We have written many blogs about the importance of getting your college application correct, one that reflects the true ability of the candidate that is applying for college. Again this year I am reminded how many mistakes can be made in the application process. From not getting the right message across in the application essays, to listing the student’s activities incorrectly and not using the proper words to describe that activity. We have seen all of the mistakes over the last 12 years from our own students, and corrected them, and have stressed how each piece that is the admission puzzle needs to fit together. This includes selecting the college that will be a great fit and also offer the best financial package to the student. All of this aside it is more important today to gain an edge in the fierce competition of college applications. We know how much time we spend with our students and also know that school counselors are spending an average of 42 minutes per student on college planning. This can be a problem, especially when students have selective colleges on their list, they need much more input from a professional and we encourage parents to seek professionals who can help with college strategy and essay prep, with our own service in mind.
According to recent data from the American School Counselor Association, the nationwide average student-to-school-counselor ratio is 482 to 1. Throw in the dwindling school resources forcing budget cuts, guidance counselors frequently find themselves performing tasks such as disciplining and proctoring exams, leaving them with less time to spend with students to plan for college.
“The college application process is complicated and needs to be done in a strategic way. We like our students to start early and not be rushed,” stated Lisa Schmidt, College Counselor at Parros College Planning.
I would also like to point out to parents who attended college how different today’s process is from when they applied over 20 years ago.
“I remember when I applied to college, I picked one and applied. I got in and went, there was not much more to it than that”, said Kim Parros, Essay Specialist.
Today the application requirements vary from college to college. The process can include subject test scores being sent, interviews being scheduled before, during or after the application process, and there are scholarships to consider with their own deadlines. Our job is to make the process flow well and to alleviate any anxiety about the application process since the process can be daunting. Now add to this the myriad of forms including the FAFSA – the required Free Application for Federal Student Aid – lots of deadlines and financial information to unearth. Now you have the reason that people are using, and recommending, our services.
We would love to hear from you and to help you and your family through the admission process, please schedule a complimentary appointment with us to hear the ways that we can help you.
