Table of Contents
Acknowledgments xi
Introduction xiii
How to Use This Book xvi
Part I High School Résumé
Chapter 1 Knowing Where and When to Start 3
Chapter 2 Choosing High School Classes 9
Chapter 3 Choosing High School Extracurricular Activities 16
Chapter 4 Preparing During the Summer 23
Chapter 5 Understanding Standardized Testing 27
Part II Logistics of Applying to College
Chapter 8 Staying Proactive and Starting Early 41
Chapter 7 Organizing Everything 47
Chapter 8 Demonstrating Interest and "Playing the Game" 52
Chapter 9 Visiting Colleges 58
Chapter 10 Making a College List 71
Chapter 11 Recognizing College Criteria: What Do Colleges Consider? 84
Chapter 12 Hooks and Ways of Enhancing Your Application 94
Chapter 13 Getting Letters of Recommendation 104
Chapter 14 Using Common Application, Naviance, Universal Application, Coalition for Access, and More 111
Chapter 15 Interviewing 118
Chapter 16 Writing Essays and Supplements 123
Chapter 17 Assessing Types of Applications and Responses 130
Chapter 18 Procuring Financial Aid 148
Part III Mental Health
Chapter 19 Maintaining Positivity and Optimism 161
Chapter 20 Keeping Your Mouth Shut! 164
Chapter 21 Parenting Throughout the Process 173
Chapter 22 Mulling the Future 180
Chapter 23 Keeping the Proper Perspective 187
Chapter 24 Knowing What I Did Right 191
Chapter 25 What I Wish I Had Done Differently 194
Chapter 26 Tips for Incoming First-Year College Students 197
Chapter 27 Amanda's Archive (Amanda's Common App Essay and Sample "Why" Supplement) 203
Epilogue 207
About the Authors 210
Index 212