College Applications

By Evie Craft

With the end of October rapidly approaching, our senior class is preparing to submit their first wave of college applications. On November 1st, applications for early decision, early action, and specialized programs are due. The college application process is much more complex than sending in resumes and clicking submit; to apply, you must curate a representative portfolio that demonstrates both your academic strength while highlighting community and activity involvement. The first thing many students associate with college applications is your personal statement. The process for drafting, writing, and finalizing this 650 word essay can take weeks. Senior Corinne Runnels recommends to “just get something on paper, stepping away, and then returning with a fresh mind to review.” She also found value in “asking others to look at it.” As looming as this requirement seems, it is in best interest not to avoid it. On the common application, students are given 10 slots to enter any leadership, athletic, volunteer, or adjacent extracurricular activities. Viz counselors focus on making each description as efficient and accurate as possible. For certain institutions, supplemental essays are required. Differing in length requirements, the topics can span from the traditional “Why Major” and “Why University” questions to prompts that push applicants to think creatively. During this time, some schools will also request additional application materials if you choose to apply to their honors program. Some Viz students have already submitted their college applications and received responses, while some wait for the regular decision application deadline in January. A great decision outcome is expected for this class of Viz seniors, good luck Vivettes!