Transcript Document
Applying to College Tips on the Process Created by: Susan Turner-McMullen, M.S., P.P.S., Counselor Verdugo Hills High School, LAUSD Sandra Hernandez, M.S., P.P.S., College Counselor John F. Kennedy High School, LAUSD Allen Forsythe, P.P.S., Counselor City of Angels School, Independent Study, LAUSD CSUN Upward Bound Program Tips on the Process Prioritize your applications by deadline Use a calendar and checklist to get organized Create a Brag Sheet Tailor your application (private schools) Read and follow the instructions Make your application stand out from the crowd Practice on a copy of the application form Tips on Writing the Best Essay Answer the essay question orally and then write Use an outline to organize your thoughts Give examples and be specific Personalize your essay and be passionate Write about something of interest to you Talk about your impact on other people Proofread a printed copy of the essay for spelling and grammar errors Tips on Letters of Recommendation Ask the teacher if they can write you a great letter of recommendation The recommendation should be relevant to the scholarship and/or school Provide the recommender with a copy of your Brag Sheet Provide the recommender with all forms Thank the recommender for writing the letter Other Tips… Use a professional email address, such as [email protected] Clean up the content of your Facebook account, removing inappropriate and immature material Google your name to see what shows up Make a photocopy or print your application before mailing it If rejected, ask for the reviewer comments Most Common Mistakes Missing deadlines Failing to proofread the application Failing to follow directions (essay length, number of recommendations) Omitting required information Applying for an award when you don’t qualify Failing to apply for an award for which you are eligible Failing to tailor the application to the sponsor SCAMS Beware of scholarship & financial aid scams! Never pay for scholarship information Never pay to have someone prepare the FAFSA Nobody can guarantee that you’ll win a scholarship Get Help: Contact a Counselor Today! Susan Turner-McMullen - 818-951-5466 Cynthia Edwards-Alarcon 818-951-5446 Griscelda Lepe - 818-951-5442 Mark Woodhouse - 818-951-5422 Paul McGlothlin (Magnet Coord.) 818-951-5426 Remember, counselors are waiting to assist you.