“I don’t know where to start,” says Glenbrook South Senior James Ettling, regarding the daunting task of applying for colleges. Many seniors, like Ettling, are confused about the college application process. It’s hard to know how to choose a college, when to turn in applications, and who to ask for teacher recommendations.

There are several important factors to consider when choosing where to apply for college. It is not important to decide on a major when applying, but instead it is crucial for students to know their strengths and interests. Students also must have a serious talk with their parents to discuss financial issues when applying to college, since parents usually pay for college tuition.

A common mistake seniors make when applying to college is applying strictly to schools where people they know have gone. It is important for students to look into many different types of schools to find the best fit.

Another mistake is assuming that a very high ACT or SAT score will compensate for four years of bad grades, when in reality admissions officers judge the application as a whole. Of great importance are the students’ essays. Colleges look at the student’s essay to reveal the experience, intentions, and insight.

The general timeline for turning in applications varies; accordingly, it is always the student’s responsibility to be aware of deadlines. While many colleges have rolling admissions, it is always to the student’s benefit to apply early, especially if there’s a specific program into which the student wishes to be accepted.

Many schools request the student to submit teacher recommendations. Students should ask teachers who know them well, and who they had during their junior year or have currently. Quality, not quantity, is important when sending in teacher recommendations; having too many recommendations is not impressive to colleges. Having extra recommendations from adults outside of the school may be beneficial if the student is involved in volunteer activities or a job.

The most important thing for seniors to remember is to stay organized during the college application process, but don’t worry: there’s a college for everyone. Oracle wishes seniors good luck!

Jillian Hirsch, assistant features editor