Welcome to summer! While you enjoy the sun and fun, remember to set aside some time each week to work on your college application plan. PEAK strongly advises using the summer months to gather materials, build resumes, and develop essay topics. Need some guidance? Reach out to PEAK to create your productive summer application plan.
Summer Guide for the Class of 2025:
Transcripts: Request official copies of your high school transcripts from your school's guidance office. These transcripts should contain your grades from all high school years, providing a comprehensive overview of your academic performance.
Standardized Test Scores: It's essential to gather scores from standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, IB, and AP, as universities commonly require these. These scores help admissions officers evaluate your academic abilities and potential.
Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from teachers, counselors, or other mentors who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential. Having two or three recommendations, depending on admissions requirements from each university, provides a comprehensive view of your capabilities and strengths.
Personal Statement: The Common App has released the 2024-2025 essay prompts, and summer is an ideal time to work on your personal statement. Write compelling essays that showcase your unique personality, interests, experiences, and aspirations. Many colleges have specific prompts or topics for these essays to understand you better as an applicant.
Extracurricular Activities List: Compile a comprehensive list of your extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, part-time jobs, or any other involvement outside of academics. This list demonstrates your well-rounded interests and contributions to your community.
Portfolio (if applicable): If you're applying to programs in art, music, or theater, you may need to submit a portfolio showcasing your creative work and talents. This portfolio provides a visual representation of your skills and artistic potential.
Resume: A well-structured resume is a powerful tool that effectively highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, work experience, skills, and any awards you've received. It provides a holistic view of your accomplishments and capabilities, significantly impacting your college application.
Using your summer wisely will prepare you for a less stressful, enjoyable senior year. Cheers to the Class of 2025!
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