| Almost as soon as high school begins students turn | | | | the stress faced by college applicants. This can also |
| their attention to the college admissions process. | | | | be a time to set milestones for the major events of |
| There are plenty of places to turn for help - from | | | | the college search. The process typically begins junior |
| counselors to older siblings and parents - but the | | | | year and will last through spring semester of senior |
| college search can be overwhelming. Taking the first | | | | year. |
| step can seem unachievable. | | | | 3. Get to know the colleges. Just because you watch |
| The following tips aren't the end all. They are only | | | | college football and know a school's mascot and fight |
| the tip of a vast iceberg. But having a good | | | | song doesn't mean the college is right for you. Your |
| overview of the process give you an idea of where | | | | comfort level with school size, location, academic |
| to start, how to plan and what steps you should | | | | programs offered and student activities offered will |
| take when. The college admissions process can only | | | | play a larger role in your college success than a |
| be navigated by planning and having clear | | | | sports team's win-loss record. |
| expectations of what's ahead. | | | | 4. Your actions now impact college later. From the |
| 1. Every college is different. No two colleges will have | | | | moment you walk step foot on the high school |
| exactly the same admissions requirements. Your high | | | | campus your college clock starts ticking. Your grades |
| school counselor can help with details, as can each | | | | in class will count towards your GPA. Explore your |
| school's Web site. Even if you have only a slight | | | | interests and passions by getting involved in activities |
| interest in a college investigate what it takes to get | | | | in and out of school. |
| in, even as a freshmen or sophomore in college. This | | | | Applying to college is a pivotal point in a young |
| can help you set appropriate academic goals. Also, | | | | person's life. Do the college search right. Start the |
| plan on applying to several colleges. | | | | college admissions process early. This will give you |
| 2. Mark your calendars. Each application will have a | | | | the most options with the least stress. Get others |
| deadline, but you will need to be aware of earlier | | | | involved to help you avoid mistakes and offer advice. |
| deadlines for the many parts involved. Mapping out | | | | And, most importantly, enjoy the ride. |
| what is needed when will save you from much of | | | | |