CTeenConnection

My name is Adina Ichilov and I am a senior from CTeen San Antonio. Let’s face it, the college admissions process is extremely overwhelming. From the number of essays and short questions you have to write to the constant reminders you need to give your recommenders, the process is stressful. However, as I’ve moved along the process I have learned some tips that can help anyone that is starting this process. This list below helped me get through the college process so I thought I would share it with you!

1. Make a list of schools

Start off by writing down any school you would even consider: this of this like a brain dump. Once this brain dump is complete, do research and narrow down the schools based off of your criteria in a school and if you could actually see yourself attending it. Make sure the campus has an active Jewish life by checking Chabad on Campus’ website.  I am currently in the process of applying to seven schools (but I am not applying to them all at once).

2. SAT/ACT

Just start studying. I tend to procrastinate when it comes to standardized tests, but let me tell you that is a bad idea. The more you genuinely study and take time out of your busy schedule, the fewer times you have to take it. I honestly wish that I had put more effort into these tests during my junior so I would not have to take them again my senior year and worry about the stress they cause.

3. Tour schools throughout High School. Don’t be afraid to go back!

Touring the schools are the best way to truly understand if you see yourself there. I visited schools during my junior year and I plan to go back to a couple again. I believe that touring schools enable us to be more confident in our college decisions since we are able to see ourselves living on the campus.

4. Start your long essay early

Starting the long essay early on is a huge stress reliever. It allows for more time to be focused on other parts of the college application. The prompts for the common application come out in the summer, so why not start brainstorming and drafting. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends who are already in college, they might have advice that you didn’t think of!

5. Make a resume, list of activities and intended majors (or undecided) before you begin

‍I started writing and building my resume freshman year of high school. I think that my resume had a great influence on my college major. A resume is supposed to tell a story about you and your interests which helped me fill out my application quicker because I had my GPA, activities, work experience, and honors already ready to go. 

6. Do everything at your own pace

Once applications open, people either talk about or show on social media when they submitted their application. Disregard all of this. Take your time with each application and make sure it is your best work. The schools make deadlines months after the applications open for a reason, so follow the school’s deadline and not your friends.

7. Feel proud that you have finally reached this point in your life to prepare for the next big thing

Like I said above, the college application process is very overwhelming, but at the same time inspiring to be moving forward with your education. Do not forget to spend time having fun, since after all it is your senior year and you should be creating amazing memories with your best friends before you all depart for college!

All these tips may apply to you, or maybe only some do, but always remember to take a deep breath. Senior year flies by in a blink of an eye and before you know it, you are back to being a freshman, although this time in college.