Juniors and Parents:

What if we told you that it is possible to complete the majority of the application process before your first day of senior year?!

Starting your applications over the summer is the best way to avoid the stress and mess of adding them to your busy schedule of school, sports, and other extra-curriculars in the fall. Below, you will find a quick guide/timeline for the rest of the year in regards to college planning:

What you can do now:

• Take virtual tours (offered on most college websites)
• Begin making a list of important criteria that you want in a school (big/small, urban vs. rural, cost, has an arts program, has my sport team, etc.)
• Compile a list of potential teachers or mentors for recommendations
• Begin scheduling standardized tests with the SAT and/or ACT (reach out to us with questions and concerns, and to schedule test prep sessions!)
• Take/schedule standardized tests

Over the summer (How we can help!):

• Research, discuss, and compile schools that will fit you as a student using your criteria
• Brainstorm, develop, and edit your CommonApp/Coalition and supplemental essays
• Reach out to teachers and mentors for recommendations
• Finalize standardized testing

In the fall:

• Finalize essays and applications
• Maintain grades during senior year (before AND after transcripts are sent to colleges)

**Pro tip: any essay that makes Mary Lou laugh OR cry earns its writer a free pizza!**

We know the process of applying to college can feel daunting, which is why we are here to help with both in-person and virtual one-on-one sessions. Parents, we have the expertise to guide your students so you can enjoy your time with them before they leave the nest. In other words, let us do the nagging! Please don’t hesitate to reach out! We will put you in touch with our College Prep team who can answer your questions.

Sincerely,

The MLS Team