How are students driving their own college process?

I'm trying to be proactive and take charge of my own college process. How can I best do this when it comes to researching and applying to schools? Any strategies or tools you've found useful?

Taking charge of your own college application process is a significant step and I admire your initiative! A successful college process relies heavily on research, organization, and setting realistic expectations.

Start by researching potential schools based on what you care about most. This could be majors or programs offered, location, campus culture, extracurricular opportunities, financial aid, etc. Take notes on each school's unique attributes and how they align with your goals and interests. A good place to start can be using online resources like CollegeVine's school search tool which offers detailed information about a wide range of colleges.

Next one is to stay organized. Create a calendar or spreadsheet that lists application deadlines, test dates (if applicable), interview timelines, and any other important dates. Adding in reminders can help you stay on track and not miss any crucial deadlines.

Don't forget to acquaint yourself with each institution's application requirements. Some schools may require additional essays or supplements, recommendations, interviews, or portfolio submissions. Ensure you allocate enough time to complete all these tasks effectively.

Additionally, consider utilizing resources like Appily for scholarship information. However, be cautious and only apply for legitimate scholarships, avoiding any that require a fee for application.

Lastly, open up a communication channel with your guidance counselor, who can provide valuable insight and resources during this process. Connect with current students or alumni of your target schools, and visit campuses physically or virtually if possible. This will help you get a real-life feel of the campus culture and community.

Remember, while it's good to work independently, don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Your high school teachers, counselors, and family can be great support systems throughout this journey. Good luck!