College applications 101: everything you need to know (or not)

How to use this guide: Need a raw, relatable, not-so-serious read about the college application process? Read the first paragraph of each step. Looking for real world advice? Read the second paragraphs.

The college application season is in full swing, and seniors are one step closer to graduating!

By Josie Speerstra

Nov. 14, 2024

With the college application season in full swing, stress and confusion among seniors like me are at an all time high. That is why I have taken personal time to graciously compile a step by step (mostly) comprehensive list on how to apply to college, so your college application experience isn’t as stressful as it has the potential to be. 

How to use this guide: 

Need a raw, relatable read about the college application process? Read the first paragraph of each step. Looking for real world advice? Read the second paragraphs.

Step 1: Cry | Prioritize your mental health

Because college is stressful, it is incredibly important to get all those feelings out before you begin applying. Doing so will allow your mind to be clear. Don't worry, though, there will be plenty of time to cry later as well; In between each of these steps, we have accounted for some time to break down mentally (if needed).

In all seriousness, it is important that, throughout this process, you find time to de-stress. College applications can be all consuming, so it’s important to find time for yourself. Make sure that you do take the time for yourself, it helps to keep a to-do list or a planner, that way you can plan for when to do college applications and when to take a break. 

Step 2: Lower your expectations | Establish a balanced list of schools

As you open the Common Application to start (or finish) your applications, mentally prepare for rejections. Go in with reasonable expectations. You will face disappointment and success, but be prepared for a lot of the former. Everybody has talents, but that doesn’t mean everybody is receiving an acceptance letter from Harvard.

Creating a balanced list of schools is essential to a successful college application season. Gunning for top schools is just as important as establishing a set of “easier,” schools that you’d be glad to attend come next fall. Most students call these “Safety” schools, and they are a smart idea so that it is not soul crushing when you only do a couple applications and don't get accepted into any of them. 

Step 3: Decide a major (or not)

Personally, I like to go to the "flat earthers" Q&A page and ask them which college they think I should go to. This only works some of the time, depending on who is working the social media page that day. Steven says that Florida Memorial University is the way to go.

On a realistic note, and assuming you've already chosen a major, then do research on schools providing the best education for your major. If you're undecided (which is totally fine) then choose schools with diverse learning opportunities, and look for other qualities you would like to see in a school. For example, if you already know which major you plan on studying, schools like Brown University, which allow you to choose your own classes with minimal requirements through an "Open Curriculum." This gives students the advantage of taking only taking courses that pertain to their majors or that they're interested in. If you're still deciding, schools like Columbia University and University of Chicago offer the "Core Curriculum," which require students to take a variety of courses and explore different ideas. This is a great opportunity to explore different paths of study.

Step 4: Write down the schools that speak to you emotionally, and spiritually | Research those colleges

Whatever Steve told you, write that down! You'll refer back to it later when you actually apply. Remember though, spelling is incredibly important. You wouldn't want to end up at Stanford when you meant Stamford or University of North Carolina when you really wanted to go to University of Northern Colorado. And remember those overachieving friends you used to talk to? Hit them up. They've probably applied to 20 universities already and have the requirements for each one memorized.

Once you find the schools that meet your requirements, write them all down. Making a spreadsheet with all of the colleges you intend to apply to and their deadlines and requirements will help you stay organized. Do further research on each of the universities. Note specific clubs, classes, and events you'd like to participate in if you get accepted. This practice will help you write the notorious "Why us?" essays.

Step 5: Begin applying to colleges

Write your college essay, and use your trusty carrier owl to send it on its treacherous journey to Hogwarts. (I heard they now have a college level program).

Begin applying to colleges by using the Common App, which allows you to apply to multiple colleges from a single platform. Some colleges such as the University of California colleges do not use the Common App, and instead use their own application system.

Step 6: Channel your inner Hermione Granger | Begin writing your essays

Channel your inner Hermione Granger and begin writing! Once you start, you won't be able to stop.

Start by brainstorming ideas on a variety of topics. Remember, anything goes, so don't shut down any ideas, especially the ones you think are stupid... they might turn into a killer essay. Next, create an outline that details all your main points. By adhering to your outline, you'll be sure to answer the prompt and not stray from it. Finally, pretend that you're writing an essay for a school assignment, except you need to do better... a lot better, and begin writing!

Step 7: Reread, revise, edit, peer review, and repeat 100 times

Reread, revise, edit, peer review. Reread, revise, edit, peer review. Reread, revise, edit, peer review. Reread, revise, edit, peer review. Reread, revise, edit, peer review. Reread, revise, edit, peer review...

Make time to review your essay because there will almost always be easily fixable mistakes. Reread your essay as many times as you deem necessary, always making sure to look out for grammar mistakes or key ideas that need revising. Next, have your closest friends and family members read your essay and provide feedback. Make sure that they don't take away from your voice, however. By the time the essay is finished, anybody who reads it should be able to tell that you're the author based on the unique voice you present through your writing.

Step 8: Asking for letters of rec... dear god

When in doubt, ask your advisory teacher... to write you a letter of recommendation right before the deadline, and then get angry that they haven't submitted it in time.

But seriously, it's not a fun experience. If you know what major you are going into, choose a teacher that specializes in a related subject. For example, if you're wanting to major in a tech related field, you might consider asking for a letter of recommendation from tech teacher Mr. Karden. Choose teachers who know you well, as they will be able to provide the most information about you. Finally, give your teachers enough time to write your letter of recommendation because you aren't the only student asking for them. It is generally recommended that you give three to four weeks of time for the letter of recommendation to be written.

Note: When applying, there will be a question that asks if you want to waive your rights to view the letter of recommendation before it is sent to colleges. If you waive your right to view the letter, you will not be able to see what your teacher says about you. If you don't waive your rights, you will be able to read the letter. Keep in mind that colleges can see this.

Step 9: Take advantage of school resources (or your counselor's free snacks)

Make sure to always go to Quad C in the library and pester your counselor for free snacks. Don't ask for help, just grub.

The Quad C program offered in the library is an excellent way to prepare for college and get advice from your experienced counselors. They can help you through any of your doubts throughout the process, so keep an eye out for Quad C events.

Step 10:  Be prepared for deadlines

Satanic rituals. Donate a building. Pay hush money to the admissions counselors. Whatever you need to make them accept you into your dream college. No further explanation needed. 

All the steps before this one are to help prepare you for the early admissions deadlines and the free application day. For all seniors the day for free applications if over, and early admissions are fast approaching, it's highly recommended that you do take advantage of this early admissions, but if you don't want to or don't have time, fear not, for there is still time to apply for regular admissions. For all freshman sophomore and juniors, keep these steps in minds for next year, and get a head start on your applications so it doesn't stress you out and consume your every waking thought.