<p>My S is currently a junior (taking SAT) today. I started last summer researching the whole college admissions drama- read all the books ( Colleges that Change Lives, Harvard Schmarvard- Colleges Unranked,) Bought some college guidebooks. Started reading College confidential like a junkie. Took s on college visits starting last fall. So far he has visited 9 colleges. Trying to look beyond the same 25 colleges everyone in his high school applies to. (Very hard to do that actually)</p>
<p>I thought by now more clarity would have occurred. But not so much. The only thing s is sure of is that he does not want to attend a very urban type school. </p>
<p>I think it is time to take a deep breath, and try to relax about it all. Hope that the right option of schools will become clearer as the fall arrives.</p>
<p>“Trying to look beyond the same 25 colleges everyone in his high school applies to. (Very hard to do that actually)”</p>
<p>We found that out last year…the only way to do this is by diversifying geographically in a “big” way…but the family has to be in it for the haul…if you know what I mean…</p>
<p>But, yes, very difficult…</p>
<p>I’m sorry you’re so stressed.</p>
<p>Admissions director of Columbia described the college app process like carrying another AP Class - and STRONGLY recommends completing as much as possible, particularly writing essays over the summer. I have gotten this same advise (in edgy tones) from two parents of graduating seniors and from the prep school counseling office. </p>
<p>After college visits and discussions in Junior year, D requested a “college free zone” from Mid April through AP/ACT/SAT/SATII/FINALS. Mail is stockpiled; lips are zipped.</p>
<p>Not so sure that taking a break until fall is such a good idea</p>
<p>"Not so sure that taking a break until fall is such a good idea "</p>
<p>Toadstool you are right of coarse. Maybe just be laid back until July. I am not so much stressed than weary of it all, and the application precess has not even begun yet…</p>
<p>I just needed to vent a little. (And see if anyone feels the same. )</p>