College Spotlight: University of Alabama

Colleges rely on Letters of Recommendation (LOR’s) in admissions decisions because they reinforce your own self-assessment through objective sources — teachers who knows you well. A LOR that confirms your positive qualities can provide a rationale for an admission official to favor you in the process. LOR’s can also introduce additional positive traits that you haven’t asserted elsewhere in your application package. Colleges form a holistic picture to supplement the hard facts in your academic record. LOR’s play a role in developing this picture along with your essays, interviews, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. Admissions officials tend to conclude that, since your teachers speak of you in glowing terms, you’re likely to succeed at their institution. You should devote the same time and attention to LOR’s that you do to the other parts of your application. Over 15% of selective and highly selective institutions view LOR’s as “highly important” in admissions and more than half of them consider LOR’s to be “moderately important”. The LOR’s submitted by your recommenders need to be relevant, positive, enthusiastic, and factually specific. A lackluster LOR or a weak one can have a negative effect. Don’t ask for a LOR from a teacher and then leave the outcome to chance. Finding the Best Teachers to Write Your LOR’s You’re required by the most colleges to submit LOR’s from one or two teachers. Colleges value LOR’s from 11th grade teachers due to their recent experience in teaching you for a full academic year. Teachers in core courses are preferred, especially if they teach in your intended field of study. Who you ask is the most important factor in the effectiveness of your LOR’s. Ask teachers who know you well and like you. These teachers should be able to address not just whether you’re an exceptional student, but also such things as leadership traits, your ability to deal with adversity, and your contributions to the class. If they also attest to the fact that you’re a kind, considerate, likeable person, your LOR’s will have an even more favorable impact. Managing the LOR Process Below are steps you can take to assure that your LOR’s will have the desired effect. 1. Ask for LOR’s in Junior Year: Since colleges prefer 11th grade teachers, ask two of them in Spring semester of that year. If a teacher indicates that they have any doubts about your worthiness, ask someone else. 2. Make It Easy for Them: Give recommenders a letter that reminds them of your achievements in their course. List the colleges to which you’re most likely to apply as well as your educational goals. Attach a résumé and a graded paper or exam to your letter. This enables recommenders to write a detailed and strategically consistent narrative. Also ask them if they’ll permit you to remind them of the submission deadline in the Fall. 3. Express Gratitude: Send a “Thank You” note to the teachers after their submission. The central theme of your application is validated if teachers reflect that same theme in their letters. There will be resonance throughout the parts of your application package because teachers who know you well confirm some of the same positive traits that you have emphasized. Impressive LOR’s will distinguish your application and make a strong contribution to your success in admissions.

Résumés aren’t always required as part of applications to colleges and universities, but when they are, they represent an opportunity. Submitting an effective résumé enables you to present your best self to colleges by allowing you to emphasize your most noteworthy extracurricular accomplishments. Many students encounter a problem with standard application formats that can be solved with a résumé. They’re frustrated by the limited space available to describe extracurricular activities. Extracurriculars are important. They’re among the “soft” factors, along with essays, letters, and interviews, which you’ll use to build a case for admission in support of your academic record As an example, the Activities Section of the Common App has spaces for you to describe 10 activities, but you must do so in no more than 50 characters each. For many applicants, this is insufficient to describe an unorthodox organization or leadership positions. This lack of space causes two problems that can both be resolved by submitting a résumé: 1. The limits don’t accommodate students who want to describe their leadership progression within an organization, which is something that colleges value, and, 2. It constrains students who want to describe extracurricular activities that are uncommon because it doesn’t let you to identify activities in your own words. It forces you to select from a pull-down menu. Unfortunately, colleges vary widely in their policies regarding résumés. Some require a résumé, some will review your résumé if you submit one, and other don’t want it at all. Many colleges indicate that a résumé is optional, so you should seize this opportunity. Below are a few examples that indicate the range of policies: Princeton won’t review any non-required documents such as résumés that are submitted with applications, but Dartmouth will. Vanderbilt will review a 2-page résumé, but they discourage them. Brandeis and Georgetown allow you to upload a résumé, but don’t require it. Penn states in their admissions material that, “You are required to complete the Activities Section of the [Common] application. If an activity needs to be explained in greater detail, you may include an expanded explanation or a résumé.” Avoid shortcuts in developing your résumé. Don’t use a template that you find on the web. They inhibit your ability to present your information in the manner that you see fit. Although the opportunity to use as many words as you want to in a free-form document is tempting, we advise that you keep your résumé as short as possible. It need only draw the reader’s attention to those activities that you want to emphasize. These should be the non-academic pursuits that will make you appealing as a potential addition to a college’s student body. Remember that your résumé is a selective representation of your activities, not a dumping ground for everything you’ve ever done. At MyCollegeFit , we advise our students to avoid bragging, especially on their résumés. Among our culture’s social norms is the assumption that a person should be modest. If a person isn’t modest, it upsets expectations. Impression management, an art practiced by many successful people, is about subtly leading others to view you favorably. If an admissions officer thinks you’re trying too hard, they may be turned off by you — the exact opposite of what you’re trying to accomplish. Opportunities to brag present themselves on applications, in interviews, and on résumés. Below are some tips to help you avoid bragging in your communications with colleges while still coming across as upbeat about yourself and your qualifications. 1. Be likable: An unlikable student may have difficulty gaining admission to a selective or highly selective colleges no matter how good their academic record. Colleges have many other applicants who are equally as well qualified as you but more likely to fit in well with their other students. 2. Let others brag about you: Your teachers and others who are writing letters of recommendation can sing your praises. You should be modest. 3. Describe what you did, not what you are: Which sounds better, “I’m a great humanitarian” or “I set up and managed a food bank in my town after a hurricane”? One of the problems caused by bragging is the question of whether something you say about yourself is verifiable. How can the reader know that you’re telling the truth? If you make such a claim about yourself but don’t describe an outcome as evidence, they have only your word alone. You may not be believed. 4. Share the glory: In the above reference to a food bank, for example, it’s recommended that you add something like, “…with the cooperation and assistance of other caring people in the town”. 5. Be kind: In an interview, never say anything negative about a person or organization. Colleges would prefer not to have highly judgmental people in their student body. 6. Be confident: Come across as having confidence in yourself and your accomplishments, but avoid self-admiration. Your goal is to maximize your chance of being accepted by colleges. Your résumé is one of the ways to make a positive impression on college admissions officers. MyCollegeFit , as an experienced college admissions consulting firm, has the expertise to guide you through all stages of your admissions campaign. Part of our contribution to your success is assistance in creating a résumé that ideally suits your individual profile and the expectations of colleges.

In early April I participated in the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges (LVAIC) Counselor Tour. LVAIC is a consortium of six unique colleges and universities within the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. They collaborate on various opportunities for students and faculty including class cross registration. This area of Pennsylvania was once best known for the Bethlehem Steel mill, but since it's closing, the area has reinvented itself and has much to offer. A restaurant scene, unique shops, natural beauty, and a thriving medical and health network combine to make this a great area to attend college. LVAIC is comprised of Cedar Crest College, DeSales University, Lafayette College, Lehigh University, Moravian College, and Muhlenberg College. What I enjoyed most about this tour, aside from the beautiful and picturesque campuses, was that these schools were just minutes apart yet they differentiate themselves with their campus environment, academic opportunities, and success stories. Each has it's own feel and each could provide the right fit for the right student. Here are just a few of my takeaways from each, but I encourage clicking on the school links to explore them further. Muhlenberg College (Allentown, PA): Well known for it’s top-notch theatre and dance program that produces six main stage productions a year. Last year 15 seniors performed senior showcases and agents signed 11 that night. The program also boasts a very strong alumni network in NYC and Los Angeles, many of whom are successful actors and writers. Majors in the sciences are a close second in popularity with numerous research opportunities and a 94% success rate with first time applicants to med school. This is a thriving community of students who are socially aware, very active, and quite supportive of their peers. New program: After becoming the first liberal arts college to have a Public Health minor, they now have a major also. Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA): Best known historically as an engineering school however it has much to offer beyond that. Arts & Sciences is the largest school and the Business school is quite strong. Entrepreneurial spirit is nurtured with programs in place to carry students from ideas to inception resulting in over 50 start-ups a year. Has 11 ABET accredited engineering programs. All engineers take a common freshman year then declare a major. Engineers can study abroad and be a part of the total college experience (participate in band, theatre, etc). Lehigh has a strong DI athletic culture. Unique offerings:Integrated Product Design (IPD) major that culminates in producing a product; Integrated Degree in Engineering, Arts and Sciences (IDEAS) is a four-year honors program that allows students to earn a bachelor degree with concentrations in both colleges like bioengineering and international relations. Moravian College (Bethlehem, PA): Prides itself, and rightfully so, as a school that “transforms kids.” The president is very active and present on campus hosting office hours and forging relationships with students. He even has a pet greyhound (the school’s mascot) that is well known around campus. This school is a hidden gem. It is a nurturing community with a faculty and administration who know and support each student. All students are given a MacBook and iPad and they are very generous with need-based aid (90% of students receive aid and 98% gift aid). Popular majors: Health Sciences, Public Health, Computer Science, and a robust music program (is a Steinway school). Lafayette College (Easton, PA): A traditional liberal arts college, but with engineering, that seeks to help students find their passion and engage it in meaningful ways. Five engineering majors are offered and all share the same freshman year courses. As the smallest comprehensive Division I college in the country, Lafayette offers the full college experience with sports, a Greek system, and numerous activities. Students are engaged intellectually, involved, and see the world. Unique programs: Gateway Program in Career Services walks students through career exploration, x-ternships, and coaching to lead to significant plans after graduation; a robust internship stipend program designed to help students who have unpaid or low paying internships. Cedar Crest College (Allentown, PA): A women’s college emphasizing leadership across all disciplines and civic engagement. They help young women harness their potential to do great things. A well-structured first year experience includes classes, a common read, weekly meetings with one’s mentor/advisor, and a monthly lecture series. Graduation in four years is guaranteed. Popular majors: Forensic Science, Nursing, and the Health Sciences. DeSales University (Center Valley, PA): A Catholic university administered by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. A rather young institution, it is celebrating is 50th anniversary. An emphasis is put on building the whole person and graduating students who are ethical and will be a positive force in the world. Strong Criminal Justice major that includes training at the Allentown Police Academy. Graduates are immediately hirable as police officers. Popular programs: expansive business program with 11 majors with new ones in Forensic Accounting and Supply Chain Management; Nursing; and TV/Film.

The University of Arizona, in the charming city of Tucson, is a flagship public university that definitely does "big" well. 32,000 undergraduates call this palm tree-lined campus home. It is a distinct one square mile biker friendly campus that does not feel large and impersonal. Arizona boasts a transformative environment for its students that produces employable, innovative, and creative adults ready for the world. The University of Arizona does many things (beyond its numerous NCAA accomplishments) quite well. Here are a few of the highlights: Its highly regarded Department of Astronomy has the largest undergraduate and PhD programs in the country. The College of Engineering offers 14 undergraduate majors. The McGuire Entrepreneurship Program is one of the highest ranked entrepreneurial programs of public universities. Most unique major: the Race Track Industry program in the School of Agriculture. Offers the nation's only BA in Law. This undergraduate degree is for careers that do not require a law degree. The School of Dance is one of the top five dance programs in the country. The SALT Center (Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques) is designed to assist students with learning and attention challenges. It is nationally renowned and serves as a model of success for other institutions. Most unique residential offering: Navajo-Pinal Hall which is four floors of dorm rooms under the scoreboard at the football stadium. Wins the Best Weather Award: the campus enjoys 350 days of sunshine a year.

Exam time is right around the corner for many students. Success in a class is typically a result of quality studying throughout the year, not just for the exam. The good news is it's never too late to attain or refine strong study skills. Create free simple learning tools for any subject using Quilzlet's (https://quizlet.com) flashcards, tests, and study games. I love this resource and it's useful from grade school to graduate school. Create a quiet clutter free space to study. If you find music helpful, use headphones. Study groups tend to be more social than helpful so going it alone is usually best. Throughout the semester, review all of your notes and re-read important passages in your text book. Although you may sometimes find success in cramming, in the long run it is not in your best interest. In college, the volume of work not only increases tremendously but it is also harder. Cramming will not be your friend so break the habit now. Have a healthy snack to keep you focused and not hungry or crashing after a sugar rush. Nuts, fruit, milk, and whole grains are some options. Chips, cookies, candy and caffeine are tasty but are not healthy snacks.

Some colleges require or recommend that applicants take two or three SAT Subject Tests. Unlike the SAT or the ACT, these are hour-long content based tests. Each test is on one subject and a student can take up to three in one sitting. There are 20 SAT Subject Tests in five general subject areas: English, history, languages, math and science. You should choose the tests that will best showcase the subject areas where you excel. A few other things to consider: Check the college's website to see if it requires any specific Subject Tests or if you can choose. For example, a college may require that prospective engineering majors take the Math 2 Subject Test and a at least one science Subject Test. Take the subject test right after you've completed the recommended classes in school because the material will still be fresh. Look here:https://sat.collegeboard.org/practice/sat-subject-test-preparation to find the recommended preparation guidelines for each subject as well as practice questions. The May and June test dates of sophomore and junior years tend to be the best dates for this. Prepare. Try the free practice questions, download the Getting Ready for the SAT Subject Tests practice booklet or use other preparation resources. Remember, all colleges and universities do NOT consider SAT Subject Tests in their admissions process. The best way to confirm testing requirements is directly on the college's website. Register for subject test here: https://sat.collegeboard.org/register/

This year found many more students applying Early Action to several schools. As a result, several colleges deferred more students than usual. Being deferred is an admissions decision that, from a student's perspective, isn't really a decision at all. Deferred means "we like you but need a few more months before we decide if we will offer you the opportunity to join our student body." The good news is there is a possibility that the student may be admitted. The bad news is that a student has to wait. If a student has been deferred, there are a few things that can be done to demonstrate continued interest in the college and a desire to attend. Write a letter/email: Express your continued interest and intent to enroll upon admission. Reiterate why the college is the best fit for you. Update them on any achievements or other pertinent information that has occurred since you applied. This should not be too long. Be respectful of the fact that admissions representatives are still very deep in reading applications. Also remember that they will receive your mid-year report (first semester grades) from your school counselor after semester grades are finalized. Send any additional materials that could be helpful: an additional letter(s) of recommendation, extra materials that might strengthen your application (research, etc). The key is to give the admissions committee any possible information that can help them make a positive decision. Be certain you understand the college's deferral policy. If in your deferral letter you are specifically told not to write or send additional materials for consideration, then you shouldn't.