HEY JUNIORS- we haven't forgotten about you!

What a hectic time of year in the world of Admissions! In addition to reading Regular Decision applications and planning open houses for accepted Early Action/Early Decision students we're also recruiting for the class of 2015! While it's easy to get wrapped up with the seniors, we have to devote a good amount of our time to shaping the class for the following admissions cycle. Case in point: two trips in the last few weeks to meet with high school juniors in two very different settings.

A few weeks ago I traveled to scenic Salisbury, CT to sit on a panel at the Salisbury School with other admissions reps from UMass Amherst, Hobart and William Smith Colleges and Trinity College. We fielded questions from their college counseling staff and then finished with Q&A from parents and students. I was also in Pittsburgh, PA two weekends ago for the Pittsburgh National College fair which is attended by thousands of students. A lot of the discussion at both events was centered around topics that juniors should start to be thinking about at this time of year. Below are 4 quick steps for those juniors that are just starting the college search process.

1. Where do I start?

This is a tough time for a lot of students and families that are trying to start the college process. My advice is to take it one step at a time so you don't get overwhelmed. You can't start worrying about your essay, recommendations and college list until you know what type of school is right for you! First step- prioritize. Make a list of the type of qualities you're looking for in a school. Start with the basics- size, location and majors offered. From there start to research schools that meet some of these criteria. You can request print materials by calling the Admissions Office or fill out a form online. A college's website may have an online viewbook as well if you would prefer to go green.

2. What's next?

Visit! While you may think you know exactly what you want, you'll never know until you visit! An admissions brochure or college website cannot take the place of an official visit to campus. This will enable you to see the surrounding area, talk with current students and learn some information that you may not have come across in your research. This spring is a great time to start visiting colleges since the students are on campus. While it's sometimes more convenient to visit during the summer, you will really miss out seeing the majority of the students. Many schools have extra group information sessions and tours during your school vacation week so make sure to check out their website or call to make an appointment.


3. Course Selection

This is very important. The courses you take in your senior year can really make the difference between and accept, waitlist or denial letter. I am always impressed with students that are taking all academic subjects in their senior year and challenging themselves with honors and AP courses. Yes, it's easy to float by on electives and "fluff" courses, but the work you do as a senior is the best prediction we have of your success in college. Start thinking about your senior schedule now and how you can challenge yourself and impress colleges with your drive and motivation.

4. RELAX!

You still have plenty of time! Take this spring to visit campuses and really enjoy the college search process. I always tell families that this doesn't have to be stressful- you can look at is as an adventure. My Mom and I were quite the college search nerds back in the day and we used your various roadtrips as good mother-daughter bonding time. At this point visit schools, start thinking of potentially teachers to ask a recommendation from and brainstorm a few topics that may work for your essay....and of course continue to do well in school!

Looking to connect with Stonehill this spring? Check out our visit calendar to see what we offer on campus or look for us "on the road" as we travel to various high schools and college fairs all over the nation.