Planning for Life after High School

 A Presentation for Seniors and Parents

VAHS Gymnasium

September 26, 2016

Advisory Period (9:45-10:10)

Presented by: 

Mary Gratch Consulting

What the options are:

College/University 

Community College

Military

Work

Gap Year 

Where to find information:

On-line searches
Campus visits
Talking to family and friends
Talking with your high school guidance counselor 

When to apply for college:

·         Early Decision – binding - an ED applicant must attend the college

·         Early Action – nonbinding - receive an early response - commit to the college by May 1st

·         Regular Decision - apply by published deadlines, receive an admissions decision by April 1st

·         Rolling Decision - colleges respond as the applications come in instead for a particular deadline

 How to Apply For College

Apply to a wide range of different schools!
Your college list should include approximately 6 to 8 colleges, but there isn't one magic number.
One or two colleges where you feel you'll most likely get in-a 90-100 percent chance. These are usually called safety schools.
Two to four colleges that are overall good "matches" or target schools - a 75 percent chance of getting in. These are colleges that fit academically and socially.
One or two "reach" colleges-a 25 percent or less chance of getting in. These are colleges that present an admissions challenge.

College Essays - Remember to:
Be yourself
Let them know who YOU are
Be creative
Get excited
Make sure you are well researched
Write from the heart
Make sure you answer the question or topic of discussion
Write a couple of different versions and get feedback
Re-write it if you have to
Make sure to have it proof read carefully
Be confident and let them know what a great fit you are