Standardized testing, class projects, final exams…it’s the final push before a well-deserved summer break. While May is busy, there are a few key things juniors can do this month related to their college applications:
Request Letters of Recommendation (LORs). A good LOR gives insight into a student’s character, potential, strengths, and personality. Many teachers work on LORs over the summer; requesting them now gives teachers a heads-up (and beats the early Fall rush). At least one recommender should be a teacher in a core subject, while a second academic LOR can come from a wider subject range. Pro tip: We encourage students to think about when they demonstrated their best abilities and skills, not just a class in which they got the highest grade. A challenging class that required extra effort can highlight persistence and resourcefulness, for example.
Start working on Common App. Common App is the platform that students use to submit many/all of their college applications. While the 2024-2025 application cycle doesn’t officially start until August 1st, juniors can create their account now and work in the Common App tab. This info will be rolled over into the new application cycle, so there’s no reason to wait! Pro tip: We recommend our students complete the college-specific questions after August 1st since these may change as colleges adjust over the summer from the previous application cycle. Nothing’s more frustrating than doing work you eventually have to redo.
Brainstorm for their personal statement. This is the 650-word essay that will be a part of almost every college application a student submits. There's a few qualities of a productive personal statement:
It highlights something that is either not evident or explained elsewhere in the application.
It includes insight into the student's values, skills, qualities, and/or interests.
It reflects the student's voice and personality.
You can read some of what the Endeavor Class of 2024 chose to write about here. You will notice a wide variety of topics! We help students find the story they want to tell and then determine the best theme or prompt for framing it. In our experience, this approach makes for more interesting, reflective, and inspired writing. Pro tip: One of our favorite brainstorming activities to use with students is this one! In our experience, it leads to unexpected topics that often turn into fantastic essays.
By focusing on these 3 things in May, juniors will be well-prepared for their fast-approaching college applications.
Are you interested in college advising for your rising senior or rising junior? Check out our services here. Package prices increase June 1st, so contact us for a complimentary initial consultation now to lock in current pricing.