Hi, Reader!

I know there are a lot of mixed messages and uncertainties when it comes to applications:

• When should I submit?
• What do I focus on?
• What should I include (or maybe exclude)?
• Does it matter how I order my activities list?

Although I can't promise to answer all of your application questions here. I do hope these weekly emails help bring some calm and reassurance to the process.

I know one school that often sends out some mixed messages is Texas A&M. So to help clear up the muddy waters, I recently sent an A&M admission officer some of the top questions I get asked, and he graciously answered. Want to know what I learned?

​Check out my new blog post here.​

Want a little taste? Texas A&M considers the top 10.4% of a graduating class as autoadmit — great news for students who are on the bubble.

✅ GRADE-BY-GRADE COLLEGE PLANNING

Whether you're just starting high school or heading into senior year, there are some things every student can be doing (or thinking about) to prepare for college applications. Here are some things to consider.

9th Graders

• ​College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.
• ​Activity Log: Get involved in a couple of clubs, sports or other extracurricular activities either at your school or in your local community. Keep track of your engagement over time on this simple spreadsheet.
• ​Challenge yourself academically: Take advantage of the course offerings, and don’t be afraid to ask about higher-level classes if you aren’t feeling challenged.
• ​How to study effectively: Improve your study skills and build new habits with this low-cost video course from Udemy.
• ​Be careful with your social media use: Any words or pictures you post are part of your permanent online record. If it’s something you wouldn’t want your grandparent to see, maybe don’t post it.

10th Graders

• ​College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.
• ​Study schedule: If you don’t have a plan in place, now is a great time to create one. Use a paper or online tool like The Shovel Study Planner to stay organized and help manage your time.
• Sign up for the PSAT and/or PreACT if your school is offering them this year. These practice tests are a great way to get experience with the content and timing of standardized exams.
• ​Start exploring possible careers: There are so many possibilities out there. What sounds interesting to you? Start with your interests and see where your research takes you.

11th Graders

• ​College App & Admissions Timeline: This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade.
• ​The Shovel Study Planner: Get ready for a very busy fall with this simple, low-cost app for building an effective study plan and developing strong study skills.
• ​PSAT: Sign up to take the exam this fall, even if you took the test as a sophomore. Strong test scores as a junior may qualify you for academic honors, including National Merit as well as programs and recruitment for Black, Latinx, Indigenous, rural, first-generation and low-income students.
• ​Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: Start mapping out a standardized testing plan with the goal of taking the SAT or ACT at least once before the end of the school year.
• ​Connect with college admission reps: Sign up for a few sessions with college representatives when they visit your high school this fall. Also check their websites for information on virtual information sessions and local events.
• ​Paying for College: Use this guide to help figure out which schools are great financial fits for you, how to apply for scholarships and more.

12th Graders

This is a critical time for seniors. By this point, you should (we hope) have a close-to-final college list and be working on your college applications.

• ​Letters of recommendation: This is a good time to check in with your recommenders to make sure they know your deadlines. And if you haven't already, read this guide and then ask your teacher(s) if they’ll write a letter on your behalf.
• ​College applications are live: Start familiarizing yourself with the information you need to gather. Some of the most popular applications include The Common Application, Coalition Application, University of California, Cal State University, ApplyTexas, SUNY, and/or UCAS.
• ​How to fill out the Common Application: Watch this comprehensive walkthrough of every section of the Common App. Get answers to all of your Common App questions in one place!
• ​How to Write a College Essay: Wondering how to get started on your college essays? This step-by-step guide and this video will walk you through the process. Curious to read some examples? Check out these Outstanding Essay Examples.
• Do you identify as undocumented or a member of the LGBTQ+ community? If you’re wondering how much to disclose in your personal statement, these guides might help you map out your content.
• ​How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Get answers to the most common questions and make sure you understand the limitations and the financial implications. ED/EA deadlines fall as early as Oct. 15.
• ​CSS Profile: This financial aid form is required by some schools and scholarships. Submission windows open on Oct. 1. The FAFSA is another form that you must fill out to be considered for financial aid at all colleges, but it won’t open until January.
• ​EOP Application Guide: Educational Opportunity Programs offer extra resources and support to help underresourced students succeed in college. If you’re applying to Cal State Universities, this guide is a must-read.
• ​Connect with college admission reps, either at your school, online, or in your community. These sessions are important opportunities to let colleges know you’re considering attending their institution, which, in some cases, can help your chances.
• ​QuestBridge and Posse Foundation: See if you qualify for these great opportunities to win a full ride to college. If you decide to apply to QuestBridge, this is a must-read.
• ​Create a spreadsheet of scholarship requirements and deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines, number of required recommendation letters, scholarship deadlines, portfolio requirements, etc., all in one organized spot.
• ​Matchlighters Scholars Program: Apply for free expert college counseling support for students from low-income households.

📆 UPCOMING WEBINARS & DEADLINES

See my full calendar here.

✏️ QUICK WRITING TIP

Use the Oxford comma — the comma before "and" or "or" in a list of three or more items. Skip it, and sentences risk getting a little confusing: "I interviewed my parents, Ethan Sawyer and a college dean" reads like Ethan Sawyer and the dean ARE your parents. Add the comma back — "I interviewed my parents, Ethan Sawyer, and a college dean" — and it's instantly clear these are three separate people.

I hope everyone is enjoying the rest of the summer. We have one week left in our household, and then it’s back to the grind of some early mornings. Thank goodness one of our favorite coffee shops just opened a new location nearby … and right on the way to doggie day care. I’m going to need the extra caffeine (and a break from a sweet but needy dog) for sure.

Thanks for joining me each week, and …

Happy Writing!

Julia

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