Text Box: Essex High School Guidance Department Text Box: A college admissions office wants to see more than just high test scores and grades. How can you separate yourself from the crowd? On You Application? Grades and standardized test scores: Extracurricular activities: Quantity doesn’t mean quality. Have you taken a leadership role in your chosen activities? What have you accomplished? Rigorous course schedule: Don’t take classes just to pad your Text Box: GPA. Follow the rules: If an application asks you to choose one essay, don’t answer them all. Read the application directions completely before answering any questions. Include everything: Verify all forms have been signed and that you have included all essays and recommendations. Double check everything before you send it! On-time arrival: Note Text Box: What Are Colleges Looking For? Text Box: The Essay Text Box: Show, don’t tell: Don’t just list your attributes; get specific. For example, saying that you’re helpful is not as dynamic as relating your experiences with helping younger students learn how to read. Creativity counts: Avoid clichés or standard essay topics: No spelling errors: First, spell-check your essay. Then read it again for usage Text Box: mistakes. Have a parent or teacher look it over for spelling and grammar errors. Personality: The application essay is your opportunity to show your prospective college what makes you you. Ask your self whether what you’ve written is memorable, engaging and in Text Box: your own works. Remember that colleges selection is all about matching. Different schools have their own idea regarding the students they want. JUST BE YOURSELF! You can find this article and many more like it at www.fastweb.com “WRITING THE Text Box: November /December 2008 Text Box: Volume 13, Issue 2

The Next Step
Text Box: Some of you will be going straight into the world of work. Once you complete the application and in a lot of cases a personality test, you will be called in for an interview. Here are some things to remember: Arrive early and dress the part: Know where the interview will be held ahead of time so you won’t arrive late. Dress on the conservative and understated side. If you have questions about the dress code, call and ask. Spontaneity, positivism, confidence: Sounding like you're reading off a cue card won’t leave them with a fond memory. It’s good to rehearse, but the interview should be a conversation. Be natural, sure of yourself and optimistic about your future. Come prepared with questions to demonstrate your interest level. Follow up with a thank-you Text Box: November Web Sites Text Box: The Interview Text Box: ED vs. EA

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