Susan Lutz, College Consultant

Seniors, applications are open. It’s game time.

This may be the largest long-term, multistep project you have managed. And…it’s one where you often cannot predict the final outcome. What you can control is your preparation, effort, and quality of work. That begins with a strategy.

First, finalize your college list and decide how you will apply. Early Decision makes sense only if the college is your clear first choice, your family understands the financial commitment, and, ideally, you have visited. Early Action and rolling admission may offer advantages, too. Know the rules and choose intentionally.

Next, identify everything each college requires: supplemental essays, portfolios, auditions, videos, or additional documents. Break the work into smaller tasks and give each one a deadline. October 30 is not a strategy.

While completing applications, do not neglect your classes. Colleges may receive first-quarter or trimester grades, and many will request midyear reports. Your work still matters even when every senior-year “last” competes for your attention.

If you are overwhelmed, ask for help now, not two days before the deadline. Make the plan, do the work, and finish strong. 

You can do this.