Tampa Prep College Counseling Guide

COLLEGE COUNSELING

From the College Counseling Office at Tampa Prep

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tampaprep.org/college

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this reference is to provide you with information to guide you through the college admission process. This process takes a lot of planning, decision making and specific steps to reach your goal. As part of your upper school experience, allow time to plan, explore and execute your options. We hope that

TABLE OF CONTENTS

through your four-year involvement with our office, and the use of this book as an aid, you will easily navigate the college admission process.

It is important to remember you will have a lot of choices and paths to reach your goals. Making dreams a

Meet Your College Counselors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Roles & Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 College Admission Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Testing Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 College Planning Timeline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Narrowing your College Choices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

reality is not luck. Your motivation and hard work are the most important elements in reaching your goals.

Good luck!

Planning Campus Visits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sample Questions to Ask During College Visits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sample Questions for Student Athletes to Ask. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Application Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

PROUD MEMBER OF:

Factors in College Admission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Tips, Hints, and Suggestions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 The Essay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 College Interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Sample Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Admission Decision Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 College Checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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meet your COLLEGE COUNSELORS

Cheryl Leonhardt

Director of College Counseling cleonhardt@tampaprep.org 813-251-8481 x4040

Kristin Grosso

Aaron Turner

Jody Rodriguez

Assistant Director of College Counseling krgrosso@tampaprep.org 813-251-8481 x4030

Assistant Director of College Counseling aturner@tampaprep.org 813-251-8481 x4097

Registrar and Assistant to College Counseling jrodriguez@tampaprep.org 813-251-8481 x4022

Common courtesies to help the college search journey go more smoothly . . .

RESPECT PEOPLE’S PRIVACY. Not everyone wants to share their test scores, where

they are applying, or their admission decisions. Despite your excitement, please refrain from bragging, and don’t pry information out of others.

DO NOT DENIGRATE COLLEGES. The college you wouldn’t dream of considering

may be someone else’s first choice. Similarly, the college you visited and didn’t like may be a perfect fit for someone else.

BE SENSITIVE. The day you get into your dream college may be the day that one of your classmates has just been denied by his or hers. Or the day you’re ecstatic about your SAT scores may be the same day that a classmate is devastated by hers or his.

PLEASE NOTE: Our office policy is not to share with others where you’ve applied or your admission decisions, other than stating at the end of the process where you’ve decided to matriculate. This also means we can’t tell you who has applied to a given college, or the outcome.

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roles & RESPONSIBILITIES STUDENTS • Know college deadlines and special requirements.

• Keep your parents informed about your college search.

• Be open and honest with your College Counselor, keeping her/him updated on new developments via email, phone or by just dropping by the office.

• Meet in-house application deadlines (included in this guide).

• Request transcripts via SCOIR to the College Counseling Office at least two weeks prior to your college’s application deadline.

• Apply to at least one “likely” college where you know you will

PARENTS • Support and encourage your child, offering advice and guidance when appropriate.

• Encourage your son or daughter to use the Tampa Prep College Counseling Guide and SCOIR. • Avoid pushing or forcing your preferences or biases regarding college choices onto your son or daughter.

It is important to remember it is, as much as possible, a student decision.

• Be open to new ideas, suggestions and even “unknown” colleges.

• Help your student understand there is more than one

be happy in case you are not offered admission to your

college which is appropriate for him/her and where s/he

other choices.

can be happy.

• Work hard and do your best in your academic subjects.

• Give teachers at least one month to write letters of recommendation by providing them with the Teacher

• Encourage your child to explore many choices early rather than looking for the one “right college” too soon.

• Support an ethical approach to the college admission

Recommendation form available in the College

process. Students are expected to complete their own

Counseling office. Also make your request in SCOIR.

applications. Hiring someone to type or rewrite essays is

• Proofread your college essays. Teachers and your college

unprofessional and unethical. It is our responsibility to

counselor will help with your essay in draft form well before

notify colleges if we know that students’ work is not their

the deadline, but will not make changes or rewrite for you.

own. to which Prep students apply.

• The College Counseling Office lends perspective to any disciplinary incidents that must be reported to the colleges.

• The College Counselors may not have all the answers, but

COLLEGE COUNSELING • The college counselor is accessible to both parents and students. S/he will be there to guide, counsel and advise students. S/he, however, will not tell students where they cannot apply or where they should enroll.

• The College Counselor will write a comprehensive,

their experience enables them to better understand what is important to the colleges and to guide students through the process and present themselves in the best possible manner to the appropriate colleges.

• As long as the student meets our deadline, the College Counseling Office will send on time and electronically via a secure system any application materials required.

honest and positive descriptive statement for each

The packet typically includes:

student on behalf of Tampa Prep by collecting information

* Transcript of courses and grades

from teachers, advisors, parents, students and from her/his

* Senior courses

own personal observations.

* Counselor recommendation/Secondary School Report

• The College Counselor continues to develop professional relationships with the admissions officers at the colleges page 3

(when required) * Fall term grades (when available) * Tampa Preparatory School Profile

college admission TESTING PSAT The PSAT is administered at Tampa Prep to freshmen, sophomores and juniors in October each year. Typically, each year scores improve, and the junior year scores will be a good predictor of SAT scores.

The purpose of the exam for freshmen and sophomores is to enable students to practice for the SAT and get a feel for what the exam involves. The PSAT measures verbal, written English and mathematical reasoning skills that are important to colleges. All students are automatically enrolled for the PSAT administered at Tampa Prep in October.

For juniors, the PSAT enables them to practice for the SAT and also is used to determine whether or not a student will qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The junior PSAT is also called the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). Colleges do not receive PSAT scores to use for admission purposes.

SAT REASONING TEST The SAT is a test that measures verbal, writing and mathematical reasoning skills. A student receives the following scores from the SAT: Evidence Based Reading and Writing, Math. Scores are based on a 200-800 scale. Colleges use the SAT score when considering students for admission. The essay is optional; however, students should elect to take this section at least once until they know the requirements of the colleges to which they will apply.

Juniors are advised to take the SAT in the spring. Most Tampa Prep juniors take the SAT in March, May or June. Once a student enters the senior year, he or she may take the SAT again the first semester. Students are responsible for registering themselves for the SAT. Registration is done online at www.collegeboard.com.

SAT SUBJECT TESTS SAT Subject Tests are one-hour tests that measure a student’s knowledge of particular subjects. Subject tests are available in the following areas: Literature, Mathematics, Foreign Language, History and Science. Some selective colleges request students to submit SAT Subject Test scores as part of the admissions process. Students take SAT Subject Tests May or June of their junior year. If necessary, seniors will take additional tests in October and November.

The SAT Subject Tests are scored on a scale of 200-800 like the SAT. It is the student’s responsibility to register for the SAT Subject Tests.

ACT The ACT is another standardized test that is used for college entrance. Colleges and universities will accept the SAT or ACT as part of their evaluation process. The ACT is an exam that tests students in five areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science Reasoning and Writing. The fifth area, the essay, is optional; however, students should elect to take this section at least once until they know the requirements of the colleges to which they will apply. Students receive a sub-score for each area graded on a scale of 1-36, and a composite score which is the average of the sub-scores. The composite score is the score used for college admission. Tampa Prep students are encouraged to take the ACT at least once, usually in spring of the junior year or fall of the senior year. It is the student’s responsibility to register for the ACT Exam at ACTstudent.org.

PREPARATION FOR STANDARDIZED TESTING The best preparation for standardized testing is to take the most challenging courses available throughout high school and strive to do your best. Developing excellent study skills helps provide a solid base of knowledge and preparation for testing.All upper school students will have the opportunity to formally practice both the ACT and SAT annually.

Juniors will attend one-hour SAT prep classes once a week for eight weeks prior to the March SAT. Practice SAT and ACT tests are also available on the computers in the Peifer Library.

Questions regarding standardized testing should be directed to the College Counseling Office. page 4

testing sign-up TIPS USE EXACTLY THE SAME NAME ON EACH SCORE

SENDING REPORTS TO COLLEGES: As a senior, have

REPORT. Using different names or initials will give you

your scores sent directly from the College Board or ACT.

two or more files with the testing programs, creating

You may decide to send only one set of scores or send

confusion with the colleges. Use the same name and

all of them depending on what your college(s) require.

address for tests and applications.

Most colleges recommend you send all of your scores.

This will be noted on the testing website when you

UPLOAD A PHOTO OF YOURSELF FOR I.D. PURPOSES.

send your scores. It is your responsibility to send your

Be sure to follow the guidelines for photo uploads

score(s) to your colleges by way of your online account

listed on the SAT and ACT website, otherwise, you will

with Collegeboard.com or ACTstudent.org.

not be admitted to the test.

YOU MUST REGISTER ONLINE BY THE DEADLINE or USE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER AND TAMPA

you will have to pay a late fee.

PREP CEEB CODE 101-729 on all forms and applications for identification purposes.

TAKING THE TEST: Tests are administered at Tampa Prep on most testing dates. Check your ticket for the

The STUDENT DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONNAIRE is op-

test center location. Sign up early. Bring several #2

tional, but can be a good source of information about

pencils, a calculator, a photo ID and your registration

colleges.

ticket to the center.

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the JOURNEY A seasonal timeline for Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors

SOPHOMORES

JUNIORS

FALL

FALL

Meet with your College Counselor to establish a connection.

Continue to explore your passions.

Take the PSAT in October/November.

Meet with your College Counselor to strategize an approach.

Discover a new club, hobby or extracurricular activity that truly interests you.

Make a list of the types of colleges and criteria that best meet your current needs and interests.

Familiarize yourself with the many resources in the College Counseling Office, the library and online.

Begin to research schools that meet your criteria using your school’s resources.

Begin your college exploration by attending a College Fair.

Meet with college admission officers who visit your school.

SPRING

Take the PSAT in October/November. This test serves as the basis for National Merit Scholarship recognition.

Attend the spring NACAC College Fair held in Tampa.

Visit college campuses to begin to identify the type of school you seek.

Attend a College Fair in October.

Meet again with your College Counselor to discuss junior year course selection.

Take leadership roles within the activities that are most important to you.

SUMMER

WINTER

Do something interesting. Explore a new interest, try something different, develop a passion! For example, find a summer job, explore an area of interest by setting up an internship, participate in a summer program on a college campus in a different region of the country, go to a specialized camp for music, art or athletics, explore an academic interest by doing some independent research, or initiate a community service opportunity.

Register to take the Spring SAT and ACT (6 weeks in advance of test date).

Take the SAT and ACT practice tests on your computer or online through Collegeboard.com or ACTstudent. org. Familiarize yourself with these tests—PRACTICE HELPS!

Register for, attend and participate in the Tampa Bay Case Studies program held every January for juniors and their parents.

SPRING Meet again with your College Counselor to discuss

READ! Continue or start your community service hours work for The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship.

senior year course selection. Establish a list of schools that interest you and meet your criteria.

Visit colleges, making appointments for tours and interviews, and communicate with our specific reps if applicable.

Take the SAT and ACT.

Register for a SAT Subject Test if your colleges recommends or requires it. Plan to take it in either May or June, as AP classes are the most effective preparation.

You will begin to receive many college brochures and emails. Take the time to read the college literature sent to you. This is a good way to further develop your list of schools.

Go online to explore college and university websites.

Take a virtual tour of a college campus, read the mission statement, send an email to a current student or professor. Does the college have its application online?

Check it out. What are the essay topics?

junior year FOCUS While most colleges consider several criteria in the admission process, the number one criterion is the academic record. While they look at and evaluate your entire record, the performance in your junior year and first semester senior year is very important. While a junior year will not erase a weaker 9th and 10th grade performance, it will show a trend which, if continued into the senior year, will open doors at many colleges. Conversely, a weak junior and senior year may close many doors.

RULE OF THUMB. Take as challenging a curriculum as you can handle successfully. Colleges would prefer to have a student take the harder class and earn a B than opt for the easy A. Students who play it safe to protect their GPA are often not the ones who will grow the most intellectually. Colleges love to see students whose reach exceeds their grasp.

SUMMER

YOUR APPROACH TO LEARNING. Among applicants

Once again, explore a passion, an internship, summer academic course work, camp or travel.

Visit college campuses, keeping in mind the campus community and environment may be quite different during the summer.

Begin to work on college essays. For example, draft a response to the Common Applicaiton essay prompt.

Update your personal resume.

with similar records, colleges prefer students who: • Show a genuine interest in the material • Participate in class • Risk new ideas • Go beyond minimal requirements • Confront weaknesses • Take responsibility seriously These characteristics will be communicated in your teacher and counselor recommendations and they are part of what distinguishes your application. Big buzzwords in college admissions include intellectual engagement,

Complete your Common Application and/or Coalition Application. You can do this before you even know where you want to apply!

original or creative thinking, academic challenge and initiative going beyond expectations as well as dedication and persistence.

MAINTAIN EXTRACURRICULAR, AND PURSUE LEADERSHIP INVOLVEMENT. Most colleges prefer to admit students who have been active members of their school communities, although exactly what you have done is far less important. An in-depth, continued focus on a few activities, where you’ve reached considerable expertise and/ or leadership is preferred to a long list of superficial and/ or ever-changing commitments. In particular, colleges are always on the lookout for initiative.

SENIORS FALL Meet with your College Counselor to finalize the list of colleges to which you will apply. In addition to several optimistic/solid schools and a stretch school, be certain you have at least one likely school on your list (financially likely as well as academically likely).

Continue to visit colleges. Spend a night in a residence hall, attend classes, talk to students, meet with a professor and eat in a dining hall.

Attend evening programs and receptions in Tampa that are hosted by colleges on your list. This is a good way to meet local alumni as well as college admission representatives.

Check merit scholarship deadlines!

In October or early November, submit applications to early decision and rolling admission institutions. Contact your recommendation writers and your College Counselor about filling out the appropriate forms and having your official transcripts sent.

Be sure to allow ample time for teachers to write recommendations. One month prior to the deadline is recommended. Please give your teacher a copy of your resume so they may reference it when writing your recommendation.

Register for the SAT, SAT Subject Tests and/or ACT.

Take the SAT and/or ACT again. Remember, colleges will always take the highest SAT score regardless of how many times you take the test. Some, not all, colleges “superscore� the ACT. We recommend you take no more than three SAT or ACT tests.

It is your responsibility to send your official test scores to the schools to which you are applying from your SAT and/or ACT accounts. Many colleges allow students to self report test scores. We recommend you confirm with each college how they need to receive your test scores.

If applying for financial aid, complete the FAFSA for federal financial aid and the CSS Profile (if required).

Both forms are available in October. Check all deadlines carefully.

WINTER

Finish your applications. Most institutions will have a final application deadline sometime during the month of January. College application lists and transcript requests should be submitted to your College Counseling Office no later than December 1.

Relax and enjoy your senior year as you wait to hear the decisions from colleges.

SPRING Respond to college offers of admission and/or scholarships. Notify the college or school you are planning to attend as well as those to which you were accepted but will not be attending by May 1.

If you are placed on the waiting list of a college that is your top choice, be sure to write a letter telling them they are your first choice school. Please let your College Counselor know as well so s/he can advocate for you. Most colleges will wait until after May 1 to determine if they will be going to the waiting list. Therefore, it is crucial you send a deposit to one of the schools where you have been accepted.

Attend spring admitted student programs on college campuses or arrange an individual campus visit. This will assist you with your final college choice.

Complete your community service hours for Bright Futures and take AP exams in May. Tell your College Counselor which college you are planning to attend. Your final transcript will be sent to your college in June.

CONGRATULATE YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY--YOU MADE IT!

NARROWING YOUR COLLEGE CHOICES There are many factors which may influence your college choices. After looking at yourself, ask yourself questions that will help you decide what type of college will best meet your personal needs and interests. The questions below may help.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT • Size (total enrollment, number of freshmen, % of • • • •

undergraduate and graduate students) Residential or commuter (% who live on campus, off campus, at home) Background (geographic, ethnic, racial, malefemale ratio, religious and percentage receiving financial aid awards) Conservative or liberal Retention rate (% of students who finish their freshman year; % who graduate in four or five years)

COLLEGE TYPE AND PHILOSOPHY • Public or private • Liberal arts or specialized (Business, Engineering, • • •

Nursing, Arts, Professional, Technical) College (undergraduate) or University (has graduate programs) Religious affiliation (does it matter to you?)

Traditional, experimental, deeply scholarly or career- centered

LOCATION • Large city, small city, college town or rural • Urban or suburban • Distance from home • Climate • Proximity to recreational areas • Attractiveness of campus and surroundings • Travel costs and convenience FACULTY • Percentage with a Ph.D • Student-faculty ratio • Emphasis on research or teaching • Faculty advisors • % of classes taught by graduate assistants or • • • •

teaching assistants Faculty involvement in student life Number of office hours per week Opportunities for discussion and ideas Opportunities for undergrad research with a professor

ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENT • Academic demands (workload, course expectation, laid back or pressure cooker?)

• Strengths of specific departments • Honors programs

• Core and requirements • Size of classes (freshman lecture courses, seminars, • • • •

and upperclass courses) Student attitude toward learning Interest in political, social or world issues Percentage of those who go on to graduate and professional schools Job placement

CAMPUS AND STUDENT LIFE • Diversity and tolerance of differences • Honor system • Liberal/directive/restrictive social regulations • Percentage living on and off campus • Types of residential halls (coed, single gender, • • • • • •

doubles, singles, suites, separate dorms for freshman) Types of meal plans Greek system Community service opportunities Athletics and fine arts Presence of religious, ethnic or cultural groups Organizations (newspaper, radio station, music groups and clubs)

COST AND FINANCIAL AID • Student budget for tuition and fees, room and • • •

board, books and personal expenses, including travel costs Range of financial aid awards, average awards Need-based or merit awards Other financing options

FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENT ADMISSIBILITY Applicant Statistics: • Total number of applicants for the year • Total number of spaces available in the freshman class • % of applicants the college can offer admission • % who elect to attend Average Test Scores, GPA, Class Rank: • The middle 50% or median range of SAT or ACT scores of accepted students • Middle 50% GPA of admitted students Percent of Out-of-State Students: Percentage of students from outside the institution’s state (a low percentage works in your favor at a private college; at a selective state university, it can work against you)

planning CAMPUS VISITS

1. Plan ahead and make an appointment.

2. Ask the admission office what they offer for prospective students: • campus tours • group information session • opportunities to sit in on classes • overnight visits in the residence hall with a host student • meeting with a professor • a meal in the dining hall 3. Admission Interviews: • Schedule one if they are offered during your visit.

• Ask: admission committee member or student?

• If the college does not conduct interviews, do they offer alumni interviews in the Tampa area?

4. Does the admission office have a special fall open house planned? If so, when is it and how is it different from an individual campus visit?

5. After considering the above options, schedule your visit. Remember—you want to see more than just the admission office and the tour guide!

6. Get directions and ask about parking as some colleges require special permits or parking areas for visitors.

7. Dress appropriately i.e. Tampa Prep dress code and comfortable shoes for walking tour.

8. Try the food.

9. See a residence hall.

10. Look around and really observe.

11. Disregard the weather.

12. Understand that your tour guide is one example of the student body.

13. Ask yourself: “Could I spend the next four years of my life here?”

14. Before you leave, make sure all your questions have been answered by students, faculty and staff.

QUESTIONS TO ASK During college interviews and information sessions most admission officers will give you a chance to ask questions. It is important to have some questions in mind to ask. When admission officers visit Tampa Prep, listen attentively and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Schools tend to blend together when you’re learning about so many, so take notes.

1. What academic programs are most popular?

2. I’m interested in _____; what does your school offer in that area?

3. Are classes taught by full professors or do you have teaching assistants?

4. Is teaching or research the emphasis of your institution?

5. Are most classes structured as lectures or discussions?

6. If you could change something about your school, what would it be?

7. Do you have an honor code? Does it truly work and why?

8. What is the nature of academic pressure?

9. What are the three most common complaints heard from students over the past year and what is being done to address these complaints?

10. Do most students live on campus?

11. Describe the residence halls and their different options.

12. Describe the support systems and programs for students.

13. What makes _____ distinctive from other schools of its size and caliber?

14. What was your acceptance rate last year?

15. Please give a profile of the freshman class.

16. Do you have merit based scholarships? If so, how do I apply?

17. What’s the ethnic breakdown of your student body?

18. Do you have special customs or traditions on campus?

Questions to ask CURRENT STUDENTS 1. Why did you choose____________?

2. What would you change about the college?

3. What would you fight to keep unchanged at your college?

4. What are the major campus issues?

5. Have you been challenged in your coursework?

6. What do students do on the weekend?

7. How effective is the faculty advising system?

8. How is the relationship between the students and the surrounding community?

9. How important is the Greek system?

10. Does the student body have a voice in the university?

11. Have you ever met the college president?

12. If you had to select a college from the start, would you make the same choice?

13. How many years will it take to earn your degree?

Questions for STUDENT ATHLETES to Ask THE SPORTS PROGRAM

CAMPUS LIFE

• • • • • • • • •

• Do athletes have separate housing or specialized housing?

• If athletes come to campus early for pre-season training, where do they live?

• Do athletes have special dining hours? Are dining hours extended if athletes have late practices or games?

• Do athletes have to live on campus?

• Is it possible to study abroad as a student athlete? If so, when? For a semester? Over the summer? For a shorter period of time?

• How easily can I involve myself in other extracurricular activities?

• Can I play another sport?

• • • • • • • • • • •

• • •

How often do freshmen play?

What role do you see me playing on this team?

How strong of a player would I be on your team?

What are skills I need to work on as an athlete?

How long is the coach’s contract at the school?

Do you redshirt freshmen?

Do you redshirt injured players?

How many other recruits are on your list this year?

How many other players do you have on the team at my position?

Would you want me to play my position or would you have me switch my position?

How many players are in your program?

How many returning starters do you have?

Could you describe the off-season training program and commitments?

Do all members of the team travel to away games?

How many students are on scholarship? How many students are not on scholarship?

What is your in-season practice and conditioning schedule?

How much support does this program receive from the college/university’s athletic program?

What is the time commitment for travel in-season?

Can students “walk-on”?

What kind of budgetary support does the program receive from the athletic department? How much would I be responsible for?

What is a typical day for one of the players in-season and out-of-season?

What are your goals for the program?

What is your coaching philosophy?

ACADEMICS • How do I pick my classes? Who helps me to pick classes?

• How often do students take summer classes to make up time from the academic year?

• Are there any majors that are easier or harder to choose as a student-athlete?

• Where do I go to get help if I have difficulty academically?

• Do professors understand if I have to miss class for a game or tournament?

• Does the coach keep tabs on the team members’ academic performance?

• Does the team or the athletic department offering tutoring or study tables?

• Do players in my sports program tend to graduate in four years?

• How often will I miss class because of my sports commitment?

• What is the coach’s perspective on academics?

• How successful are the other student-athletes in this program?

FINANCIAL AID • How many scholarships does your program offer?

• If I am offered a scholarship, will the scholarship amount stay constant and/or be renewed?

• What costs does a scholarship to your college cover?

• Can I work while on campus?

• If an athlete gets hurt, what happens to his scholarship money?

• Is there any financial assistance for summer school?

• If the college doesn’t provide merit/athletic scholarships, how does the financial aid office award financial aid?

• Would my family qualify for aid?

• Can my family get an early read on our financial aid package?

• Are need-based financial aid packages renewed each year?

THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS • Will you support me in the admissions process?

• Has the admissions office seen my application materials and given any sort of feedback?

• Are there things I can do to strengthen my application?

• How many other students is the coach supporting?

• Where do I fall on the coach’s list?

• How often does the admissions office listen to the coach’s suggestions?

• Will the coach support me in the admissions office if I have not made a firm commitment?

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONSULT NCAA www.ncaastudent.org NCAA Eligibility Center www. ncaaeligibilitycenter.org NAIA www.naia.org Adapted from counseling resources at Middlesex School and Hathaway Brown

THE

APPLICATION PROCESS

NARROWING YOUR COLLEGE LIST In the fall of your senior year you will narrow your list of college choices to choose the schools to which you will apply. If you have done your research and have visited as many schools as you can, the process of narrowing your list should be fairly easy. There is no magic number of applications to submit. However, it is important you have among your list three different categories: a likely school, a mid-range school and a stretch.

1

LIKELY SCHOOL (1-2 in this category)

You should have an “academically likely” as well as a “financially likely” choice. A likely school is a school where you have more than a 50% chance of being offered admission. This school may not be your first choice, but it needs to be a place where you will be happy in case it turns out it is your only choice.

Make sure you truly like your likely school.

2

MID-RANGE (3 or so in this category)

These may be the most appropriate matches for you. College choices under this category are ones that your SAT/ACT and GPA closely match the medians of the freshman class. You have a 50/50 chance of being admitted. While your statistics may match the school’s statistics, it is important to remember that each applicant pool is different. In addition, some schools may become slightly more or less selective in any given year. Finally, admission offices will look beyond your numbers to shape a class.

3

STRETCH SCHOOL (1-2 in this category)

Stretch schools are those that have GPA and median SAT/ACT scores higher than yours.

They are also schools where your median statistics may match their profile, but they admit a small percentage of the applicant pool. Subjective elements of the application, i.e., leadership, athletics, special talents, recommendations and essays become very important. Although you may have less than a 50% chance of being admitted, it is not wrong to set high goals and apply to a reach school. However, it is important to remember that you do have to be realistic. If you approach the reach schools in this manner and do not have your heart set on being admitted, you can then rejoice if you are admitted, but not feel devastated if you are not.

FACTORS IN

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS: ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT The transcript is the single most important record of the quality of work done in high school. Colleges have found that there is a strong correlation between the secondary school record and the work done in college. Therefore, they look for a student who has taken a challenging program.

PERSONAL APPLICATION The application supplies the basic information about the student, thus it’s important that it be completed accurately, completely and neatly. A well-prepared application reads easily among the thousands admissions officers must read. A poorly prepared application also stands out and indicates an inefficient person or lack of interest in the institution.

STANDARDIZED TESTS: SAT, SAT SUBJECT TESTS, ACT Most colleges require some form of testing. For a list of colleges that are test optional, go to www.fairtest.org.

Testing is considered for scholarships in some schools, so pay attention to levels.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Colleges are interested in quality over quantity of your non-academic contributions and experiences. They also want students who look beyond school life and contribute to the community. They want to know your level of competence and interest in an activity whether it is athletics, the arts, community service, or an after school job.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Every college and university has their own process for evaluating applicants for admission. The following factors may be part of the decision process . . .

A college counselor and at least one teacher recommendation are standard at most colleges. They want to know about your willingness to persevere, to get help when work is difficult, your ability to write, your intellectual curiosity, your engagement in classes, and academic honesty.

THE ESSAY Most colleges require a personal statement or essay.

Many selective schools place a great deal of emphasis on an applicant’s writing skills, responses to short answer questions and what an applicant chooses to write about in his/her personal statement. This is a chance for you to share a part of your personal history that does not come across in the general information on the application. Be yourself and let the colleges know that you have an active mind and think about issues. Use your own voice and show, rather than tell.

PERSONAL INTERVIEWS Many colleges are no longer using the interview as part of the selection process; however, if a college offers interviews, schedule one. This is an opportunity to give the admissions committee a chance to know you better. Level of interest in the college, maturity, academic/social fit and communications skills are often factors that are gauged in college interviews.

SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS Students pursuing majors in art, photography, music, drama or architecture are usually required to submit a portfolio or audition. Performance is a very important factor in the admission process for these majors.

TIPS, HINTS & SUGGESTIONS TO KEEP YOU SANE THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS

REMEMBER YOUR LOGIN INFO It’s very important to remember your login information to your online application accounts. Use the same password if possible and save them on your iPad for easy reference.

We also recommend using your Tampa Prep email for all application materials.

GIVE 4+ WEEKS TO THOSE WRITING YOUR RECS Give your recommendation writers plenty of time to write their recommendations for you--about 4 weeks before the application deadline. In addition, give your teacher the blue Request for Teacher Letters of Recommendation Form and make the request in SCOIR.

ESSAY, ESSAY, ESSAY Allow yourself plenty of time for writing and proofing your essays. Have someone (like your college counselor) proofread them for grammar and content before you submit your application. If you are using the same essay for two or more different colleges and you use the college name in the essay, be sure to change the college name. You do not want to tell Davidson why you always wanted to go to Harvard!

GOT QUESTIONS? If you have questions about essays or anything in general at a specific school, call or email the admission officer representing Florida. Get to know that person. He or she will be your advocate to the admissions committee. Also, get to know your College Counselor. S/he serves as your advisor and can only do this to the extent that she knows you. Don’t feel like you are bothering her with questions or requests. S/he is here to help!

YAY FOR CHECKLISTS! Make use of the checklist on page 20 to keep you organized. When you are applying to a number of schools simultaneously it is often hard to remember when or if you sent things. The checklist will help.

COMMUNICATE & ORGANIZE Communicate regularly with your parents. They are an important part of the process. ORGANIZE. ORGANIZE. ORGANIZE. Then go back and thank you parents often for all their support and love! page 14

the ESSAY WHAT SHOULD I WRITE ABOUT? Essays should provide new information not already stated in your application.

Pretend you are sitting with the admissions committee while they are reading your application. What kinds of things would you like them to know about you before they make their admission decision?

Remember, colleges are becoming more and more selective. Admission committees are looking for students who are inquisitive scholars, good friends, globally conscious, capable leaders, talented, community oriented, and caring members of their families. They appreciate initiative, curiosity, positive risk taking, and commitment. Use one of these descriptors, or think of one that is uniquely you, and begin writing. Your essay can take flight from one solid idea.

This is your chance to let the admission committee know who you are. It is most effective to show growth or a change of heart. It’s fine to admit you are not perfect; in fact, admitting some faults (especially if you have worked through them) can make you seem more genuine and appealing. Be sure, however, that your negatives turn into at least relative positives by the end of the essay.

Don’t oversell. While essays are, in a sense, marketing, they are also an opportunity for honest reflection. When you illuminate positive traits, do so by illustration, not statement. (Remember: show, don’t tell) Nearly all topics are fine. Avoid those that might make you appear to be close-minded, judgmental or bitter.

Many fine essays start with negatives and then develop into a positive outcome or metamorphosis.

Allow time. Reflection, brainstorming, drafting, putting aside, redrafting, and proof reading are all parts of the process. Don’t shortchange yourself by waiting until the last minute. Colleges assume your essays represent the finest writing you can do!

3 DOs AND DON’Ts for EFFECTIVE COLLEGE ESSAYS DO

1. Answer the question, understand the purpose of the essay, consider your audience.

2. Reflect on the meaning of your story. Tell a story only you can tell, and tell it in your own voice.

3. Write about the specific rather than the general, the concrete rather than the abstract.

DON’T

1. Don’t insult your reader’s intelligence, either by turning your essay into a “resume in prose” or attempting to explain away some shortcoming.

2. Don’t attempt gimmicks of any kind.

3. Don’t exceed the suggested length. For most applications, about five paragraphs should do it.

the INTERVIEW • • •

• • • •

Some colleges encourage you to interview on campus before the application deadline while others give no interviews on campus but offer off-campus or alumni interviews once you have applied.

Do the research to know who offers what and exactly what is expected of you.

Interviews are never really “optional.” If they are offered, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage if you opt out.

If you simply cannot visit a college to which you plan to apply, let the admission office know that you would like an alumni interview close to your home or a Skype session with an admissions officer or current student.

Be cautious of the interviewer who insists they have influence over the decision on your application or the admission committee. This is not true; the process isn’t that simple.

While the college interview may not help your application, it can hurt your application if you’re not prepared.

Some interviews are thought provoking, intellectual exchanges. Others are superficial and may feel more like a sales promotion for the college than an opportunity for the interviewer to get to know you.

Colleges are impressed with courtesy, curiosity, humor, self-awareness, and good listening skills. Don’t think you have to dazzle them; just be prepared and be yourself… if you are worried about being nervous and drawing a blank, bring a notebook with questions.

PREPARATION • • • • • • • • • • • •

Read materials about the college you are visiting, from the website and brochures to the student newspaper.

Make sure a college you plan to visit has the academic programs and extracurricular activities that are important to you.

While you don’t have to know what your major will be, academic interests can promote conversation.

Schedule an appointment well in advance, especially for summer interviews.

Clarify ahead of time with your parent(s) the role you would like them to play.

Know whether the interview is “evaluative” or “informational”, who is likely to interview you (member of the admissions committee, student intern, or faculty member), and how long it will last.

When possible, tour before your interview.

Plan your clothes; be comfortable. Tampa Prep dress code is appropriate for general college interviews.

Be sure that you are not hungry, hot or angry before your interview.

Bring a notepad with your key questions and don’t hesitate to pull it out during the interview.

Think ahead to when the interview is over. What do you want the interviewer to have learned about you?

What is the impression you hope to have made? How do you plan on communicating this?

GETTING OFF TO A GOOD START • • •

When you enter the admission office, go to the front desk and introduce yourself. This is your job, not your parent(s)’.

When the interviewer comes out and calls your name, stand up and greet him or her with a handshake and a smile.

Introduce your parents or siblings if they are with you.

THE INTERVIEW ITSELF • • • • • •

Be prepared to speak about yourself and Tampa Prep. The interviewer may or may not know too much about Tampa Prep.

Ask the interviewer if s/he is the admission office liaison to Tampa Prep. Will s/he be the person who visits Tampa Prep in the fall? Will s/he eventually read your application?

Be prepared to ask questions about the college that are not readily answered on the website.

Focus not on the features of the college but on the college’s potential benefits to you.

You don’t need to know exactly what you will major in, but be prepared to talk your academic interests and what you are looking forward to studying.

Remember good posture and appropriate eye contact.

• • • • • • •

Avoid using a lot of teenage slang. Never use words that might be okay with a peer but offensive to an adult, even if the interviewer is a student at the college. Avoid filler words such as “like” and “thing”.

Take time to think before you answer questions. Silence is okay, as is asking for a moment to form your response.

Be inquisitive; you can respond to a question with a question.

Don’t hesitate to ask the interviewer what controversial issues are being talked about on campus or what s/he would change at the college.

Ask how the admissions office makes decisions and what is truly valued in the admission process.

Ask for advice as to how to best represent yourself in your application.

Get your interviewer’s business card with email address. Ask if s/he will be there throughout your senior year.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW • • •

Make quick notes about the interview and interviewer so you remember later what went on. You will have trouble remembering if you don’t.

Write a short note to your interviewer thanking him or her. In the note include a reference to something specific from the interview. If you have a question that was not answered, include it in the note.

Stay in touch with your interviewer during your senior year; developing a polite relationship can be helpful later in the process.

Adapted from Westtown School’s “Interview Tips” (April 2013)

SAMPLE RESUME

Susie M. Smith

EDUCATION

Address Here City, State, ZIP Phone number Tampa Prep EMAIL address

Tampa Preparatory School, Class of 20__

Humanities Concentration Optional: Include a few of your favorite classes, projects, etc.

Tampa, Florida

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Peer Mentor Program Mentor • Selected from 100 applicants to facilitate 9th grade students' transition to high school.

• Serve as mentor for one advisory of 11 students, meeting twice monthly to discuss high school concerns.

• Organized and led team-building activities on 3-day freshman retreat.

Art Club Member (9-10), Vice-President (11), Co-President (12) • Promote the study and enjoyment of visual arts throughout the school.

• Organize art show to display work of student artists, including recruiting artists and creating artist's statements to explain their work.

• Partner with Booster Club to promote attendance at exhibit.

• Lead weekly club meetings.

Student Council Class Representative • Elected by classmates to represent their concerns on the Student Council.

• Meet weekly to consider proposals and to plan events that will increase sense of community within the school.

• Plan, publicize, and host outdoor movie night for Upper School students.

• Created fund-raiser to replace trees on campus destroyed by drought.

ATHLETICS Tampa Prep Girls' Volleyball Junior Varsity (9), Varsity (10-12), Captain (12)

12 grade

2 hrs/wk 36 wks/yr

9-12 grade

2 hrs/wk 36 wks/yr

10-12 grade

2 hrs/wk 36 wks/yr

9-12 grade

• Partner with Booster Club to promote attendance at exhibit.

• Lead weekly club meetings.

Student Council Class Representative • Elected by classmates to represent their concerns on the Student Council.

• Meet weekly to consider proposals and to plan events that will increase sense of community within the school.

SAMPLE RESUME contd.

• Plan, publicize, and host outdoor movie night for Upper School students.

• Created fund-raiser to replace trees on campus destroyed by drought.

ATHLETICS Tampa Prep Girls' Volleyball Junior Varsity (9), Varsity (10-12), Captain (12) • Lead daily practices during pre-season.

• Won state championship in grades 10 and 11.

• Established team unity by making signs for players' lockers on game day.

Tampa Prep Girls' Track and Field Team Varsity (9-12), Captain (12) • Named All-Conference in discus (12).

ARTS

Dance Company Member (10-11); Choreographer (11-12); Principal Dancer, Soloist (12) • Selected annually through audition process.

• Perform in annual dance recital and student choreography project.

• Choreographed one ballet and one hip-hop piece for student project.

• Planned and executed Dance Company's annual service project, a series of bake sales to raise money for a NGO devoted to providing clean water in Africa.

COMMUNITY SERVICE Special Olympics Bocce Ball Tournament Volunteer (10-11), Co-Chair (12) • Serve as a referee for bocce ball matches.

• Recruit and train volunteers for event.

• Oversee set up and clean up of event.

• Manage operations of tournament on tournament day.

Race for the Cure Participant Ran with Tampa Prep team to raise funds for breast cancer research.

10-12 grade

2 hrs/wk 36 wks/yr

9-12 grade

15 hrs/wk 14 wks/yr 9-12 grade 15 hrs/wk 14 wks/yr 10-12 grade

8 hrs/wk 36 wks/yr

9-12 grade

30 hrs/yr 9-11 grade 3 hrs/yr

Continued

admission decision DEFINITIONS EARLY DECISION (Binding Agreement)

ACCEPT If you are offered admission, you must submit your tuition deposit immediately and withdraw your applications from all other institutions.

DEFER For early decision you have not been admitted. However, your application will be considered with the regular descision applicant pool. You have the opportunity to submit additional or new pieces of information to your file including essays, recommendations, additional awards and honors won, and semester grades. You may want to contact the admission office to see if they will pinpoint a particular weakness in your application.

It is also important to submit applications to other institutions.

DENY You have not been offered admission and your application will not be reconsidered. Focus your efforts on your regular decision college choices.

EARLY ACTION (Non-Binding Agreement)

ADMIT In some cases you may have the option to apply early action to a college or university. Unlike early decision, early action is NOT binding. You may be admitted to a college under early action, but you do not have to commit to enrolling at the college until May 1, the National Candidates Reply Deadline.

DEFER Just as with early decision, applicants can be deferred under early

action. An admission decision is not made early and your file will be considered with the regular decision applicant pool.

DENY You have not been offered admission to the college. Focus your efforts on your regular decision college choices.

REGULAR DECISION ACCEPT

You are offered a place in the class and you must send a tuition deposit by May 1 to reserve your place in the class. It is important to write to the other schools to which you were accepted to let them know that you will not be attending their school. This is the ethical thing to do, since other students may be on a wait list.

WAIT LIST You are not admitted at this time, but you are a person that the college would like to have in the class

if space becomes available. Most schools give you a choice to remain on the wait list. There is often a return postcard. You can also call to express your desire to remain on the list. If the school is your first choice, be sure to contact the admission office and let them know they are your first choice and that you will come if given the opportunity. This type of contact can make a difference when an admission office goes to the wait list. Most schools will not rank order their wait list and have very little idea of whether or not they’ll be going to their list until mid-May. Therefore, it is essential you send a deposit to another college.

DENY Your application has not been accepted. It is important you move on and choose a school from among the good offers of admission you have received. In most cases colleges will not allow you to appeal a deny decision.

NOTE: Your seat in the class is reserved until May 1.

Students are to make their enrollment deposit at one college by May 1. and advise their college counselor of their choice as well.

(and parents!)

Thank You Note(s) to Teachers

Housing Deposit Sent

Deposit Submitted

if offered Early Decision)

Letter of Intent to Enroll OR Withdrawl Sent (by May 1; earlier

Notice of College Decision Received

(if necessary)

Alumni Interview Scheduled

(at least 4 weeks before deadline)

Teacher Recommendation Requested

for common app)

Secondary School Report Form Given to Counselor (not required

Application Completed, Submitted and Fee Paid

SAT &/or ACT Sent to College(s)

(at least 2 weeks before deadline)

Transcript Requested

Application Proofed

Application Deadline

COLLEGE NAME

COLLEGE CHECKLIST