<p>I’m trying to determine where applicants and their parents have the most trouble in the college admissions process. All responses welcome!</p>
<p>I guess I would say the timing of everything. </p>
<p>Timing to get all the SAT testing, AP and Subject tests in Jr. year. Timing of college visits, trying to see schools in session but clearly the summer is when families have the most time to visit. I had no idea that colleges would have so many open houses in senior year during Sept/Oct/Nov so didn’t plan our schedules around having weekends free. </p>
<p>Timing of all the college apps since they don’t all use the same date. Timing for students to get their supplements written along with their essay and sent before the deadlines. Timing to request transcripts from our schools (need 2 week lead time). Timing for Collegeboard test results to be sent (also need 2 weeks).</p>
<p>College admissions doesn’t have to be a struggle. I started my applications early in the summer and have been ready to submit for a while now (just checking everything in detail - the most tedious part!). The first day of school, I asked my teachers for recommendations, and I visited my English teachers nonstop to help with essays. I talked to counselors ASAP and researched almost everyday. To be honest, I’m rather stress-free, though I imagine that’ll change as the notification deadlines near. </p>
<p>Start early. Write often. Take advantage of all your resources.</p>
<p>And oh yeah, start early.</p>
<p>That’s interesting…Lakemom - so it sounds like the toughest piece for you is managing all the deadlines and staying organized. How do you keep track of everything?</p>
<p>Writing essays :/. Every other part has been done since August!</p>
<p>Actually, it wasn’t difficult for me personally because I am a tremendous planner and get things organized way in advance. I give my son dates to get things done by and he follows my lead and does it all on time. </p>
<p>I just know having read on this forum how kids got stuck not taking their subject tests on time or trying to try both the ACT and SAT and maybe repeat them as well as study for them.</p>
<p>The application due dates are fine, provided you have a list of schools before Sept of Senior year. I know people who are just now doing their college search in Senior year and I cant’ imagine how they will get it all in and keep their stress level down.</p>
<p>Swimfreak - what’s the hardest part about writing your essay?</p>