TOP 12 Things Colleges Look For. Where Do You Start?

by | Sep 9, 2021 | Uncategorized

“One of the best things about our academic collegiate system is that there is a college for everybody; the student will thrive in an appropriate  college.  And we know by now, that selective colleges do not guarantee financial or emotional success. Our mission is to help students find the appropriate colleges.”
Peggy Baker, M.Ed., CEP

We could not agree more. Our goal is to find the right FIT for your student and family: academically, socially, geographically and financially. It is absolutely fine that some colleges are highly selective with the students they choose. It is our job to help guide families in the right direction for THEIR STUDENT, not the neighbor’s, not the other family on the lacrosse field, not the one in the movies, nor the one that is popular in their particular circle. We have many, many amazing choices.  “The longer the runway, the smoother the take off.” Lee Norwood (and most pilots I know).

 

 

The College Journey: Top 12 Things Colleges Look For. Where Do You Start?

SEP. 06, 2021

Applying to college can be a stressful time for a family. You are embarking on a 2-4-year journey and you want to make sure that you do whatever it takes to get into the right school. What is the right school? It’s all about FIT. The college needs to fit financially, geographically, academically, and socially. There are thousands of colleges in the US, and there is more than one that will be right for your child and for your family.

Just as every college is different, so too are your criteria and priorities. One of the greatest advantages of working with an independent educational consultant is their personal knowledge of these unique characteristics of both the schools and the student.

So what does a college look for in a student?

1. A rigorous high school curriculum that challenges the student.

2. High grade point average in main subjects.

3. High scores on standardized tests. (Test optional? We can talk about that.)

4. Involvement in meaningful activities. Helping at home and having a job count.

5. A well-written personal essay that provides insight into the student’s unique personality.

6-12. Leadership, Diversity, Recommendations, Talent, Curiosity, Character and Interest.

At Annapolis College Consulting, we help to build the right college list for your student. Many lists can be filled with well-known colleges , Ivy League, or “popular” schools from a movie. This is not the right approach. It is not as important where you go as it is what you do there.  We work with you to differentiate your student in order to put forth the best application and maximize Merit Aid awards. The most money that you can get toward your college costs will come from the college itself in the form of Merit Aid Scholarships/Grants and Financial Aid.

We are here to help. We work with high-achievers, motivated students, low-income and underrepresented minorities, pre-professional students, graduate students, and those students who wish to go overseas for university. Our process was founded by Cori Dykman over 14 years ago and continued by Lee Norwood and a cohort of specialists in all things “college.”

Start now! The longer the runway, the better the take off.

“Hello everyone! My name is Charlie and I am excited to announce that I am a part of the Duke class of 2025. I am super excited about next fall, especially the FOCUS programs and the writing 101 classes that all Trinity undergrads take. The writing 101 class is basically a writing course, but each class is assigned a topic that varies from Love in Medieval Europe to Capitalism vs. the Climate. Currently, I am planning on majoring in neuroscience, and it helped that I had an idea for my major when writing my “Why Duke?” supplemental. Lee was able to help me choose schools that were right for me and guide me through the application process. What really meant a lot to me was how she supported my dreams and goals but gave me current statistics and facts to help me decide. I am so glad that I have ended up as a member of the Duke University Class of 2025, I know it is where I am meant to be!”

“Absolutely Amazing. I was really behind and had no idea where to start with all my deadlines and applications. These ladies helped me get on track and get accepted to my dream school!” Annapolis Area Christian School Student

“We’ve had a great experience with Annapolis College Consulting and would highly recommend them. Lee has done an outstanding job with our son, really taking the time to truly get to know him and helping to identify the right schools for him to apply to. It’s been an incredible help having her keep us on track and providing tons of feedback and advice on his applications and essays. All of his applications were finished Early Action which was a huge relief and weight off my son’s shoulders, and he has already been accepted to two schools that he is very excited about. We are very happy with the results of our experience with ACC and definitely feel our investment was worth it. Thank you Lee!” Severna Park Parent

Considered a new leader in the Independent Educational Consulting world, Lee has been featured on podcasts, in interviews, and she serves on industry panels.

Need help?

Contact us at www.annapoliscollegeconsulting.com or [email protected]

443-220-5750

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