| Getting into college is a team effort. You are the | | | | They should bring: Support. The college admissions |
| captain of your college search team, but you will | | | | process is stressful. Lean on your friends for support, |
| need motivated teammates who can help make your | | | | understanding and stress relief because they're |
| college application shine. Like any ace squadron, your | | | | probably going through the same process. They can |
| team needs members with different skills. Your team | | | | help you check applications and essays for errors, or |
| should include: | | | | just be there for a coffee run when you get |
| Counselors | | | | bleary-eyed from writing your essays. They should |
| They should bring: College information. Counselors | | | | avoid: Running your college search. Be cautious of |
| understand the college admissions process. They | | | | turning too much of your search over to friends. The |
| have insider information and are great at opening | | | | best college for your best friend may not be a good |
| your eyes to college possibilities. Pick their brains | | | | fit for you. Your college search is all about you. |
| about potential schools and if you might be a good | | | | References |
| fit. Nobody knows more than your counselor. | | | | They should bring: The ability to speak positively |
| Family members | | | | about you, your accomplishments, your passions and |
| They should bring: Support and guidance. Your | | | | potential. People who know you well are your best |
| parents will be great at helping you complete your | | | | sources for references. Teachers are a great source |
| applications, making sure you hit deadlines and | | | | for references and in fact most colleges require at |
| offering the encouragement you need during this | | | | least one teacher reference. Do you have a class |
| stressful time. They should also support you in your | | | | you like or a teacher that is particularly engaging? A |
| college decision. | | | | good relationship with a teacher can lead to a good |
| They should avoid: Running your college search. The | | | | recommendation. Other adults to consider would |
| right school for mom and dad may not be the right | | | | include employers, church leaders, or someone you |
| place for you. Also, your parents should not be | | | | worked with on a volunteer project. They should be |
| attending your college interview, calling professors or | | | | willing to contact a potential college on your behalf. |
| writing your essays. These actions could hurt your | | | | Choosing the proper people for your references can |
| chances of being admitted. | | | | help open college doors for you. |
| Friends | | | | |