It Depends: a college counseling series

Question: What is involved in the financial aid process for prospective college students? 

The financial aid process for prospective college students involves several steps to determine the amount of financial assistance they may receive to help cover the costs of their education. Here's an overview of the typical financial aid process: 

1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The FAFSA is a form used to apply for federal financial aid. It collects information about your family's income, assets, and other factors that determine your eligibility for need-based aid. The form is available online, and you'll need to submit it each year you're seeking financial aid. 

This is standard.  Good point.  I will add that in order to complete the FAFSA, both parent and student will need to create FSA ID.  To start use www.studentaid.gov.   

2. Gather Required Documents: Before completing the FAFSA, gather necessary documents such as your Social Security number, driver's license, federal tax returns (including your parents' if you're a dependent student), W-2 forms, bank statements, and records of untaxed income. These documents will help you accurately fill out the FAFSA. 

This is worded like it’s for the students.  This is really the job of the parent.  Given the FAFSA data retrieval tool, the process is much easier than years ago.  If you file a standard tax return the data retrieval tool will simply use your social security number to pull all relevant information from the IRS.  If you are a business owner and filing taxes for the business along with your personal, it may be better to fill in the information manually.   

3. Submit the FAFSA: Fill out the FAFSA accurately and submit it online. The FAFSA opens on October 1 each year, and it's recommended to complete it as soon as possible to meet priority deadlines for financial aid consideration. 

NOT THIS YEAR!  Because of the changes to the FAFSA, the government has announced that those applying for aid in the 2024-2025 school year, will not have access to the FAFSA until December. 

One thing that is glaringly missing from this response from ChatGPT is the possibility of required CSS Profile.  This is a financial profile from CollegeBoard and some private institutions will use that in conjunction with the FAFSA.  The CSS Profile will go live October 1st this year.  Because of the shift in the FAFSA timeline, schools utilizing the CSS Profile will likely strongly encourage that prospective families fill that out early so they can begin producing estimated financial aid packages while they wait for FAFSA data. 

4. Receive the Student Aid Report (SAR): After submitting the FAFSA, you'll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) via email or mail. The SAR summarizes the information you provided on the FAFSA and indicates your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is used to determine your eligibility for need-based aid. 

This is OUTDATED information.  Now what will be shown is a measure called the Student Aid Index (SAI), which is what is used to determine a student’s ability to pay for college and the amount of financial aid they receive.  

5. Review Financial Aid Packages: Once you've been accepted to colleges, they will send you a financial aid package outlining the types and amounts of aid they're offering. This may include grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans. Review the packages carefully, comparing the offers from different colleges. 

This is great advice.  I will add that there are some great resources to review and compare.  My personal favorite tool is the Award Letter Comparison Tool from College Covered.  It can be found at: https://www.collegecovered.com/award-letter-tool/. 

6. Apply for Additional Scholarships: Research and apply for additional scholarships from external sources, such as private organizations, community foundations, and professional associations. These scholarships can supplement your financial aid package and help reduce the overall cost of college. 

Always good advice.  This should be done AFTER you’ve finished all your applications.  The first place I will recommend that students begin is www.goingmerry.com.  There are many additional, but that is a great place to begin. 

7. Make an Informed Decision: Consider the financial aid packages, including any scholarships or grants, along with the overall cost of attending each college. Assess the affordability and evaluate the potential need to take out loans. Compare the net costs and weigh them against your financial circumstances and the value of the education you'll receive. 

Yes, good advice.  I will only add the additional consideration of which schools will accept your AP scores.  This can be a considerable savings if a school will accept the credits for AP exams you’ve taken in high school. 

8. Accept or Decline Financial Aid: Once you've made a decision about the college you'll attend, accept or decline the financial aid offered by the college. Follow the instructions provided by the college's financial aid office to confirm your acceptance and secure your aid. 

Remember that May 1 is the decision deadline for most decisions.  However… wait for it… it depends whether you applied through a binding Early Decision application.  Sometimes those are earlier deadlines to accept offers, but that is rare. 

9. Stay Informed and Renew Aid Annually: Understand the requirements to maintain your financial aid eligibility, such as maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Each year, you'll need to complete the FAFSA and renew your financial aid by the specified deadlines to continue receiving aid throughout your college education. 

This always a good reminder.  You’re going to file the FAFSA each year in college. 

It's important to note that the financial aid process can vary depending on the country and specific college or university. Be sure to check the financial aid requirements and procedures of the colleges you're applying to and consult with their financial aid offices for personalized guidance. 

It never gets old how even ChatGPT is acknowledging that this process has so many nuances. 

Question: Why should I NOT use Chat GPT for my college essay? 

While Chat GPT can provide assistance and generate text on various topics, it is not advisable to rely on it for your college essay. Here are a few reasons why: 

1. Lack of human expertise: Chat GPT is a language model trained on a wide range of internet sources, but it does not possess real-world experience or deep expertise in specific academic subjects. When writing a college essay, it's crucial to demonstrate your own understanding of the topic and engage with scholarly resources. 

Well, yeah… it isn’t you.  You’ll get a bunch of nice words, but there’s no actual connection to your life and experience.  Chat GPT won’t be able to provide examples of what actually happened in your life. 
 

2. Plagiarism concerns: Submitting an essay generated with the help of Chat GPT without proper attribution or without substantial original input could be considered plagiarism. Educational institutions have strict policies against plagiarism, and it can have severe consequences for your academic standing. 

It’s never a good look to plagiarize.  It’s never a good look to just use Chat GPT and try to pass it off as your own.  

From an admissions perspective, imagine the rep’s reaction, “You couldn’t even put forth the effort to write your own essay for the application.  Is that who we’d want at our college?  We couldn’t even trust you in your application to be honest. Why would we accept you?” 

Probably a situation where the risk isn’t worth it. 
 

3. Inconsistency and unreliable information: While Chat GPT can produce coherent and relevant responses, it is also prone to errors and inconsistencies. It may generate incorrect information or misleading arguments, which can adversely impact the quality and accuracy of your essay. 

It’s not your writing, so the chances that Chat GPT lays out some inconsistencies are pretty good.   

4. Missed opportunity for personal growth: Writing a college essay is an opportunity for personal expression, critical thinking, and development of your own voice. By relying solely on Chat GPT, you miss out on the chance to strengthen your writing skills, showcase your unique perspectives, and demonstrate your intellectual growth to the admissions committee. 

It’s worth it to go through this process.  You learn a lot about yourself and the opportunity to reflect and consider your outlook is beneficial to your growth as a student. I really like this one. 

5. Adherence to guidelines and expectations: College essay prompts often come with specific guidelines and expectations. Chat GPT may not fully comprehend the nuances of these requirements, leading to essays that do not meet the criteria set by the institution. It is essential to tailor your essay to the prompt and adhere to any specific guidelines provided. 

This is especially true for the supplemental essays. 

Instead of relying on Chat GPT for your college essay, consider using it as a tool for brainstorming ideas, gathering general information, or seeking inspiration. It's always best to personally engage with the writing process, conduct thorough research, and seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or college counselors to produce an authentic and compelling essay. 

Blah blah blah.  Nah… again, Chat GPT isn’t helpful for brainstorming… it doesn’t know you!  Gathering information isn’t helpful because you’re the expert on yourself.  Seeking inspiration?  If you’re going to Chat GPT for inspiration, we need to talk about the people you’re surrounding yourself with because if a robot is more inspirational, that’s a problem.  I think Chat GPT was just trying to end this response on a high note and promote itself.  

Question: What advice do you have for writing my college essay?

Writing your college essay can be a significant and personal part of your college application. Here are some tips to help you with the process: 

Chat GPT Point 1: Start early: Give yourself ample time to brainstorm, write, revise, and edit your essay. Starting early allows you to explore different ideas and have sufficient time for multiple drafts. 

This isn’t helpful.  What does “Start early” mean?  The truth is, you should start thinking of ideas in your junior year.  Outline some options if you can.  Going into the summer between junior and senior year is a great time to draft an essay.  That gives you something to start with as you begin your senior year. 

This is NOT something you need to start earlier than junior year.  You’re going to be a different person between your sophomore year and senior year.  

Chat GPT Point 2: Understand the prompt: Carefully read and understand the essay prompt or question provided by the college. Make sure you comprehend what the prompt is asking you to address or discuss. If there are multiple parts to the prompt, ensure that you address each component. 

Umm… this again is kind of a lame answer.  The prompts for the Common App essay are so broad!  You could literally write about anything!  The last prompt is “Share an essay on any topic of your choice.”  The point is, you’re the unquestionable world greatest expert on one thing: yourself.  You know yourself better than anyone and any college.  That’s what the essay is about!  

Chat GPT Point 3: Brainstorm ideas: Take some time to brainstorm potential topics and ideas. Reflect on your experiences, values, challenges, accomplishments, or significant moments that have shaped you. Consider selecting a topic that is meaningful to you and allows you to showcase your personality, growth, or unique perspective. 

YES!  Brainstorm a bunch of topics that you may discuss.  Talk to your college counselor about your ideas and get an objective perspective.  There are some areas that we very strongly advise students to avoid, such as athletes writing about their sport or fine arts majors writing about their instrument/art - this doesn’t add depth to the application.  Avoid writing about the amazing qualities of your grandmother.  I’m sure she is an amazing woman, but she isn’t applying to the college.  This is a chance for you to express your lessons, goals, grit, and outlook. 

Chat GPT Point 4: Tell a compelling story: Craft your essay in a narrative format that engages the reader. Focus on telling a story that illustrates your experiences or conveys a particular message. Use descriptive language and vivid details to make your essay more engaging and memorable. 

Nobody wants to read a list of accomplishments.  There’s a place for that and you can even attach a resume to your application.  The essay is a chance for you to tell the story behind your success and challenges.  It also makes it more fun to read.  Share a story that shows examples.  That’s always going to be more interesting.   

Chat GPT Point 5: Be authentic and genuine: Be true to yourself and write in your own voice. Admissions officers want to get to know you through your essay, so avoid using clichés or writing what you think they want to hear. Instead, be honest, personal, and showcase your individuality. 

Don’t go to the thesaurus.  The person reading your essay is likely going to be a young admissions representative that is in their twenties.  This is not a tenured English professor.  This is an opportunity to add some soul/life to the application.  AUTHENTICITY IS EVERYTHING!  Don’t write what you think they want to hear.  You will be applying to more than one college so that’s not possible.  Be yourself and share what will add to your application. 

Chat GPT Point 6: Show, don't just tell: Instead of simply listing your achievements or qualities, provide specific examples and anecdotes that demonstrate those qualities. Use storytelling techniques to make your essay vivid and show how you have applied your skills or overcome challenges. 

This is what we talked about in number 4.  Not sure why GPT needed to repeat itself… 

Chat GPT Point 7: Focus on one main idea: Instead of trying to cover too many topics or ideas, focus on one central theme or message. This will allow for a more focused and coherent essay that effectively communicates your point. 

This isn’t clear.  Do I focus on one idea or a theme or a message?  Are those the same thing?  You need a central concept.  That’s it.  You’re going to talk about several things in your essay, but it needs to be connected.  That’s why it’s important to have a central concept.   

Chat GPT Point 8: Structure your essay effectively: Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Your introduction should grab the reader's attention, the body paragraphs should develop your ideas, and the conclusion should provide a sense of closure or reflection. 

Ugh.. the dreaded first hook.  There are books written about how the first sentence is the most important.  There are articles talking about it.  It’s a great concept to sell more books: Stir up a bunch of fear and anxiety and convince people that if the first sentence isn’t great, colleges will not read the rest, but if you buy this book or this program, we’ll teach you how to do it the right way. 

That’s just not the case though.  Make sure the first sentence is clear, but not cliché.  That’s it.   

“It was a cold and rainy night when I heard a knock at the door.”  No thanks. Don’t think the weather is that important and you’re trying to sound like you’re writing a Goosebumps book.  Get into it and let them get to know you. 

Chat GPT Point 9: Revise and edit: Review your essay multiple times for clarity, coherence, grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, counselors, or trusted individuals who can provide constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. 

Duh… Yes you should edit. First, talk to your college counselor because it’s important that your essay add value to your application.  We talk a lot about adding depth to your application.  It’s important that the content/concept does that.  Then go to anyone you trust to go over it and make sure it’s a clear message.  

Chat GPT Point 10: Be mindful of word limits: Pay attention to any specified word or character limits for the essay. Adhere to these limits and ensure that your essay is concise and focused within the given parameters. 

Yeah. Word limits exist. Common App is 650.  UC insight questions are 350.  One common mistake that students make is thinking you need a title for your essay.  You don’t.  You don’t need your name.  Just the essay.  Some supplemental essays will have character limits.  Don’t think you need to get right to the limit.  Express your message.  You know… it depends. If you can do that with 550 words rather than 650, okay.  Don’t go back and try to fill in a bunch of words to get right to the limit.  Admission reps are not counting your words.   

Chat GPT Point 11: Proofread and finalize: Before submitting your essay, carefully proofread it one last time to catch any remaining errors or inconsistencies. Make sure your essay is well-polished and reflects your best writing. 

Again, this is repetitive.  How is revise and edit different than proofread and finalize?  Here’s my last tip on the essay:  Read it out loud to your mirror. 

Remember, your college essay is an opportunity for admissions officers to get a sense of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Use it as a platform to showcase your personality, passions, and strengths. Be genuine, thoughtful, and reflective in your writing. 

This is good.  The essay is you.  Don’t try to be something you’re not.  Don’t try to fit into a mold.  Share what’s important to you and provides context to your application. 

Parents and families, this post is for you.  

Question: What should parents do to help in the college application process? 

Parents can play a supportive role in helping their children navigate the college application process. Here are some ways parents can assist: 

ChatGPT Point 1: Start early: Encourage your child to start thinking about college early in their high school years. Discuss their interests, goals, and potential career paths. This will help them make informed decisions and be better prepared when the time comes to apply. 

Before we say, “start early,” the first thing to think about is the tone of these conversations.  As parents we want what’s best for our child.  We want them to have amazing options and opportunities.  We want them to have direction and drive.  The challenge in this question is really, how early can I start talking about all the opportunities in college? I talk to my 8-year-old about college.  It is never about a college in particular, but more of a discussion about what she would want in a college. It’s a very similar conversation to the proverbial “what do you want to be when you grow up” question.  I never want my child to feel like I’m fishing for answers.  I want her to be comfortable talking about colleges.  Earlier the better… as long as it’s light-hearted and focused on the opportunities.  For students in high school the conversation becomes slightly more specific.  Focus on location, possibilities for majors (without asking them to decide), and even cost.  We’ll discuss cost again with number 6. 
 

ChatGPT Point 2: Research colleges together: Explore different colleges and universities together. Discuss the various factors that matter to your child, such as academic programs, campus culture, location, size, and financial considerations. Encourage them to create a list of potential schools that align with their interests and goals. 

Drive through a college… any college.  Keep everything positive.  Go to the nearest college and just ask, “What do you like about this one?”  If they’re not interested in doing it, then let it go for now.  It’s not always necessary to even get out of the car.  Just drive through.  This keeps the conversation going and it doesn’t take too much time. 
 

ChatGPT Point 3: Understand admission requirements: Familiarize yourself with the admission requirements of the colleges your child is interested in. Help them stay on track with required courses, standardized tests (SAT, ACT), application deadlines, and any additional materials needed, such as essays or recommendation letters. 

This is vitally important for many families.  Having Scoir helps tremendously in helping to keep our students organized with deadlines - and parents can have their own accounts!  Required courses are also simple to keep track of at a school like Perkiomen.  SATs and ACTs are much less crucial than they were even five years ago.  Recommendation letters that students request are handled by the College Counseling Office.  Keeping the conversation going about the applications is great, try asking, “What’s next in your application process.  Anything you need help with?” 

ChatGPT Point 4: Provide guidance and support: Offer guidance and support throughout the application process. Help your child create a timeline to stay organized and meet deadlines. Assist them in gathering necessary documents, proofreading essays, and reviewing applications for errors or omissions. 

Honestly… this seems like too much to ask of a parent.  A parent’s job is to be the unconditional support.  Too often in this process, parents are forced into the position of authoritarian drill sergeant.  If at a school like Perkiomen, you can simply ask your child, “What does your counselor want you to be working on?”  That’s a much better question because now the student doesn’t feel like they are working for the parent.  Instead, they feel like their parent is in their corner. Proofreading essays is fine but understand there will be essays that students don’t feel comfortable sharing with a parent and that’s okay.  As long as they are going to someone for an objective perspective.  In our College Counseling Office, we have many discussions about the pitfalls to avoid and the perspective to take with the essays. 

ChatGPT Point 5: Encourage self-reflection and authenticity: Encourage your child to reflect on their experiences, achievements, and personal growth. Help them showcase their unique qualities and passions in their application materials. Emphasize the importance of being authentic and true to themselves in their essays and interviews. 

If the school doesn’t think your child's authentic self is a right fit, then it isn’t the place for your child.  Authenticity is always the best policy.  Encourage your child to present their best, truest self and then choose the college that provides the best environment for them. 
 

ChatGPT Point 6: Assist with financial considerations: Discuss the financial aspect of college with your child. Help them explore scholarship opportunities, financial aid options, and the implications of college costs. Assist in filling out financial aid forms, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

Parents, have the conversation about what you’re planning on contributing to your child’s education.  Having that conversation earlier in the process (say early junior year) is much, much better than waiting until after they get financial aid award letters.  Giving that information to students earlier in the process enables them to look at the options of colleges from a more objective perspective.  If cost is not a factor, sharing that is also helpful. 

FAFSA is so important.  Fill it out.  Even if parents believe they will not qualify for financial aid, fill it out.  Some colleges will only award merit aid to students that have submitted the FAFSA.  It doesn’t hurt. 

ChatGPT Point 7: Support campus visits and interviews: Accompany your child on college visits if possible. These visits provide an opportunity to explore the campus, meet faculty and students, and get a feel for the environment. Additionally, assist with scheduling and preparing for college interviews, if applicable. 

Okay… blunt talk.  Admissions reps do NOT want to hear from parents.  They want to hear from the students.  You will see it on your visits.  You will see parents that obviously dragged their child to the college for a visit.  The parent is the one asking questions in the information session.  It isn’t a good thing.  Assisting in getting to the colleges and setting up tours is great, but if you need to call the admissions office, have the student make the call. 
 

ChatGPT Point 8: Be a sounding board: Listen to your child's concerns, fears, and aspirations regarding the college application process. Provide emotional support and reassurance throughout the ups and downs. Remind them that their worth is not solely determined by college admissions outcomes. 

YES!  I love this!  "Colleges are not a prize to be won, but a match to be made!”  It seems obvious when someone says to tell your child that you’re proud of them.  In this process, it’s worth more than gold.  Knowing that they can vent to you is great.  As parents you also have dedicated college counselors to help in this process. 

One topic that’s tough to navigate is when children start comparing themselves to their classmates.  I was one of them.  My high school roommate was a true genius.  He scored a perfect score on the SAT his first time taking it.  He became a Rhodes Scholar and is now a professor at Oxford.  Even as a teenager, he was on another level.  I found myself comparing my process to his, but I had different priorities.  I wanted to find a school with a Division III football program close enough so my dad could see all my games.  I wanted a school with a nice dining hall and a strong Economics or Finance program.  The problem was that I was comparing myself to my roommate.  What I needed to hear from my parents is, “That’s great for him, but his process is not your process. You focus on your process.”  It’s important to keep our students focused on the right perspective. 

ChatGPT Point 9: Encourage independence and responsibility: While offering support, encourage your child to take ownership of the college application process. Allow them to make decisions, take initiative, and learn from the experience. This will help foster independence and readiness for college life. 

“This is your process, but I’m here to help.  Tell me what I can do.”  I heard a parent say this to their child in a meeting and I almost fell out of my seat.  It encapsulated everything that the child needed to hear.  It was his process, but he had support.  He was the driver, but he had a team.  That can go a long way! 
 

Remember that every student's journey is unique, and it's important to strike a balance between offering support and allowing your child to take the lead. Stay involved, but also empower them to make decisions and take responsibility for their own college applications. 

It depends!!! Even ChatGPT is acknowledging the nuances.  This process can be very different for so many reasons.  Lines of communication are so important.  Keep the conversations positive, focused on possibilities and remind the students that they are not being judged in this process.  They are being matched. 

Students, this set is for you.   

Question: What should I do over the summer to prepare for my college search and application process? 
 

ChatGPT Point 1 - Reflect on your goals and interests: Take some time to reflect on your academic and personal goals, as well as your interests and passions. Consider what you are looking for in a college experience and what factors are important to you, such as location, size, majors offered, extracurricular activities, etc. This self-reflection will help guide your college search. 

Reflection is always beneficial, not just as you go through this process.  Considering what you’re looking for in a college is fantastic! Start with the positives and add in some things that you’re looking to avoid as well.  Also think about the priorities of these factors.  If finances or location is the number one factor, that’s important to know early on.  However, if you’re already set on your intended major, then ensuring that the college has your major is vital.  If you’re looking to play sports at the next level, the colleges on your list need to have that sport.  So, for this process it depends on what your priorities are.  Taking some time over the summer to evaluate that can be hugely beneficial as you enter your senior year. 

ChatGPT Point 2 - Research colleges and create a list: Start researching colleges and universities that align with your interests and goals. Explore their websites, read about academic programs, campus life, and admission requirements. Make a list of colleges that you find appealing and match your criteria. 

This is kind of a bland answer.  Of course, research.  But what does that really mean?  Do I have to stay in front of my screen all summer?  Please, no!  If you have done some reflecting and have a lot of uncertainty about what you’re looking for in a college, go tour the closest college to you.  It doesn’t mean you have to attend that college.  You need to find some perspective.  You need to have a reference.  It’s more than likely that the college will be too close to home for many of our students.  That’s okay.  Go and see what that college has to offer so you know what you’re looking for in the next college.  Start close and have fun with it!  If you’re traveling with your family, drive through a local college and just take in the view of the campus. That perspective will help give you more of an understanding of what you want and don’t want in a college. 

ChatGPT Point 3 - Attend virtual college fairs, and information sessions: Many colleges and universities offer virtual events and information sessions during the summer. Attend these sessions to learn more about the institutions you are interested in, ask questions, and gain insights from admissions representatives. 

Not bad advice, but again, what does that mean?  Why do a virtual event?  All colleges will track what you do through the process.  If you’re on campus and take a tour with admissions, they know.  If you open an email from the college, they know you opened it.  If a college is holding an information session, attend it.  In-person events are great, but if you’re looking at some colleges further away, then virtual is a great option.  If it’s via Zoom, turn your camera on, look presentable and be engaged.  
 

ChatGPT Point 4 - Plan campus visits (if possible): If feasible, plan visits to colleges you are seriously considering. Campus visits provide an opportunity to experience the atmosphere, tour the facilities, and interact with current students. Check college websites for visit options and safety guidelines. 

This falls under the same idea as researching.  No need to repeat.  I will add that summertime visits can be tough.  I have had students return from a college visit and say, “the campus seemed too quiet.”  That’s normal, especially since the vast majority of the students are not on campus, but it may not be reflective of the reality.  Look for construction while on campus.  That’s a good sign that the college has the resources to continue growing. 

ChatGPT Point 5 - Prepare for standardized tests (if necessary): If you plan to take the SAT or ACT, use the summer to prepare for these exams. Review test content, practice sample questions, and consider enrolling in test preparation courses or utilizing online resources. 

IT DEPENDS.  Testing in this process has changed a lot, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic; however, even prior to COVID, many colleges and universities were already test-optional.  Some colleges now are test-free, which means they do not use standardized testing in the college process at all.  Preparing for standardized tests can be hugely beneficial, but the student needs to be the driver of this process.  If you understand the value of the test prep, you will be more successful throughout the process and the scores will likely reflect that preparation more than if you just went through the motions.  It’s tough to say, “yes, do it,” because for some students, testing does not reflect your abilities as a student.  Taking the SAT and ACT test are another opportunity. If you take the test, you may use it in your applications, but you may not.  It is not the end-all be all. 
 

ChatGPT Point 6 - Work on your resume and personal statement: Start drafting your resume and personal statement. Your resume should highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and work experience. Begin brainstorming ideas for your personal statement, which should convey your unique experiences, perspectives, and motivations. 

LOVE THIS! Anything you can do now to make the fall a little more manageable is a great thing! 
 

ChatGPT Point 7 - Seek out summer enrichment opportunities: Consider participating in summer programs, internships, or volunteer work related to your academic or career interests. These experiences can enhance your college applications by demonstrating your commitment, initiative, and ability to explore your areas of interest. 

This all sounds good, but let’s also consider cost. Many of these programs are very costly.  If you can afford and are interested in them, go for it.  If these are not options, consider what you could do that would be of interest and help you grow. Could you take a community college class?  Could you get a job?  Think of something that is productive. You NEED to take time to relax and spend time with your family but find something to continue being productive. 
 

ChatGPT Point 8 - Request letters of recommendation: If you have identified teachers, mentors, or supervisors who can write strong letters of recommendation for you, approach them early and ask if they would be willing to support your college applications. Provide them with any necessary information or forms they may require. 

This should have been completed during the spring of your junior year.  If you still need letters of recommendation from teachers, emailing them over the summer would be better than waiting until the fall.  But first, understand that teachers are also on break so you may not get an immediate reply.  Fill out your questionnaire, email the teacher, and if they agree, thank them profusely.  
 

ChatGPT Point 9 - Build your skills and pursue personal interests: Use the summer to engage in activities that allow you to develop your skills and explore your passions. This could include taking online courses, pursuing hobbies, participating in community service, or engaging in creative projects. 

Do you have a business that you started in the Entrepreneur Institute? Have you thought about what you will explore for your Medical Institute research project? I like the mention of the online courses here as well because that can be so valuable.  It could help you learn something new, or it could help accelerate you to a new level when you return to Perkiomen. And, community service is never a bad thing! 
 

ChatGPT Point 10 - Stay organized: Create a system to stay organized throughout the college search and application process. Keep track of application deadlines, required materials, and any other important information using a calendar or spreadsheet. 

Update your Scoir account! Refine your college list. Review and revise your activities list. Keep in touch with your counselor. If your Scoir account includes all the colleges currently on your list and you’ve discussed which application deadline you’re going to meet, then you should not need spreadsheets!  If you are considering art schools, use the summer to start the process of developing your portfolio.  
 

Remember, the college search and application process can be a journey of self-discovery. Use the summer to lay a strong foundation, conduct thorough research, and prepare yourself to showcase your strengths and interests in your college applications. 

I’ll say it again, update your Scoir account!  In the summer, focus on doing what you can to make the fall easier. Fill out the Common App and work on drafting your essay or essays. In addition, consider what areas you’d like to explore in order to facilitate growth as a student and young adult. If it’s community service, GREAT!  If it’s taking an online class or doing a summer program, GREAT!  If it’s getting a job, GREAT!  If it’s challenging you and rewarding, do it… but also do take some time to sit by the pool or read a great book.  You’ve earned that, too. 

The college process is filled with nuances, and as the name of this blog series reiterates, a lot of this process comes down to context.  The answers to many questions will be “it depends.”   The College Counseling Office is here to give the best advice possible within that context.  Our student-centered approach is focused on meeting the needs of our students while keeping their goals in mind -- and celebrating them along the way.  

If you have additional questions, schedule a time to speak with your counselor.  You can use the links below to schedule times over the summer!  

Mr. Ash: https://calendly.com/kash-perk

Ms. Davidson-Kellogg: https://calendly.com/perkiomen-collegecounseling-davidson-kellogg

Question: What to Do While Waiting for College Decisions

I get asked this a lot. Like the blog is titled, it depends. It depends on what you enjoy, what your concerns are and what will empower you and help you. So, let’s dive in and see what AI thinks you should do…

Waiting for college decisions can be an anxious and uncertain time. However, there are productive and positive steps you can take to make the most of this waiting period. Here are some suggestions:

Before we even start, let’s acknowledge that this time is the WORST! Waiting is really, really tough. It’s not fun. We’re not going to pretend that that it’s fun. So, let’s agree that it isn’t fun, but how do we make the most of it. ChatGPT doesn’t really admit that this is tough, but your counselors get it.
 

1.  Focus on self-care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Exercise regularly, practice mindfulness, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

This is always important, but now so more than ever. Sitting, stressing and worrying only punishes yourself. So, stick to the rhythm. Don’t stop working out. Don’t seclude and wait. Worrying won’t help so why waste energy on it?

2.  Explore new interests: Use this time to discover new hobbies or delve deeper into existing ones. Engage in activities that ignite your passion and allow you to develop new skills or knowledge.

ENGAGE! Try something new. During the fall, you dedicated so much time to college applications, that now you have more time to try something. Spend the time doing activities that challenge you or are rewarding.

3.  Volunteer or get involved in your community: Give back to your community by volunteering for local organizations or charities. Not only will you be making a positive impact, but you'll also gain valuable experiences and connections.

This is always good advice, but this can also be tough to do while waiting. If you applied for Early Action, you may only have a few weeks left to wait, but community service can be a fantastic way to spend your time. Volunteering can be great because it distracts you and it provides some perspective. If you’re stressed out because you’re waiting on decisions, helping those less fortunate can remind you that you’re waiting on which colleges are going to accept you.

4.  Reflect on your goals: Take this opportunity to reflect on your personal and academic goals. Evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Use this self-reflection to refine your career aspirations and consider potential majors or fields of study.

PLEASE don’t wait until the new year to set some goals. Do it now and put that determination and work ethic you put into your college apps into something new.

5.  Research and plan for the future: Spend time researching potential colleges, majors, and career paths. Explore different universities and their programs to get a better understanding of your options. Use this information to start creating a list of potential colleges to apply to or to narrow down your choices.

Ehhh… I don’t know about this. It just makes you spin because there are too many unknowns. I would devote a ton of time to this after you do know where you’ll be enrolling.

6.  Improve your skills: Identify areas where you want to enhance your skills or knowledge. Take online courses, attend workshops, or participate in relevant webinars to develop your abilities in areas that align with your interests and career goals.

This could be a little controversial, but what if you thought about taking an online college course? Some students may not be able to because of workload. If you have too many AP classes, this may be too much and would only stress you even more. If you have the time to handle it, consider if you can enroll in an online college course. Ideally, look for an asynchronous course. That way if you have a busy week, you can come back to the work. This way, you can use that time to be earning college credit ahead of time!

Remember, waiting for college decisions is just one part of your journey. Use this time wisely to focus on personal growth, explore your passions, and prepare for the exciting next chapter of your life.

That’s not a bad closing. This is your time so use it how you want, but let’s be clear: you are not being judged. That’s not what you’re waiting on. You’re just waiting for colleges to tell you if they’re the right fit for you!

Question: What should I do when I visit a college? 

When you visit college campuses, it's important to make the most of your time and gather as much information as possible. Here are some tips on what to do during your campus visits: 

1. Take a guided tour: Most colleges offer guided campus tours led by current students. Sign up for a tour to explore the campus and learn about its facilities, academic buildings, residence halls, dining options, and recreational areas. Pay attention to the tour guide's insights and ask questions along the way. 

Pretty standard advice.  Not going to disagree there.  

2. Attend an information session: Many colleges also provide information sessions where admissions representatives share details about the college's programs, admission process, financial aid, and campus life. Attend these sessions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the college and its offerings. 

Again… pretty good info.  Typically, there will be an information session prior to your tour. 
 

3. Engage with students and faculty: Take the opportunity to interact with current students and faculty members. Strike up conversations with students you encounter on campus, and don't hesitate to ask them about their experiences, academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus culture. If possible, arrange to meet with faculty members or visit academic departments to get a sense of the academic environment and potential opportunities for research or mentorship. 

This is not a requirement.  It can also be extremely challenging. Often families are initially touring colleges in the summer or over a high school break.  These colleges are also often on break, so there may not be many people around.  Interacting with faculty can also be difficult, however, smaller schools do this very well.   

Reach out to admissions to ask if there would be a possibility to meet a professor.  If you do meet one, don’t ask if the biology department (for example) is good.  Ask them to tell you about the opportunities their students are taking advantage of outside the classroom!   

Interacting with students on campus can seem daunting, but at the very least, observe the student population.  Is it diverse?  Are the students wearing college gear or repping other colleges?  Could you see yourself comfortable with the students you see while on campus?  That’s what you want to look for.  Walking up to a random student at a college and asking them to sell you on the college may not work out. It’s much easier to interact with students at an Accepted Students event or Open House on campus than during a regular tour. 
 

4. Explore campus facilities: Make sure to explore key campus facilities such as libraries, labs, athletic facilities, and student centers. Take note of the resources and support services available to students, as well as the condition and accessibility of these facilities. 

You’re making a big investment of time, money, and effort while in college.  Look for the right environment.  If you’re majoring in the sciences, then look for resources in that department.  If you want to play sports in college, look at the fields/facility. 
 

5. Observe campus life: As you walk around the campus, pay attention to the overall atmosphere and student life. Observe how students interact with each other, whether there are engaging activities taking place, and how vibrant the campus feels. This will help you gauge whether the college aligns with your preferences and interests. 

Go look at the weight room!  Even if lifting isn’t your thing, go see what the weight room looks like.  The state of the weight room is a huge indication of the culture of a campus.  Are there weights everywhere?  Much like going to a town and seeing how many shopping carts are left out at the grocery store, this is a great indication of the community on a campus.  Do you take pride in your community enough to return your weights?  It may seem silly, but it's a nice little barometer.   Check out the dining hall.  Are students sitting in groups or alone? Are they studying or socializing? 
 

6. Sample the local area: Venture beyond the campus boundaries to explore the surrounding area. Check out nearby shops, restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions. Consider whether the location offers amenities and resources that suit your lifestyle and preferences. 

This is a fantastic suggestion!  What is around the college? Do you feel safe leaving campus?  Are there things to do?  This isn’t the most important thing in the world, because colleges offer so much on campus, but it will be part of your experience.  For international students, how far away are the airports and public transportation?  If there is a significant distance, ask about transportation from the colleges. 
 

7. Attend classes or events: If possible, arrange to sit in on a class or attend campus events. Experiencing a class firsthand can give you a sense of the teaching style, class size, and student engagement. Attending events like guest lectures, performances, or club meetings can provide insights into the campus community and its extracurricular offerings. 

This is likely not going to be possible on your first visit if you have set up an admissions tour. Sitting in on a class will happen more likely during an Accepted Students Day or Open House.  To get a sense of classes, ask a tour guide what their largest and smallest class size has been in their time.  That could give you an idea of the range. 
 

8. Take notes and photos: Bring a notebook or use your smartphone to jot down important observations, thoughts, and questions during your visit. Taking photos can also help you remember specific details and compare different campuses later on. 

I would love if my students took a notebook, but I also know that many take notes right on their phones.  I would suggest bringing a small notebook and jotting down some notes.  Don’t do it on your phone because you’ll unintentionally look uninterested.  If you need to take the notes and put them into your phone later, that’s a better idea than sitting in an info session and looking at your phone or walking around campus looking down at your phone.  Take lots of photos though… that’s great advice.  It will help jog your memory later, too. 

9. Reflect on your impressions: After each campus visit, take some time to reflect on your overall impressions and how well the college aligns with your academic and personal goals. Consider the campus culture, academic offerings, support services, facilities, and overall environment. Reflecting on your experiences can help you make informed decisions during the college selection process. 

Could I see myself here?  That’s the ultimate question.  Start with the positives on every campus.  The absolute dealbreaker is safety.  If you don’t feel safe, take the school off the list.  If you felt safe, consider all the other positives and ask yourself if you could see yourself being there.   
 

10. Ask for contact information: Before leaving the campus, make sure to collect contact information for the admissions office or any individuals you've connected with during your visit. This will allow you to follow up with any additional questions or inquiries that may arise later on. 

You can do this, but there’s also the internet.  You don’t need to ask all the admissions people.  Just Google: ____ University admissions staff.  It will come up and you won’t have to carry around a bunch of business cards.  Focus on getting contact information from students you meet if you’d like to have further conversations.  Admissions representatives don’t make it hard to find their emails. 

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Do the tour, but then stick around for a while.  Sit on a bench and just observe.  Take an extra five minutes.  What are the aspects of that college that you want to see in other colleges you tour?  The more you can reflect while on campus, the better.  It will also help lead to better conversations with your college counselor.