Surviving the College Admission Process New Haven CT

Surviving the College Admission Process

By Howard and Matthew Greene

Throughout high school, the college admission process gets more and more intense. Seniors are writing applications, finalizing college lists, retaking standardized tests, and generally worrying about whether and where they'll get in. Juniors are heading into the PSAT, first college visits, and what is made out to be the hardest year of their academic lives. How do you maintain your sanity, put the process into perspective, and find your path?

Do what's right for you
First of all, remember that you are in control. The college admission process should be about finding schools that fit you well and then doing your best to get in. Many people will tell you what is right for you and what you need to do to get into selective schools. Some of their advice is probably on target, so don't dismiss it outright. You have a lot to learn about new areas of study, new choices, and most likely the first major decision affecting your long-term independence which you have had to make. People who know you well — friends, parents, teachers, advisors — will likely have valuable input.

Nevertheless, you should be in the driver's seat as you make decisions about classes, standardized tests, and colleges. If you succeed, you can take credit for your accomplishments. If you fail or choose unwisely, then you have only one person to blame. We find that students who develop control.

Author: Amy Ambler

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