Visiting Colleges share Advice for Underclassman
“Colleges and students are constantly changing and growing, don’t narrow your choices down too soon.”
Each year, Kimball Union hosts around 100 college admission representatives. Students meet them, ask questions, and learn about their schools. This powerful opportunity to meet the professionals who will actually read their applications gives KUA students a leg-up on the admissions process. A couple weeks back, we interviewed several reps to get ‘words of wisdom’ for sophomores and juniors who are just beginning to think about the process, as well as helpful tips for parents. Here's what we learned:
How can parents best support their students and what should they expect from this process?
Alison Slater from Denison University acknowledges the stress that comes with the process, for parents and students both, but emphasizes that “they can look at this (process) as something they can enjoy together, the road tripping and exploring.” She also pointed out that stress can be reduced by families “knowing there is no one right answer.” Peter McKay from Lewis & Clark added, “let your student drive the car and lead the process, this may be the first time a student gets a chance to lead their own process, so let them experience that.”
How do you recommend underclassman set themselves up for smoother college process?
McKay reminds students to work with the College Advising Office and making sure all regular check-ins are happening, “they certainly know their stuff.” Our integrated advising program helps students create solid academic habits and a tailored curriculum to give them a strong base to work from. The advising program also provides guidance in helping underclassman get involved early in activities they have genuine passion and talent for, allowing the benefit of the in-depth experience and leadership skills that are attractive on college applications. As Courtney Roach from Trinity College stated, “colleges are looking for a well-rounded class. Students who have real interests that they have been engaged in more deeply is better than a long list of short-lived clubs, activities and sports.”
There are many online organizers families can utilize to help stay on track. Each KUA student gets a Naviance account in their junior year which is the first stop and clearing house of your college activity.
What should students consider when they begin to build the college “list”?
Roach warns not to narrow down choices to soon. Starting a set list before junior year can mean you are not working with the most current information. Weeding a school out too early can be counterproductive. Schools are changing and evolving, and as students become more mature, they often become more focused.
Slater recommends having a guiding principle as one begins to create a list. A geographical region or state, a rural campus or urban environment, or perhaps a particular area of study. These can be helpful guidelines for some, but she concedes, it can be an eclectic mix for others as well.
Searching for the right college can be exciting journey and our College Advising Office is here to help guide you through the process.
