Letter to the Editor
Advice From a High School Senior Parent to Juniors and Theirs…
The tests have been taken, applications sent, and college portals completed. Now, we wait. We wait anxiously, hoping to hear soon, but not too soon. Knowing that this part of my daughter’s journey, the part where she goes to school every morning, has practices during the week, football games and dances will soon be a memory.
We wait for the college decisions to arrive.
As I contemplate the past year, I want to share some advice to juniors and their parents who are thinking they have plenty of time to prepare for the college process. This can be a stressful time, but gradual preparation can take some of that away.
First, don’t wait to take the tests. Register to take either the ACT, SAT, or both, this fall. This gives plenty of time to take a second or third test in the spring, to increase scores.
Furthermore, tour colleges now. You sign up on their websites to reserve a spot. The main state colleges’ tour dates fill up fast, and are only offered during the week. You’ll want to go when students are on campus, not on vacation. This can give you a better vibe of the campus atmosphere, and you can talk to current students.
In addition, get familiar with Common App, the site through which you apply to most colleges. Get familiar, but don’t complete it until it resets (this year it was August 1).
Also, start to think about the personal essay that needs to be written for college applications. Some colleges also ask for supplemental essays, but you won’t know if or what the prompt is until the application process begins.
Equally important, begin to finish your Bright Future hours. This is free money from the state. Check with your high school counselor to be sure you, and your supervisors, are filling out all the necessary paperwork.
Another tip is to join a Facebook college prep page, such as College Bound Florida. This is run by knowledgeable, local high school counselors who are in touch with the state universities’ admissions departments. They hold Zoom meetings with the professionals who give essay writing and financial advice, as well as how to fill out the Common App. You’ll get a good idea of what is to come from the questions being asked now.
Lastly, go to college night at your school. The college admission representatives are very honest and helpful, regarding everything from the classes you need to take your senior year, to what they have to offer.
Students, do enjoy your junior year. Have fun and take advantage of everything high school has to offer. Consider these tips to help make your summer before, and senior year, a little less stressful.
By Janet Cabai-Clark
