DePauw University-Tip from Orlando Ramirez, Assistant Director of Admissions
Try to talk with as many constituencies from the school as possible. This would include the admissions counselor, a professor, a current student, and any alumni, especially younger alums and those who may live locally.
University of Chicago-Carol Lin-Murphy, Director of Admissions
Try to keep this process in perspective, and think long-term as you embark upon this journey! You will continue to evolve and grow and this process should reflect this as well. It's ok to change your mind, and you should from time to time reconsider what's important to you. No matter the ultimate outcome, you have a bright future ahead.
U of I, Urbana-Champaign: Scott Carlson, Admission Counselor
Students should set up a separate email account for their college applications. By having a separate email account it will allow the student to keep all of their college emails in one account separate from their high school or their parent's email account. Additionally, by setting up a new email account the student can make sure that it is a professional email. Also, work to consistently make strong grades in your courses. Taking advanced classes can increase your chance of being accepted to Illinois. Tougher coursework proves that you like a challenge and are willing to work hard. This can also help you earn higher test scores and receive scholarships. Don't get down if you receive slightly lower grades in these classes. We take the level of difficulty into consideration.
Miami University: Heather Chase, Associate Director for Regional Enrollment
Keep an open mind! You never know when an unknown school might surprise you and end up being your favorite. Visit, visit, visit before forming an opinion. For admission to Miami, college prep curriculum in the five major subject areas is preferred: English, Math, Science, Social Science, and Foreign Language. Also, Miami requires four years of math. Challenge yourself with AP/Honors curriculum when you feel ready--those courses certainly work in your favor when we are reviewing your application for admission.
Xavier University: Julie Nelson, Regional recruitment Director
Find your "Julie" at every school to which you apply. Your admission counselor (at Xavier, it's me, Julie Nelson, hence "find your Julie) is ready and willing to help you every step of the way, whether you just have a basic question or you really need to drill down to the heart of a problem. Instead of endlessly searching a website, send an email or pick up the phone. Your "Julie" is probably also the person who will read your application and advocate for you in the process, so don't be afraid to introduce yourself.
Individual College Planning Meetings for Juniors & Parents
Counselors will be meeting individually with their juniors and parents throughout the months of March-May to discuss the college process. During these appointments, counselors can assist with developing a list of safety, target and stretch schools.
Campus Visits
The best way to determine if a college is a good fit for a student is to visit the campus. Scheduling the visit through the admissions office a few weeks in advance will ensure the date and time will be available to meet with a college admission counselor in person and participate in a student-led tour. When possible, take advantage of some dates when LFHS is not in session (such as President's Day or Spring Break) to start visiting campuses. Take notes while on a visit so details about each school can be recalled later. Also, if a student knows what they want to study in college, meeting with a professor from that particular department can often be arranged while on a visit, if enough notice is given with the admissions office. Students, remember: there is more than one college that can provide a robust post-secondary experience for you. Be open to the different experiences that each school can offer.
Financial Aid
Families that need financial assistance to offset the cost of attending college are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form is available online for seniors and their parents and is found at https://studentaid.ed.gov.
FAFSA Requirement
Completing the FAFSA form, or signing a waiver to indicate that the FAFSA will not be completed, is a graduation requirement for our seniors.
4-Year Plan
Freshman and Sophomore Counselor Seminars
Counselors will be meeting with their Freshmen and Sophomores in April or May to do a career inventory. Each year the students are given a different career assessment to continue to expose them to the vast array of careers that are available, and that match with the student’s interests and personalities.
Course Selection Appointments
Deadline March 3rd at 3:00 PM
Counselors are meeting with students in February and March to discuss and pick classes for the next academic year. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves in their courses, while keeping balance in mind, relative to each student’s outside activities. Schedules will be sent home in July.
Standardized Testing
Juniors will take the SAT as part of their school day on April 13th, and this is a graduation requirement. For any national ACT or SAT test dates that juniors want to take, they will need to register directly with the testing agency: act.org or collegeboard.org. Many colleges will remain test optional, which allows students to choose whether or not they would like to submit a test score along with their applications.
