2009 has ended.  In not sure, in the Chinese calendar, what 2009 was about but for many it was the year of “hit me in the gut”.   Thank goodness and good riddance.  This year has been both challenging but exciting and I think we have all learned a lesson or two.  I see a lot of kids though who are still wondering which college they are going to apply.  So I thought I would talk a little about college admissions and some of the most common mistakes that I see.

Probably the number 1 college admission mistake.

I see is kids miss deadlines.  They have the plan to fill out that application; it’s even sitting on their desk under the Lady Ga Ga CD cover and their laptop computer.  If your child misses the deadline, their chances of getting in decline.  So it’s ok mom and dad to push your children to finish the application.  After all, what they do can and will affect your pocket book.  I had a post a little bit about about college admissions. A local paper quoted an admission counselor from Wayne State.  Essentially, he said that it’s the job of the financial aid department to “make it happen”.  Psst.  What he is saying is if the admissions office wants your child, they will push the other departments to give you a financial package that will make it very difficult to not accept.  If your child misses deadlines, do you really think the admission office is going to be excited about your child?  Nope.

The common app is gaining popularity as well.  I like the application but I think it also has a drawback.  I think if something is too easy we don’t really value it.  I’m always telling parents and kids alike, that even though you sent an email, it does not mean the person got it, read it, or ignored it.  I receive 100 emails a day.  I scan them.  Sometimes I miss important emails.  This is why you should always follow up with the university to make sure they have everything.  Also on the form you will designate your child’s high school counselor and in addition your child can designate the teachers who will do their letter or recommendation.  As soon as your child hits the button, have them call the counselor at the high school to make sure they actually send out transcripts.  The college may not let your know they still need them.

Then have them walk up to the teachers they have designated to do their letters of recommendation and thank them ahead of time.  Now the teacher will be aware they should check their email and they won’t be surprised.  Before I jump off this point, make sure your kids give the teachers ample time to complete the letter of recommendation.  Don’t expect the teacher to finish it in a weekend. Give them at least 2 weeks.

Some people would say that the application is the responsibility of the child to take the initiative.

Yes I agree they should be doing 90% of the work.  But let’s keep something in mind here. They are still 16 year old kids that have doubts, fears, and a heck of a lot of uncertainty about their decisions.  Besides…..if they make mistakes, it will cost you the parent and in the long run themselves.  You’re going to find that the college is going to include you in the financial side of this.  Take an active role but don’t be overbearing.  You know your child so help them through the steps.

One additional thing…..keep yourself organized.  Write down the deadlines on a calendar and keep your kids on track.  You’ll be glad you did.

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