The Paw Print

Alright seniors, it’s that time of year: college applications. With the November 1st early action and early decision deadline looming, tension is rising in Payton’s Class of 2014.

You cannot walk down the hall without hearing something about a GPA, the next SAT/ACT test date, or a college essay. Some people at the top of their game and already have their applications finished, while others have yet to make an account on the Common Application. Still, don’t worry if you are in the Procrastinator’s Club when it comes to college applications.

Head in to your counselor’s office straight away for some advice! In an interview, one of Payton’s counselor’s, Mr. Paulsen, reminded us that “counselors are meeting with students during September, both individually and through enrichment, so they can help the student create a list that matches preferences and includes good financial fits. Students should also take advantage of the college representative visits at Payton this fall.” A complete list of colleges that are visiting Payton can be found on Naviance under the College tab.

In the chart below are some test dates you’re going to want to keep your eye on (late registration deadlines can be pretty costly). Check college websites to see when the latest date is that you can take the test and still have those scores be considered when applying; some will consider tests taken in the same month as the application deadline. Also, keep in mind that you cannot take the SAT and SAT Subject Tests on the same day.

Remember, don’t stress about your college applications. You will be able to get everything done. Just set aside some time every weekend to work on applications, essays, and registering for tests. Thousands of students have applied and gotten into college, and thousands more will after you.

We’re all in this together, seniors.

*Information from CollegeBoard and ACT websites