College applications are still being accepted across the U.S.

The end of November brought a collective sigh of relief from California high school seniors, as the CSU and UC closed application windows for Fall 2013. Hundreds of thousands of applications were sent to California public universities and now the wait begins for applicants to see who will be admitted to which schools. But just because the CSU and UC deadlines have passed, doesn’t mean seniors are out of options for college. CSU Bakersfield and Cal Maritime have extended their deadlines and UC Merced is offering an appeal to apply late.

The CSU and UC are not the only place to get a good education. Most of the private colleges and hundreds of public out-of-state colleges are still accepting applications for Fall 2013. These include, but are not limited to: University of Nevada Reno, Arizona State, University of Arizona, Oregon State and University of Oregon, University of Hawaii and many others across the U.S.  

The fastest way to find a college admission website is to use Google or a similar search engine. However, be sure you’re on the official college website that ends in “.edu” to confirm you are applying at the official website. It’s also important to confirm that you are applying for the undergraduate level of admission. Complete the on-line application before the deadline. Follow that up by submitting official transcripts and test scores. Then open the portal account on the college website for further directions or requirements.

If you elect to apply to a school who is offering an extension after the normal deadline, be advised that extended deadlines can end without notice. So do not delay if you are choosing an extended deadline option. Follow those applications up with an official transcript and be sure to request the testing agency to send your official SAT and/or ACT scores.

Students who submitted applications to colleges should expect to receive confirmation from the college that the application has been received. This is usually in the form of email. The email will contain important information such as the student’s identification number for the college. Most colleges are now providing all communication after the initial confirmation through a portal account the student must set up on the college website.

This portal account will contain critical information regarding the application status. There is usually a “to do” list for students that is updated regularly with information the college might want to verify or have the student attend do. Students who fail to follow through with the “to do” list, can have their applications cancelled, so it’s very important that students check their portal accounts – at each of the colleges where they have applied – frequently, and follow up with anything on the “to do” list. Common mistakes for follow up are failure to have official test scores sent to the college by the testing agency, submitting payment for the application or failure to submit a transcript if requested.

College admission continues to be highly competitive and all students are encouraged to have a “backup plan,” just in case they are not accepted into their first choice schools. If your backup plan includes a community college, it is important to follow all the steps for admission to your community college of choice, including assessment, counseling and orientation.

How can I get into a good college?

“How can I get into a good college?” It always makes me wonder if students think that I might recommend a “bad” college. How a student defines a “good” college, is often from the perception of the family or influential friends, and rarely on the specific post-college goals of the student. Frequently I have students aspiring to attend top tier colleges, when a small liberal arts college is a better fit for their career plans. Many times students apply to a college based on the success of the college football program, with no research on their chosen majors.


I am always willing to help students who aspire to attend a top tier school with suggestions for planning the high school career. It’s a daunting task, particularly when the preparation must begin early in high school, before most students understand the process. Schools like Stanford, Duke, Notre Dame, UCLA, Harvard, etc. could fill every seat with an AP laced transcript and an overloaded grade point average. Strong academics are a “given” expectation for a highly selective campus. High school students should enroll in the most challenging courses they can handle when planning for a top tier school. But a 4.0 grade point average won’t make you stand out when applying to a highly selective college.


“How do I stand out?” To be admitted to highly selective schools, students must be respected for more than just academics. To stand out among other highly qualified college applicants, candidates need to be respected leaders beyond their high school or home town. For most students, this isn’t easy. It will take initiative and a willingness to get outside of their comfort zones.


Seeking out leadership roles or creating them can get the attention of an admissions office, but the student should be truly interested in the organization or its cause on more than one level. Admissions officials are experts at gleaning mistruths and exaggerations regarding leadership, honors and activities. In the area of activities, it’s depth, rather than breadth that will impress. Students who are active in one or two areas at an intense level, will be more impressive than someone who claims membership in 20 clubs.


“What looks good on a college application?” Admissions officials regularly make statements like, “Find your passion – and follow it.”  I agree. Avoid activities based on what, “looks good on an application,” and instead choose your activities based on what “looks good on you.” This will give your college application depth, substance and showcase your strengths.


College admissions officials can spot a “resume’ builder” or a parent-driven application at first glance. A high school resume’ that looks too “adult” will work against you, not for you. Students often inquire about which school activities, clubs, sports, performing arts, community service or employment will impress a top tier admissions office. College admissions counselors value high school sports for leadership, teamwork and commitment. But clubs, performing arts, activities, service projects, jobs, etc. can offer the same depth of leadership and meaningful experience. All selective colleges will want to see evidence of a successful, significant, satisfying high school career on your application – not a blue print toward impressing their admissions office.

 
It is wise to begin thinking of lofty collegiate goals early in high school. But as you plan, don’t lose sight of why you are planning to go to college. A quality education is available at hundreds of colleges that do not have national rankings or NCAA Division I football programs. As selective college admission continues to increase in competition each year, it’s critical that everyone have a “back up plan” and apply to a college where they can meet their goals and are certain to be admitted. If you are one of the thousands of highly qualified students who are not admitted to your first choice, highly selective college, your academic life is not over; you can still achieve a respected undergraduate degree.


And if your heart belongs to a particular college football program, you can probably buy their sweatshirt at Target.

Even if you're not ready yet - apply now

Most high school seniors will admit they are not quite ready to head off on their own at college, just yet. But it’s time to put a college plan into action. November 30th is the University of California application deadline, and also the California State University priority admission deadline.  Students across the Golden State have just a few days left to submit their applications to both of their public education options for four year colleges.


Applications to both college systems are submitted on-line. The California State University application is filed at www.csumentor.edu a comprehensive sight that allows students as early as middle school, begin to plan for a college education at any of the 23 CSU options.  CSU Mentor allows students to apply, one school at a time, by entering their high school courses and test scores. The good news is that once a student has submitted a CSU application, when he returns to apply to a second or more, the application is already pre-populated with the information entered the first time.  CSU Mentor is also an option for having SAT scores sent by the College Board. By submitting SAT scores to CSU Mentor, all 23 CSUs receive the scores. Students may share their ACT score with all CSUs by sending the ACT score to just one CSU.


The University of California offers on-line application at www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions where with a click of a mouse, students can submit the same application to any or all of the nine undergraduate universities.   The UC application is far more comprehensive than the CSU. Like CSU Mentor, the UC application will ask students to complete their high school course history, and SAT or ACT test scores. But it will also inquire about a student’s history in high school activities, awards, recognition, volunteer work and even employment. The UC also requires two application essays, fondly referred to as “personal statements.”  The prompts are specific and students are well advised to think carefully about what they have to say to the UC within the context of the prompt. Both SAT and ACT scores are shared among the nine UC campuses by submitting them to just one campus.

The UC does not require a transcript until after graduation and they do not accept letters of recommendation. Most of the CSUs do not require a transcript as part of the application, but students should check their individual college web pages for their admission “to do list.” There are a few of the universities with in the CSU that are requesting an official transcript this year, and students need not worry that their application is “suspect” if a college asks for a one.


Private and independent colleges have a variety of application deadlines. The simplest way to determine a private college deadline is to simply “google” the college name and undergraduate admission. Applications are filed on-line and require a comprehensive application. Many private colleges offer priority admission deadlines, with later deadlines also available. The Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities has a very comprehensive website http://www.aiccu.edu/    which will assist students with more application information on dozens of private schools.


As fees have risen dramatically at our California public universities, interest in out of state colleges has also risen. Out-of-state schools will have various deadlines, requirements and some often factor the gpa differently than California systems. Deadlines range from early November to “rolling” which means right up until fall semester begins. Public universities in the Western U.S. states sometimes offer California students tuition discounts through the Western Undergraduate Exchange program (WUE) which significantly lowers the tuition for an out-of-state student. WUE discounts are usually contingent on application deadline, gpa and sometimes major. Be sure to confirm that a WUE school is “friendly” with California, as some colleges who participate in the program with other states, do not participate with California. http://www.wiche.edu/wue


Over the past 20 years, I’ve made the observation that while seniors in November are not ready to move away from home to attend college; something magical happens to them by June. Students often become more mature, focused and the idea of living independently appeals to them on many levels by spring. I strongly encourage students to submit an application now, even if they are nervous about going out in the world. There is no penalty for not accepting an offer of admission, and students who are looking at the future today with a bit of trepidation, may be thrilled to have options to take bold steps toward college by graduation.

There are No Guarantees with College Application

A common question among college-bound high school students is, "What can I do to guarantee admission to a top ranked college?" The honest answer is, "Nothing."

There are no guarantees for students hoping for admission to highly selective schools. But there are some guidelines that can enhance their applications. Each year many impacted colleges turn away more applicants than they accept, and often students who are denied acceptance, met all the admission requirements and were well-qualified.

College admission is increasingly competitive and as result, many schools, public and private, are demanding more than minimal eligibility for admission. This often confuses both students and their parents as they try to figure out what it takes to be admitted to a specific college.

There are different testing requirements for different schools, such as the SAT Reasoning, SAT subject exams or ACT with or without writing. There are different grade point average minimums for not only different universities, but sometimes for different majors within those schools. Some colleges require students to be involved in activities, show evidence of leadership and community involvement. Many applications require essays. But regardless of what questions are posed, all college applications are designed to glean information that shows a student’s potential to succeed in the college classroom. The most important factor considered is the student’s academic preparation.

The academic course requirements are the same for both the University of California and California State University. Students must take college prep courses in English (four years), math (three years, and achieve a minimum of Algebra II), social studies (two years, including U.S. history), lab science (two years), foreign language (achieving a minimum of level II), visual and performing arts (one year required) plus an additional year of an approved elective. These subject area courses are what the CSU and UC refer to as the "A through G requirements." This A through G course requirement will usually meet or exceed most private colleges and out-of-state public schools as it demonstrates a student’s ability in all academic subjects.

A good way to bolster a college application is by enrolling in a tough academic senior year. At many high schools, the senior culture allows for students to take an abbreviated schedule for 12^th grade, with a shortened day. This is the worst thing a college bound student can do if she is applying to an impacted college. Highly selective college admissions officials consider the senior year to be the best evidence of a student’s ability to do college level work. It’s not enough just to be accepted into a university, students will need to be able to thrive in the college level course work once they arrive.

College application is a daunting process that takes time, energy and planning as early as middle school. One of the most critical aspects of college admission is recognizing that being eligible for college, does not equal being admitted to universities with impacted majors or programs.

Students and parents can unravel some of the mystery by visiting a host of websites offered by various institutions. I recommend:

www.californiacolleges.edu, www.csumentor.edu, http://www.aiccu.edu/

http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/, and www.californiacollegeplanning.com .

Seniors have no time to waste for college applications

As students return to school in the late summer, it always takes awhile to get into school the routine. For seniors, there is no time to waste if they plan to apply to college. Many colleges across the nation are already accepting applications for Fall 2013.  Here in California our public universities will open application windows in October and November and most of our private schools are within that same time frame.

Nearly all college applications are handled electronically, and prospective students will find complete information on college admission websites. High school students should be sure they are reviewing “Undergraduate” admissions pages when researching admissions information, since Graduate level programs often have a totally different admission calendar than Undergraduate. It’s easy to get them mixed up! 

Deadlines are critical for college applicants. All applications must be submitted by the assigned deadline and with electronic application there is no grace period, regardless of why you missed a deadline. So while students are making the decision about where to apply, it’s prudent to confirm that the deadline for application is realistic. If students stay on top of their college application process, there is no reason that they can not submit a complete, polished application. But procrastinators will find it challenging to present a competitive application if they try to complete it two or three days before the deadline. 

California public universities (CSU and UC Systems) have a common undergraduate application deadline of November 30th each year. Private California schools have varied deadlines, (some extending into spring) but often give priority to applicants who apply early in the filing periods. This is often true of schools outside of California, so waiting until the last minute to begin a college application is never a good idea regardless of your destination. Even Sierra College has an application deadline that is fast and firm for each semester. 

Here at Rocklin High School, Mrs. Morgan, the senior counselor and I will be holding a series of college planning workshops specific to target applicants. Workshops will be held on the afternoon of Articulation Mondays, beginning at 1 p.m. Parents are welcome to attend, but the workshop is directed toward students. We will open our first workshop on September 24th with the CSU application. For a complete list, see the home page of the College & Career Center website. Students are strongly encouraged to sign up ahead of time to reserve their spot. 

College bound seniors may find it challenging that before they even begin to settle in to their final year of high school they are asked to imagine themselves as college freshmen. But to be an outstanding college applicant, that’s exactly what must happen. 

Students who expect to be carefully evaluated at competitive colleges might think of their college applications as one additional course for fall semester of senior year. There’s research involved – colleges, majors, programs; statistics – a list of the applicant’s achievements, activities and experiences; composition – college application essays and other information you must share in writing; and supportive documentation – letters of recommendation, transcripts, evidence of leadership and service. It’s sort of like practicing for your first college assignment – because it is;  and from my observation over the past 19 years at Rocklin high School, most students want to earn an A on this one! 

California Community Colleges offer great options

Students who missed college application deadlines will be happy to know that California community colleges are still accepting applications for both summer and fall. While it’s not often that I think our state legislatures have mapped out things well, I think the California community college system is one of the best deals ever designed.

California is one of the few states that mandates equal access to college for all students. This means that regardless of how you did in high school, what choices you made immediately after leaving high school or if you even went to high school, you can still attend a California community college.Please note that while access to college is mandated, community college courses are not easy.

After applying for admission to a community college, the first step is taking the assessment test. Students who are not academically ready for the rigors of college level courses, will be required to take remedial classes to bring their readiness level to the expectation of college professors. For some students this may be one or two courses. For others, it may take a semester or two.

Most of our California community colleges have application deadlines.  All of our state community colleges are all impacted, meaning there are fewer classes offered to an overcrowded applicant pool. This is why future students should follow the admission protocol well in advance of registration day. This includes on-line applying, on-site assessing, on-site counseling, on-line orientation and finally on-line class registration. These steps are outlined in detail on the C&CC website under “Sierra College Admissions,” and can be applied to any community college in our region.

A California community college offers the best of both worlds for students in a wide variety of interests. Students who wish to pursue a four year degree at the CSU, UC or any number of private colleges will find preparation at community college that provides transferring options. The UC and CSU consider an upper division transfer from a California community college to be the number one priority for admission.  Students who graduate from a CSU or UC with credits from a community college are pleased to see that their degree is the same as a student who has attended the four year school for the entire academic career.

Not everyone needs a four year degree to secure a lucrative career.  A California community college offers students seeking training for jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree, hundreds of options. Anything from radiology to candy making; or welding to nursing can be learned at a community college where certificates, licenses, or associates degrees can be earned.

Awards You Purchase

National Awards or Experiences You Purchase

Over the past month or two many of our students have been invited to become members of national award societies, or to attend various leadership conferences across the country. The invitations and “awards” look very impressive and allude to the great honor it is for the student to have been included. Prices range from $60 for a “one time membership fee,” or $500 to as much as $5000 for a conference fee that usually doesn’t include travel expenses. Some are “free” to put your name in a book, but then, when they have all your information, pressure parents to buy the book along with other memorabilia at extraordinary prices.

Parents often ask if these are legitimate awards for their students. They also want to know if we think students should attend these conferences to give them a competitive edge with college or scholarship applications. And they want to know who nominated their students in the first place.

The answers to these concerns are complex – here are Frequently Asked Questions on this topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will attending or joining this society, conference, camp, summit, etc. help my child get into college?

College admissions officials and scholarship selection committees have told us they are not impressed with awards or honors that parents purchase. Hundreds of thousands of students are nominated each year for honors, memberships, conferences and leadership training.

College and Scholarship competition is much more powerful if students have received awards that mark them above the norm in something they have actually earned, such as the Rocklin High Distinguished Community Service Award.

Paying for a conference might provide a beneficial experience, but it should not be considered an award.

This conference is at my son’s first choice college. Will it help him get accepted there?

Probably not. Beware that many summer offerings held on college campuses, actually have no affiliation with the college. Some organizations rent college facilities to hold their conferences, and loosely use the college name with promises of earned college credits or admission recognition.

Did the school send in the nomination?

Your school probably did NOT submit a nomination for your student – that’s against confidentiality policies.

How was my student nominated?

Students may have been invited or nominated simply because they registered for the SAT, ACT, applied for a scholarship, or something similar.

An issue to consider is that once you have registered with a conference, society or “award,” you can expect to receive a plethora of mailings, since these organizations often sell their mailing lists to similar vendors.

My student really wants to attend. Is there a way to check it out?

Contact the registration office for the event and ask for local references (names and phone numbers) of Rocklin students, who have attended previous conferences. See if they can get a previous camper to contact you. Find out things like: Did someone meet your student at the airport? Were the meals good? The rooms clean? Did you feel safe? How did you get back to the airport? What other costs were incurred that were not outlined in the brochure? Do you think it was worth the expense?

Should we spend the money?

I never tell parents how to spend their money. There is absolutely no way to guarantee this is a good value.

If students are ready to navigate a national airport in a strange city on their own, and will benefit from the program, make your decision to attend based on as many facts as you can gather.

What have other Rocklin High students said about these opportunities?

Over the years many Rocklin High students have attended these kinds of conferences; some of them thought it was a great experience while others thought it was a “rip off.”