Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Parent Guide to the Common Application

By Amanda Gohl

The Common App allows both first-time students and transfer students to apply to multiple colleges at once, eliminating having to repeat some of the most tedious parts of the application. However, navigating this platform can be daunting, especially for first-time parents. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the Common App step-by-step, empowering parents to support your student effectively on their journey to higher education.

Give yourself plenty of time to complete your applications. It shouldn’t be crammed into one sitting. Start early so you have plenty of time to be thoughtful in your responses.

Step 1: Create an Account

The first step is for the student to visit the Common App website (commonapp.org) and create an account. Tip: students should use a personal email address, not their high school email address.

Step 2: Add Colleges

Using the “College Search” feature, they can easily find and add institutions to their list.

Step 3: Common App Components

In the “Profile” section under the “Common App” tab, your student will provide their personal details, contact information, and demographic data. Remind them to be accurate and consistent throughout the application.

The “Family” section asks about your household. Only the boxes with the red asterisk are required.

The “Education” section requires information about your student’s high school, planned courses for senior year, and academic achievements. If required, students will see an additional section for “Courses & Grades” where they’ll individually enter every class taken and grade earned in high school. Students will need a current high school transcript to help with this process.

The “Testing” section allows students to enter scores for tests they’ve previously taken and also list upcoming test dates. Students can still choose within each individual application to apply with or without test scores, if the college is test-optional. Unsure if testing is required? Visit the Dashboard tab and click on “Application Requirements.”

The “Activities” section is an opportunity for your student to showcase their involvement outside the classroom. Advise them to highlight their most meaningful activities and provide brief descriptions of each.

Step 4: Tackle the Essay Prompts

The “Writing” section is where your student will respond to the essay prompts required by the Common Application. Encourage them to start early, allowing ample time for revisions. Remind them to let their authentic voice shine through and share personal stories that demonstrate their character and values.

The “Additional Information” section under “Writing” is an opportunity for students to write about something not included in other parts of their application that they feel is important for the admissions office to know. Your counselor can help you determine if you need to include anything here.

Step 5: Request Recommendations

To see what each college requires at a glance, revisit your “Dashboard” and click on the “Application Requirements” button. The end of the grid will tell you which colleges require (and how many) teacher evaluation, other evaluations, and counselor recommendation.

To add recommenders or collaborators, go to the “My Colleges” tab. You’ll need to individually add teachers and other recommenders within each college. Start by choosing one of your colleges and click on “Recommenders and FERPA.” You will first need to complete the “FERPA Release Authorization” before you can add recommenders.

Next you can add your counselor (only need to add once), teacher(s) (add for each college as needed), other recommenders, and advisor(s) if needed.

Step 6: Additional Application Components

Within each college tab you’ll have “Questions” specific to that college and their application. Once you select your “Preferred start term” you’ll choose your “Preferred admission plan”. Refer to the “College Information” section for admission deadlines.

Some colleges may have a required Writing Supplement embedded into the Common App. This will need to be completed before submitting your application.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Before hitting the submit button, thoroughly review the entire application for accuracy and completeness. Double-check that all essay prompts are adequately addressed and that there are no errors in the form. You do not have to wait until you’ve completed every application nor do you need to wait until your counselor or recommenders have completed their portion. When you complete an application on your end, you may submit it.

Step 8: Pay Application Fees

Be mindful of application fees. The application grid from the dashboard can give you a quick overview of the total cost of your applications. If needed, discuss potential fee waivers or alternative financial options with your student’s school counselor.

Step 9: Monitor Application Status

After submission, your student can track the status of their application through the dashboard. Keep an eye on deadlines and make sure supplementary materials, like test scores and transcripts, are sent to colleges on time.

What Happens Next?

The Common App dashboard gives a nice overview of requirements but students should also have their own way of keeping track of deadlines and next steps as they may be submitting applications that are not on the Common App. Most colleges will send students an email once they’ve received the application to create an account through the college. It may take several business days for all application components to be recognized in the college portal, don’t panic! Pay attention in your portal to any additional requirements such as other essays, scholarship deadlines, etc.

Conclusion

The Common App can seem overwhelming at first, but with this step-by-step guide, you and your college-bound student can confidently navigate the process together. Parents – encourage your student to take the reins while offering guidance and support when needed. Remember, the college application journey is not just about reaching the destination but also about the growth and self-discovery that comes along the way. Embrace this exciting time and celebrate each milestone achieved. With determination and preparation, your student will be well on their way to making their college dreams a reality

Monday, March 18, 2024

UGA Admissions Stats for the Class of 2028

On Friday, the University of Georgia released the final round of admission decisions for the class of 2028. Below you'll find quick facts, a helpful infographic that highlights this talented group of students and an announcement regarding the commitment deposit deadline.

Breakdown for the Class of 2028:

Admitted: 15,900+
Wait listed: 3,620+
Denied: 22,200+
Admitted for Spring 2025: 366

Academic Profile for the Class of 2028 (mid 50% range):

GPA: 4.05 - 4.33
SAT: 1280 - 1470
ACT: 29 - 34
AP/IB courses: 8 - 13

Commitment Deadline Extension for Georgia Residents:

As a result of the ongoing delays with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), we are extending the deadline for Georgia Residents to submit their commitment deposit to May 15. It is important to note that the commitment deadline for admitted students who are classified as Non-Georgia Residents and International students will remain unchanged and will still be May 1. The extension is intended to grant Georgia Residents, who are most likely to be impacted by the delay in federal aid, additional time to review, understand and consider financial aid offers before making a final decision.

The Office of Admissions thanks you for your collaboration and support throughout this academic year. We are genuinely amazed by the academic and extracurricular accomplishments of the students in our applicant pool. We recognize your role in supporting these students as they navigate their high school experience and prepare for the next step in their educational careers. Thank you for all that you do.

David Graves
Director of Admissions

Office of Undergraduate Admissions | University of Georgia

Terrell Hall | Athens, GA 30602-1633

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Friday, March 15, 2024

Navigating the “Second Look: A Parent’s Guide to “Accepted Student Day”

by Lee Shulman Bierer

As a parent, watching your high school senior transition from adolescence to adulthood is both exciting and nerve-wracking. After months of college applications, essays, and waiting, your child is about to be accepted to multiple colleges, and soon it will be time for the “second look” visits. These visits are crucial in helping your child make their final decision about where to attend college.

As a parent, your role in this process is essential, and here’s how you can navigate it effectively:

Encourage Exploration: The second look visits offer an opportunity for your child to explore the campus, meet with professors, and interact with current students. Encourage them to ask questions and immerse themselves in the college environment. While it’s natural to feel nervous about the unknown, remind them that this process is about finding the right fit.
Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Ask them about their impressions of each college they visit, what aspects they liked or didn’t like, and any concerns they may have. Listen attentively and offer support without imposing your own preferences.
Discuss Priorities: Help your child identify their priorities in a college or university. This could include factors such as academic programs, campus culture, location, extracurricular activities, distance from home, financial aid, and career opportunities. Encourage them to prioritize what matters most to them and consider how each college aligns with those priorities.
Financial Considerations: Have open and honest discussions about the financial aspects of attending each college. Review financial aid packages, scholarships, and any potential student loans. Consider the long-term implications of each financial decision and how it aligns with your family’s financial goals.
Trust Their Instincts: Ultimately, the decision about where to attend college should be driven by your child’s instincts and aspirations. While you can offer guidance and support, it’s essential to respect their autonomy in making this decision. Trust that they will choose the college that feels right for them.
Stay Positive and Supportive: The college decision process can be overwhelming for both parents and students. Stay positive and supportive throughout this journey, reassuring your child that no matter which college they choose, you will be there to support them every step of the way.
Seek Guidance if Needed: If your child is struggling to make a decision or if you have concerns about their choices, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from college counselors, teachers, or other trusted advisors. Sometimes an outside perspective can offer clarity and perspective.

The “second look” visits mark the final stretch of the college decision process, culminating in one of the most significant decisions your child will make in their young adult life. By offering guidance, support, and encouragement, you can help your high school senior navigate this transition with confidence and clarity. Remember that no matter which college they choose, their success ultimately depends on their dedication, passion, and hard work. So, celebrate this milestone together and look forward to the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Thursday, March 14, 2024

When a College Says No

From College Admission Expert Patrick O'Connor, Ph.D.

The real madness of March has nothing to do with basketball—it begins when colleges announce their admissions decisions, starting around March 20. As a pre-game warmup, let’s review what we already know:

Most selective colleges report an increase in applicants every year;
Since these schools don’t admit more students than they did last year, that means they end up saying no to more students…
…and wait-listing more students. This increase means fewer students are likely to be admitted from the waitlist come May—and if they are admitted, financial aid will be scarce.

To ease your concern, I have one word of advice. Actually, it’s a number:

850

To begin with, calm down. This is not the highest score you can earn on some mystery version of the SAT. Eight hundred fifty is the number of valedictorians recently rejected from one of America’s most prestigious colleges. These students represented the best their high schools had to offer; they did everything they were “supposed” to do, yet they weren’t even offered a place on the waitlist.

At this point you’re probably thinking one of two things:

“Wow, they put in all that work for nothing.”
“Geez, if they can’t get in, I don’t stand a chance.”

First things first. It had to be hard to be turned down by a school they loved—but did all that preparation really lead to nothing? Given everything these students had learned, the ways they had grown, and how they overcame adversity and embraced creativity in creating College Plans, B, C, and Q, did they really get nothing out of it?

If so, they have every right to be unhappy, but not with the college. They should be unhappy watching the sun rise and set 1307 times since the first day of ninth grade to the day the college said no, never once appreciating all each of those days had to offer in and of themselves.

They should hang their heads a little to realize, just now, the difference they’ve made to their classmates, their teammates, and the people in the soup kitchen.

And if they look back with regret on the many times they blew off a compliment from a teacher or parent because the goal of college wasn’t realized, that’s more than OK. They now know that the goal of fully living each day was conquered with a flourish—and that understanding will make each day all the richer at the wonderful college that had the good sense (and room) to take them.

What about the colleges you applied to? They’re looking for great students who have done wonderful things with their lives, and will work nicely with the other admitted students. That blend goes beyond test score and class rank—it goes to who you are, what you care about, and how you see the world. Problem is, they run out of room before they run out of qualified applicants.

The thing to focus on then is not who told you no, but who told you yes. If a college wants you but runs out of room, that’s their fault; if they don’t see you for who you really are, well, maybe that’s not the place for you after all. Either way, your contributions will be greatly admired, and badly needed, by the college that had the good sense to tell you yes—which means any no, from any college, simply cannot touch you.

Monday, March 11, 2024

EXCELLENCE DOES NOT GUARANTEE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

By the College Spy

Class of 2025 students and parents,

As we get ready to go into college admissions season, it is good to be reminded that there is no magic formula to getting into your dream school. Unfortunately, you can do all the right things and still not be admitted into your dream school. Please read these thoughts from a college admission specialist about the reality of college admissions. Remember this, as it will keep you grounded!!

The Reality

We've all heard the story of the valedictorian with impressive extracurriculars and perfect test scores getting rejected from their dream college. Parents and students are baffled. "How could this happen with such a stellar record?"

The hard truth is this: college admissions isn't a meritocracy. In the whirlwind of SATs, GPAs, and extracurricular activities, students are often led to believe that ticking all the right boxes will usher them through the gates of any college their heart desires. Yet, the stark reality is that the college admissions process is complex and influenced by a myriad of factors—many of which are outside students' control. Selection committees look at a vast pool of candidates and often make decisions based on institutional needs and a balance of various student profiles. It's not a matter of fairness; it's about crafting a diverse freshman class, each admission slot filled with a puzzle piece that creates the overall picture the institution is striving for.

The Bright Side

Your child's worth is not defined by an acceptance letter. The skills, qualities, and experiences that they've acquired in high school will serve them well at any college. Encourage your child to continue to set ambitious goals, nurture their intellect, and contribute to their community. With these qualities, skills and experiences, they'll flourish and find success wherever they land.

The College Spy's Recommendations

1. Cast a wide net if your child is applying to selective colleges where qualified applicants are routinely rejected. Make sure the list contains target and likely choices.
2. Thoroughly research all colleges on your list (not just the most selective ones) to show your child that each college is worthy of their attention and consideration.
3. Visit as many colleges on your student's list as possible. Do not only visit the prestigious ones. I guarantee that you will be impressed by colleges that aren't the most selective.

Friday, March 8, 2024

Leadership Opportunities

In partnership with Goldman Sachs, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change welcomes you to the EmpowHER: Empowering Black Girls to Lead program. This inaugural cohort serves an all-black female cohort (ages 13-18) focusing on character development, wellness, and career readiness. Our character development programming highlights NV365 (the philosophy and methodology of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.). Our wellness curriculum engages with mental and physical health activities such as meditation, etiquette, and self-branding. Lastly, our career readiness programming includes resume writing, LinkedIn branding, and interviewing. The cohort consists of monthly sessions - four in-person Saturday sessions in Atlanta, GA, and three Tuesday evening virtual sessions.

Imagine a sea of pink, girls cheering, women laughing, and a spirit of love and unity filling the atmosphere. That is what you see and feel at the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium – Black Girls Dream Conference. This unique convening of Black girls, gender expansive youth, and women focuses on visioning, preserving culture, leadership, organizational development, organizing communities, mental and physical health and wellness, entrepreneurship, academic and collegiate preparation, hands-on STEAM programming and much more in a vibrant atmosphere of fun and celebration. It’s where Southern Black Girls reflect, reconnect, and rejuvenate our spirits.

Continuing this tradition, the 2024 Black Girls Dreams Conference with an emphasis on Afrofuturism aims to inspire attendees to dream even bigger but also give them the ability to execute. Afrofuturism envisions the future of Black life, liberated from societal oppression and earthly-bound constraints.

Wednesday, March 6, 2024