Latest College Prep News & Tips

In previous years, we’ve talked to juniors about the importance of demonstrated interest. It can have a significant impact on your chances of getting into your first choice school. (Check out the link to our video about showing demonstrated interest – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82vDUYM5CIY&t=8s). One of the major components of demonstrated interest has always been campus visits. They show that you’ve been to the school and really taken a look at what it’s all about. It helps to show schools that you’re serious about them, which can give you an edge. Colleges want to admit students who are going to accept their offers. In addition, campus visits can give you a sense of what you really want in a school – make sure it’s a place where you can see yourself thriving for four years.

But with college campuses closed all around the country (and the world), what are students supposed to do? How can they both get a feel for a school they can’t visit and show the schools that they have put the time in?

Look to the Schools

Luckily, many schools have put out resources to help students. Check out an online information session, or watch a virtual campus tour. Many schools are sharing pictures and videos from campus on their websites or Facebook pages. Some have recorded faculty lectures – watch them! You can get a sense for what it would be like to sit in on a class. Want to find out what sports are like on campus? Get in touch with the coaches. Even if you aren’t a recruited athlete, talking to coaches is a great way to get information and show your interest.

See if you can find out who the admissions counselor for your area is, and email them. Let them know what you’ve done – watched a tour, downloaded their online brochures, or checked out their YouTube page.  When looking for information, the best place to start is on the college’s website. Most are being regularly updated with new material as everyone adjusts to the new normal, so check back frequently.

Additional Concerns

Something that students should keep an eye out for is information on how the school is handling standardized testing for students applying in the fall of 2021. Most of the spring testing schedules have been disrupted, and it’s unclear exactly how many chances students will have to complete their ACT or SAT testing before application deadlines roll around. There’s been mention of many schools going “test optional”, but it’s important to pay attention to the numbers. According to this article from InsideHigherEd.com, FairTest.org has indicated that 50 schools have gone test optional since January. While that number indicates a large upswing, it still doesn’t mean that all – or even most – schools will be foregoing standardized testing. There may be a dramatic difference between the types of schools that go test optional and those that don’t. 

Your admissions counselors at the schools you will be applying to are the best source of information for what their schools policies will be. Keep in mind, however, that those policies are most likely being discussed and written as we speak. One thing that’s important to keep in mind is that this is new for everyone. Recognize that people may not have all the answers right away. Remember that every interaction you have with the school is important. As frustrating as it might be to not know, keep your interactions pleasant and put your best foot forward.