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What steps can I take to make sure I get into my dream college?

I am a junior at Hillcrest High School. I want to get into college preferably a university like, Ohio State, Mizzou, Memphis, or an HBCU. I am from Memphis, TN. #high-school #college

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Kailey’s Answer

Hi there!
While I definitely agree with all of the answers about making sure that you have the necessary requirements, I would also advise you to make sure that you spend time on your written application! Put care into your essays so that colleges can get a good view of you beyond your academics. Most importantly, however, is to not focus on just the college itself and the name! Remember that you will end up where you need to end up – in the end, colleges are about fit. You will find yourself at a university that is right for you.
Thank you comment icon I agree with what Kailey said! Sam Li
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Lea Ann’s Answer

First, make sure you have taken all the classes needed in high school that your dream colleges require. Second, take the college tests either SAT, ACT or both. You should have taken a practice exam probably at your high school. Then you can take on your own as many times as you would like. Third, as a junior you should be touring these colleges either in person or virtually on their websites. Last but not least, you will need to apply as soon as the application period opens up; more than likely in the fall of your senior year. Good Luck!!!
Thank you comment icon Thank You! Ms.Lea Ann Montreal
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Yasemin’s Answer

Hi Montreal! Junior year is just the perfect time to start thinking about college. First I would definitely evaluate your academics, such as GPA and SAT/ACT scores; some universities aren't requiring admissions test anymore but regardless taking the exam and doing well especially can be an extra boost to make you a competitive applicant. I would recommend to check with each university/college you are interested in and see what is required first; what is their GPA/SAT scores, acceptance rate, mission statement and things they favor or that stand out like community service. Definitely volunteer though nonetheless because this will help make you a more well rounded applicant and stand out as well by being able to contribute your time to others and make a difference in their lives. It is a bit difficult now to partake in volunteering with COVID but if there are clubs and activities in your school that you can do that is great and it will show you to be an active student than only in your academics. There are also volunteering opportunities online as well, like pointsoflight.org, volunteer match.org or do something.org I would recommend to check them out and see if you find something you like. I would also recommend to have start picking out teachers/coaches/professionals who can write a recommendation letter for you (check the colleges and see what kind of letters they prefer) , it should definitely be individuals that an speak well on your behalf and have gotten to know you. You usually ask them about 2 months before applying to college in order to give them time to write a nice letter but it is good to start making a list. I would also start formulating a personal statement because you will be revising it many times for college, start thinking about what you want to write about , maybe an obstacle you overcame, maybe a passion you discovered, something that is you! Keep in touch with your guidance counselor and make sure you begin a plan as to when to take the SAT/ACT, apply, and get transcripts in order; most guidance counselors will have helpful information so definitely keep in touch!

I wish you the best future undergrad!

Yasemin recommends the following next steps:

Check out pointsoflight.org/volunteer match.org /do something.org
Start planning personal statement/list for recommendation letters
Check the requirements for each college you are interested in
Keep a planner/calendar to make a list to check off what is to be done
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Ashish’s Answer

Be yourself on your application! The application and acceptance process can seem super arbitrary and frustrating so the best you can do is be yourself and make the most of the opportunities before you. Obviously study hard, engage in extra-curriculars, ace your exams, and write a great app. But sometimes that isn't enough and you just have to be confident in yourself and your ability to succeed at whatever university you choose to attend.
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Jen’s Answer

Hi there - In addition to grades and ACT/SAT scores, college want to see that you are a well-rounded student. Are there activities or sports that you participate in? Those are great things to have on your college resume, even if they aren't directly associated with your high school. Do you have a part-time job, or do you volunteer? Volunteer service is a great thing to have on your college resume. It's not too late to start! If there's an organization you're interested in, contact them to see if they have any volunteer opportunities. Colleges like to see students who give back to their communities. Good luck!
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Sarah’s Answer

Hi! There are a lot of factors that go into college admissions/decisions. Probably the most standard are the ACT/SAT, your high school GPA, and any other stats your target school requires of you. However, at my least from my point of view, the thing that differentiates you the most is your unique experiences. So, depending on what you are interested in (major wise), how have you pursued different experiences that relate to that interest throughout your life (i.e. you are interested in business, so you volunteer at a food bank to learn more about the operations). Additionally, making sure you go the extra mile when researching that particular college. This can be quite difficult, but really trying learn how this college could provide you an unique experience (what are clubs you would be interested in joining, is the location really important for your future career, have you talked to a student from there and loved what they told you?).

Bringing this altogether, make sure to
1. invest time in prep for SAT/ACT, your GPA (and other relevant stats)
2. pursue opportunities that could differentiate your application (volunteer/tutor/internship)
3. try to define your interests (potential major) and find which colleges best fit your interests
4. when applying, be very specific and also relate your essays to the bigger picture (long-term goals and/or important lessons you've learned and how this motivates your interests).

Lastly, good luck!!
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Sunny’s Answer

Hi Montreal,

I would like to recommend you do research on the colleges that you want to attend. Also, it is better to search for a specific major, since each major has different requirements when it comes to application. For example, some majors would require minimum math score or essays and you want to be prepared for those requirements beforehand. It might be helpful to search for acceptable SAT/ACT scores to see what score you need to target to be safely accepted by the college. High school transcripts are also important, so you might want to keep your grades above average to show that you are a diligent student.

Good luck on your future!
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