Does applying to college look daunting? We’ve compiled a list of college application tips to help you in the process.

• Make contact. Reach out to the admissions office, to one of our student ambassadors, or to a staff member in your department of interest. Forge a personal connection by letting them know of your interest in attending Sattler. Now is the time to ask any questions you may have. “Students who reach out stand out to our admissions team as proactive individuals,” said Austin Lapp, Sattler’s director of admissions. “Applicants with that kind of initiative are those we are looking for.”

• Include high-quality references. Choose references who know you well, preferably over a length of time. Someone who has acted as your mentor would be an excellent choice. You will need to include at least one academic reference, preferably a teacher from the recent past. If you’re homeschooled, your academic reference can be a family member. Don’t forget to follow up on your request for a reference with a personal thank you note to each person who gave you one.

• Be authentic and bold. The essay portion of Sattler’s application asks for two essays: one personal statement introducing yourself and your values and one response essay. For the response essay, you will be asked to respond to one of three prompts (see the application for the responses). Take a point of view and show us why your point of view matters. Rather than looking for agreement with the prompt content, we are looking for analysis, critical thinking, and sound argumentation. The personal statement is your opportunity to tell us about your experiences, skills, and aspirations. The admissions team is not only looking for a well-written essay, but for unique content. We want to get a feel for who you are as a person. When you’ve finished your essays, proofread them and ask a teacher, friend, or parent to critically evaluate them before submitting them.

• Share your accomplishments. Along with the required materials, feel free to send any awards you’ve earned or information about yourself that makes you stand out or shows where you are unique.

• Be honest about deficiencies. So maybe you have a terrible GPA or bombed your standardized tests. Don’t be afraid to address that deficiency and give it your best explanation. An older student, for example, might explain that he has been out of school for a long time and is shaky on some technical skills. Another applicant might say that she experienced family issues during high school that kept her from doing her best. Whatever the explanation, be sure to explain how you’ve addressed the issue and how you plan to move forward.
• Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before you begin your application or during the process of filling it out.

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Are you a homeschooler wondering if college is right for you? Download The Homeschooler’s Guide to College: Everything You Need to Know about Applying, Deciding, and Preparing for School.