It is the season for college applications for high school seniors and many students don’t how to start.
Although it can be overwhelming, with a positive mindset and organized process, college applications can be fulfilling in the end. Here at Aliso Niguel High School, our counselors have some tips for students who are struggling with starting their college applications.
“The most important step in starting college applications is to make sure to have a personalized college list,” said Mrs. Nguyen.
Mrs. Nguyen is the College and Career Counselor at Aliso Niguel’s campus. She explains further in detail that picking colleges that make sense for financial needs, social needs, and academic needs is essential to creating a personalized college list. It is important for students to know what they want to major in in college before choosing schools as some might not offer the major they want to go in.
At the same time, it’s good to know if you want to spend more than four years on campus so you can look into the school environment. It is also important to consider staying close to home or out of state so you can put distance into consideration.
“Some common problems I see with students are not using the resources they have. Many don’t know that counselors at school, teachers and futurology are all support systems for them to use,” said Laura Liegler.
Liegler is one of the many guidance counselors at Aliso Niguel High School who are here to help students with academic or emotional issues. Throughout the years, she and other counselors have dealt with and resolved many issues revolving around college, and her advice is spoken from experience.
Many times students overestimate the time they have when it comes to finishing their college applications. This results in them cramping essays and not creating quality work when turning their essays in. Students should acknowledge that there is only a limited amount of time.
“I think the best advice I would give to any students when it comes to writing their college applications is to start early,” said Mrs. Liegler .
Same advice was given by Mrs. Nguyen. As of now, the Universities of California and Common Applications are all open. Cal States and community colleges will open in October.
Although college applications can be stressful, a lot of students are also stressed when waiting for decisions. However, Mrs. Leigler voiced that she and the other counselors are always here to support students, no matter what, and want students to be comfortable expressing their feelings in front of them.
At the same time, the College and Career Center voiced that they will always be here to help students who are unsure or struggling to find their future path to ensure they have the brightest possible future.
With the University of California and Common applications currently open, it’s essential for students to begin the process as soon as possible to avoid added stress. By taking advantage of the resources available and starting early, students can make the most of this exciting time.
