Apply Yourself when Applying to College - Spokane, North Idaho News & Weather KHQ.com

Try to include at least one college that's a sure thing for you in terms of admissions standards and costs. Remember that financial aid could help reduce the cost for students who qualify for admission, but are unable to pay the full cost.

Make sure you check out each college's requirements. Schools require different things when it comes to applying. Each will have its own deadlines, fees, and required steps. Some schools ask for interviews, essays and personal references, in addition to applications and test scores.

Apply as early as possible. Let your school guidance counselor know well ahead of time if you need transcripts. Also, let the people writing letters of reference know the deadline for their letters.

Quick tips for writing the college admissions essay:

• Make sure the essay is logical and well-written.
  
• Check all the grammar and spelling carefully.
  
• Be yourself. Colleges are most concerned with whether you can form and express your thoughts well.
  
• Understand the writing requirements and expectations. Ask if you’re not sure.
  
• Relax. Realize that the essay is just one factor colleges consider for admission.

Interview tips:

• Prepare. Write down questions to ask. Think of answers for questions that may be asked of you.
  
• Do research on the college. Listen and relax. Think of the interview as a conversation. Pay attention to what is being said and respond accordingly. Ask questions, but realize the interview is a two-way discussion
  
• Be honest. Let the admissions officers see "the real you." That's the best way to figure out if you will adapt well to the college's environment and academic expectations.
  
• Make Eye contact. Eye contact tells the interviewer that you are sure of yourself, you're interested in what he/she has to say and you're serious about the interview.
  
• Promote yourself. Don't be afraid to talk about the things you're good at. You can tell about your talents without bragging.
  
• Act natural. Admissions people know what 17- and 18-year-olds are like, so be yourself. They know when you use words you don't normally use or when you are trying to be something you aren't.
  
• Enjoy yourself. As crazy as this may seem, the college interviewing experience can be fun. You're meeting new people, finding out about a place that may be your home for the next four years and preparing to enter a new, exciting stage in your life.

Source: ACT, Inc.