Top 10 Tips for High Schoolers Applying to College

As a rising college freshman, I can now say that I have officially survived the college application process. It’s been a grueling past few years. But now that I finally know what school I’m attending this fall, I feel qualified to give prospective college applicants some advice.

So here are my top 10 tips for high schoolers considering higher education.

1. Have a course plan for all four years

Colleges like to see students take rigorous classes that challenge them academically and emotionally. It helps to map out your high school schedules early on to ensure that you know about each opportunity your school offers and which are wise to take advantage of. This method also ensures a schedule that makes sense, since you’ll already know what classes you want to take each year. 

2. Take classes related to your intended major 

While there is nothing wrong with branching out and trying new things, it’s never a good idea to take classes just because they are Advanced Placement level. Make sure to take the toughest classes available for your intended major and focus your energy on those courses. While it’s still important to challenge yourself in other fields, prioritizing your academic path can give you the foundation you need in the future.

3. Participate in activities that you enjoy, but try to relate them to your major 

Again, relating what you do in high school to your major can be key for admission success. Be sure to take advantage of extracurriculars that relate to what you want to study in college. This shouldn’t stop you from trying out for a sports team or taking a fun art class, but participating in activities related to what you plan to study demonstrates genuine passion to colleges. 

4. Challenge yourself, but don’t be afraid to ask for help

High school isn’t exactly easy. And there’s nothing wrong with asking for help from teachers, tutors or other resources. Even so, the challenges you face academically throughout high school will help prep you for college life and show universities your readiness for a harder curriculum. Also be sure to reach out to activity directors or organizers if you want to do certain extracurriculars like shadowing or internships. And don’t be shy! Worst case scenario, you hear no, which isn’t so bad.

5.Remember the unique experiences you’ve had throughout high school

While you shouldn’t worry about writing your essays until the summer before senior year, you never know when a unique experience will come in handy for your supplementals. So, keep in mind the journeys you embark on throughout high school. And remember the details! After all, detail is always welcome in college essays.

6. Befriend people with similar goals and aspirations

There are all kinds of people in high school, but it’s always a good idea to surround yourself with people with similar goals as you. They don’t necessarily have to have the same dream school as you. But people who are academically motivated can definitely help support you before, during and after college app season.

7. Have fun in high school, but stay focused 

You only get four years in high school, and it is important to enjoy them. However, it is also important to prioritize your studies, especially if you are reaching for a top university. Applying to college is more competitive than ever. (No pressure there)! And because of this, students must remember to aim for good grades and test scores. So when decision time roles around, there’s a little stress as possible.

8. Do your best to avoid excessive stress

Speaking of stress, try not to worry about your college admissions results too much after you’ve already submitted. I definitely made this mistake. Worrying and worrying will not impact the results of your admissions in the slightest. Instead, remain motivated and focus on your goals. After years of hard work, it’s time to sit back and relax.

9. Don’t obsess over one college

Like I said earlier, the college admissions process is extremely competitive. Because of this, top colleges must reject even the most qualified students because there is simply not enough room for every good applicant. Obsessing over one “dream school” is a poor idea, especially if that school is known to be very selective. Instead, consider lots of options with varying acceptance rates. Because then, where you end up doesn’t matter since all of your choices are great ones!

10. Be authentic in your essays and interviews

I used to hate this saying in terms of college apps because I didn’t think it was helpful, but I now realize that this is the best advice you can get. Colleges want to be impressed, but they don’t want applicants who are clearly just trying to impress them. Admissions officers want to see students who are extremely passionate about what they want to study and who are determined to make a difference in the world — no matter how big or small.

So, when writing your essays, be yourself! Ditch the fancy language and resume dumping and instead speak from your heart. Why are you applying to your colleges? Why did you select a certain major? Why do you love your extracurriculars? Make sure your readers learn about the real you — not a college applicant with superficial ideas or goals.

LaVie Saad (she/her), is a rising freshman at Stanford University.

Edited by Amber Ly