College Application Tips

College application essays, especially supplementals, should vividly reflect self-knowledge to ensure you find a school that is the right fit for you. Colleges look for authenticity and self-awareness in essays.
Consider factors beyond rankings and program quality. The goal is to find an environment where you can thrive, not just survive. A high-ranking school might not always be the best place for every student.

While adaptability is a universally valuable trait, the size and overall environment of a school can significantly impact a student's experience. Some environments are inherently more challenging for certain individuals.
Personal anecdotes can effectively highlight why considering school size is crucial, especially when previous educational experiences differ greatly.
Example: Consider students who transfer from a university like Loyola due to its large size, especially if they are accustomed to smaller class sizes from their high school. This adjustment can be overwhelming for some.
Truly understand the kind of environment where you are most likely to thrive. Identify your "must-haves" when it comes to choosing a school. These could range from academic resources to social support systems.

Identify non-negotiable preferences early in the application process and discuss these with your college counselor. This ensures that you are applying to schools that align with your fundamental needs and interests.
Examples: Proximity to specific geographical features like water bodies or mountains for recreational activities such as surfing, fishing, or snowboarding. If these activities are integral to your lifestyle, consider schools in suitable locations.
Clearly define what "near" means to you in concrete terms of distance. Is it a drive of a couple of hours, or does it need to be closer for you to engage in these activities regularly?

Location: Give comprehensive consideration to location, including how straightforward it is to travel to and from the university.
Some universities, while academically outstanding, can be logistically challenging due to remote locations and complex travel arrangements. This can affect your ability to visit home or have family visit you.
Campus Type: Consider campus type (urban, suburban, rural) and how it aligns with your academic major and personal preferences. Certain majors might benefit from being in specific types of environments (e.g., a film major in an urban setting).
Academics: Thoroughly explore accelerated programs (3+2 or 3+3 programs), which allow you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in an expedited timeframe.
- These programs not only shorten the duration of study but can also guarantee admission to the graduate program, providing a more secure academic pathway.
- Example: A student might combine a bachelor's degree in humanities with a master's degree in a technical field, such as engineering, opening up diverse career opportunities.
- In many cases, students in these accelerated programs bypass the often stressful GMAT and graduate school application process, making the transition smoother.

Diligently use all available resources to thoroughly research universities and pinpoint the components that are most important to you in a college experience. Showing that you've done your homework demonstrates genuine interest.
Utilize resources, such as the provided sheets and online databases, to effectively prepare for supplemental essays. Tailor your responses to reflect your unique fit with each institution.

Sports: Deliberate on a school's sports presence, including the prominence of Division One sports, even if you don't intend to participate actively. A strong sports culture often enhances community and alumni engagement.
Club Sports: Consider club sports as a viable alternative to Division One or Three sports, in addition to traditional intramural sports. These offer a blend of competition and community.
- Club sports typically involve regular practice, travel for competitions, regional play, and the potential to compete in national championships, providing a comprehensive athletic experience.
- Example: Alumni who continue to play club soccer at universities like Fordham, often achieving significant success, such as winning their division and advancing to national championships, show the lasting impact of club sports.
Greek Life: Understand the impact of Greek Life on social life and housing options at different schools. Its importance can vary significantly, influencing your social experience.