College application time is here! Your college counselor expects to meet with you often to help you refine your college list, critique your essays, and discuss other important college-related matters. Your counselor is your advocate and ally, and will write a supportive, comprehensive letter of recommendation on your behalf. This letter is included with the transcript and other credentials that College Guidance sends to colleges at your request.

Senior year is incredibly busy! In addition to keeping your grades up (yes, colleges care a lot about senior year grades and expect you to maintain a good record until you graduate), you are community leaders who are managing many demands on your time. Do your best to stay organized and one step ahead of all deadlines! Use Naviance's Family Connection to keep your application process on track and your counselor and parents in the loop. Use the Common Application website to complete many of your applications. Use College Board to have SAT scores sent to colleges and to access the CSS Profile application for financial aid (required by many private colleges). Work with your parents to complete the FAFSA (required by all colleges at which you are applying for financial aid) soon after January 1.

By April 1 you should hear from all your colleges, and by May 1 most of you will be committed to a college. The College Guidance staff will be among the many who celebrate your achievements as you walk the path to Commencement!