the process, and we specialize in  helping students create best-fit college lists. This sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling college experience. At Marks Education, we guide our students who take on this process through a holistic approach, considering a wide range of factors beyond just rankings and prestige when selecting a college. 

Key considerations for a well-rounded college list include academic programs that match the student’s interests and aspirations, the availability of faculty mentorship and research opportunities, campus culture, size, location, and financial aid offerings. Successful students spend time looking into the specific resources and support systems each college provides and what extracurricular activities offered resonate with their passions. Not only does this help ensure that students are making a choice that fits with their ideal lifestyle, but this knowledge can come in handy when it comes time to write their “Why us?” college essay in the fall.

Considering your student’s learning style, our college admissions counseling team helps you choose programs that align with your preferences; whether that means thriving in large lecture halls or intimate seminar settings. We encourage our students to seek out institutions where they can not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully to the campus community through leadership, service, and collaboration. By thoughtfully evaluating these aspects, students can compile a list of colleges where they are likely to be happy, engaged, and successful, paving a way for a college experience that extends beyond the classroom.

They started writing their essays early!

Starting essay writing early in the college application process is more than just a strategic move to beat deadlines; it’s a journey of self-discovery essential to writing a meaningful essay. Beginning the critical task of starting the Common Application Personal Statement during the summer allows our students to delve deeply into their personal stories, experiences, and aspirations. This introspection not only aids in crafting more authentic and compelling essays but also plays a crucial role in helping students clarify their own understanding of who they are and what they hope to achieve as they begin this new chapter of their life. 

Moreover, an early start also provides the invaluable benefit of time for revision. Drafting essays well in advance of deadlines means students can refine their voices and polish their prose with the help of feedback from trusted advisors or mentors. This iterative process ensures that the final submissions are not just well written but resonate deeply with the students’ identities and aspirations. 

They set limits and respected them.

Each year, students’ schedules get more and more packed, and they just can’t do everything. For some, setting limits meant crafting a testing plan and sticking to it, instead of wondering if “just one more” retake would boost their scores. For others, it meant shutting off electronics 30 minutes earlier than usual – even if their homework was not absolutely perfect – to go to sleep.

The college search process forces students to ask themselves big questions about who they are and what they want. Students who invested in forward planning were better able to manage their time. They could set limits, get enough sleep, and carve out time with friends and family. And because of this, they were better able to consider and complete essay and application work thoughtfully and productively.

They formed meaningful relationships with adults.

Colleges want to admit students who are a fit for their campus and community, as well as their classrooms. Thus, articulating who you are, and what you value, becomes ever more important. A key way for students to develop this ability is by sharing their interests with adults and asking for feedback when appropriate.

One of our students found it helpful to talk to her Chemistry teacher about summer programs to confirm an interest in engineering. Our athletic recruits chatted with coaches to express their interest in being scholar-athletes, and some realized small, liberal arts colleges might be a great option. Talking with adults early and often paved the way for these students to express themselves clearly when writing application essays, talking to admissions officers, and attending alumni interviews.

The more opportunities our students seized to get to know themselves, the easier it became to prioritize their wants and needs for their college choice. Finding a best fit isn’t magical; it’s methodical, and it can be done.

Conclusion

Congratulations to our graduating seniors! It’s been wonderful to be part of your journey, and we wish you the best as you prepare for life on campus in the fall!

Whether you’re just starting to explore potential colleges or fine-tuning your list, our college admissions counseling team specializes in understanding the unique qualities of each student and matching them with institutions where they will flourish. 

Reach out to us to start a conversation about your future and how we can help you turn your college aspirations into reality. Contact us now!