Unit 1
:
Preparing to Apply to College
This unit helps students understand the college admissions process while reflecting on their personal motivations for pursuing higher education. Students explore the value of a college education, set admissions-related goals, and consider diverse perspectives about college. They learn about application requirements, admission plans (early, regular, and rolling), the roles of college admissions offices, and the importance of building both a support system and a network. The unit also prepares students to navigate recommendation letters, understand test-optional policies, and develop strategies for standardized testing and effective application writing, including brainstorming, drafting, revising, and selecting essay topics that highlight their strengths.
Students also learn how to prepare for college admissions over time by identifying tasks that should be completed in grades 9-11 versus 12th grade, creating a personalized application timeline, and organizing application materials. In addition, they explore the concept of college fit by evaluating factors such as affordability, academics, campus life, location, size, and extracurricular opportunities. By the end of the unit, students will be equipped to manage the admissions process, identify colleges that align with their preferences and goals, and present a strong, organized application.
Lesson 1: Your Motivations for Attending College
Why do I want to attend college? Why is a college education important? What personal goal do I have related to the college admissions process? What perspectives about College should I consider?
Lesson 2: The College Application Process
What goes into a college application? What are the three main application pools? What interactions might I have with other people during the application experience? What are the roles of university offices that are involved in the college admissions process?
Lesson 3: Your College Admissions Support System
What’s the difference between a network and a support system? Why are they valuable during the college admissions process? Who is in my support system for college admissions?
Lesson 4: Standardized Tests & Letters of Recommendation
How can I prepare my recommenders? What does “test-optional admissions” mean, and how do I determine the testing policy of a college? Should I take a standardized test? How do I formulate a standardized test strategy?
Lesson 5: Essay Topics & Supplemental Essays
How do I write effectively in ny applications and write for a specific audience and purpose? How do I choose essay topics that align with my strengths and goals? What process can help my writing?
Lesson 5.5: College Preparation & Advance Work on Applications
This is a special lesson for students in grades 9-11 who are looking ahead to college applications.
How do I prepare academically for college, before 12th grade? What college application tasks can I accomplish now?
Lesson 6: Your College Admissions Timeline and Organization System
What files and other application components will I need to manage? How do I build an organized system for college admissions that is aligned with my college application goals? How do I develop a personalized timeline of tasks related to the college admissions process?
Lesson 7: College Categories and the Concept of “Fit”
What is “college fit” and why is it important? What are my preferences as they pertain to college fit? How do I determine if colleges on my list match my preferences? What factors can help determine college fit?
