Academics

Hints for Completing Your Application

Important Information: it is recommended that you use the McGehee School information on your applications for fall of 2009.

Procedure

Request applications from colleges no later than September of your senior year.
Make a copy of each application to use as a rough draft. Do not write or type on the original until you are sure of what you want to say.
If applying on-line, print out a hard copy of your application first, using it as a rough draft. Print out your final copy too and save!
Make a copy of each completed application and save it for future reference.

Waive Your Right of Access

On most recommendation forms, there is a check box in which you can waive your right to access the recommendation. Our advice is to waive your right. By doing so, you are acknowledging confidentiality and trusting the system that the admissions office has put into place.
Thus, the person writing your recommendation will be more forthright and thorough.
Colleges better value letters that students have not previewed.

Organization

Consider keeping all of your college materials in one place.
Color-coded files are helpful; create one for each of your colleges.
When listing your activities or work experiences, focus on those most significant to you. Explain what you have done; provide examples of leadership, service or commitment.

Helpful Hints

REMEMBER, colleges and universities mainly use the information that YOU provide them in making their decisions. Be THOROUGH, HONEST, AND SPECIFIC. Don't leave your reader guessing.
Make sure your final college list includes schools of varying selectivity, including what would be (FOR YOU) a reach school, a probable school, and a safety school. A typical independent school senior applies to between five and ten colleges.
Before sending supplementary materials such as tapes, written work, portfolios, or extra recommendations, consult the Director of College Counseling.
Take your time with your applications; they're the best representation of you in the entire admissions process. Do not rush this important process.
There is no need to type your short-answer responses to application questions, provided you can write legibly. Essays however MUST be typed. Please use a header for each page of your essay that exhibits your full name and social security number.
Take ALL deadlines seriously. Distinguish between Part I and Part II deadlines. Don't just MEET deadlines, be AHEAD of them.
An optional photo should be treated as mandatory; it helps to personalize your application.
Be sure to sign your application and include the application fee. If you are not yet eighteen, a parent signature may be required as well.
Be neat. Always proofread. Check spelling and grammar. Don't exaggerate, and don't try to by funny if that is not your usual style.