Students should start their college search broadly using various resources before narrowing their list. They should speak with counselors about choosing schools that fit their location preferences, size, academics and student life. When choosing a major, students should select something they want as a career and pick a school that allows easy changes. Financial aid and other funding options should be considered based on affordability. Early action/decision is best for top choice schools, while regular decision allows starting essays earlier. Students should establish relationships with teachers who can write strong recommendations and trust counselors for guidance. Grades, trends, passions and leadership are valued more than test scores. Essays should reflect students' authentic voices when started early with feedback. Interviews are for showing

1. Students’ Perspectives

2. College Search Using different resources – college books (Fiske, Princeton Review), CollegeProwler, College Confidential Start broad and then shorten list Speak with your counselors!

3. Choosing Schools Location, size, academics, student life Choose colleges that fit your personality

4. Choosing a Major Choose wisely – know what you want to pursue as a career Undecided – choose a school that lets you switch easily Pre-professional v.s. Liberal Arts

5. Financial Aid Go with what you can afford Find other ways!

6. EA/ED vs RD ED only for first choice EA motivates you to start essays early

7. Recs + Counselor Relationship Let teachers know you well Pick those who will make you sparkle! Trust your Counselor, ask questions Visit your Counselors often

8. GPA Important, but not everything Upward trend Try your best, but don’t lose hope

9. SAT & testing Take them as early as you can Prepare adequately, especially for SAT IIs ACT/TOEFL – know what you need

10. Extracurriculars PASSION + do what you love Quality always > Quantity Initiative + Leadership

11. Essays VOICE Be yourself & know yourself Start early Ask for feedback

12. Interviews Confident, but not cocky Relax. Show what your resume hasn’t already! Prepare questions & know the school

13. Final Words Be mindful of DEADLINES! Depth > Breadth. Take initiative. Be a leader/ BE PASSIONATE - VISIT COUNSELOR FOR EVERYTHING! They're your in-school mommies and daddies.

14. Enjoy High School!

15. Questions?