College Submission Deadlines are Creeping Up!
Seniors in high school, Halloween has already passed by! Now that you’ve enjoyed yourself at parties and celebrations, the time to get moving on your Common Application (App) and your other college submissions is NOW! The clock is ticking, but you still have time to organize yourself!
Breathe, relax, and start putting aside time each night for these college essays and research. You have approximately eight (8) weeks to get your act together. So, the first thing you’ll want to do is print out a blank calendar and start jotting down the important dates. Having this in front of you will help you see the goals you’re working on first thing every morning.
Better yet, there is now a free app called Common App onTrack. This will help you stay organized and will be a great support while you are going through your college application process. This wonderful tool will help give you reminders, notifications, and deadlines to help you stay on track!
Two important places to visit on line are the Common App Media video on Youtube called “Deadline Reminders” as well as the ACT/SAT registration deadlines at collegeboard.org and act.org. BE AWARE: the registration deadline for the December 9, 2017 ACT testing date is NOVEMBER 3RD! The next testing date is February 10, 2018 with a registration deadline of January 12, 2018. As for the SAT Test on December 2nd, NOVEMBER 2ND is the late registration deadline! So, take time right now to read and register for any tests needed. 
Once you take a look at the youtube video about filling out your Common Application, you can go on commonapp.org and learn about all the wonderful ways their new mobile app can help you through this exciting process.
Now that you’ve created a calendar and uploaded your mobile app to keep you organized on deadlines, it is imperative that you start carving out time for your essays and applications. With only 8 weeks until New Year’s Day, start planning your essay writing on the 8 weekends. Yes, the holidays are approaching, but if you want to make your deadlines for the colleges you are interested in, you must put yourself first. You are so lucky! Thanksgiving and Winter breaks are approaching. It is so important to use those days to get prepared for your deadlines. Let your parents, family, and friends know you are under deadlines and must put your work first. There will be time for turkey, traditions, and gifts, but remember, once these dates go by, that is it. There are no excuses that will help you if you miss the deadline dates. 
As you write your essays in the evenings and on the weekends, be sure to find an editor or ask your English teachers politely if they would take their time to review your essays and give you feedback. Set this up immediately because at certain points, some teachers will state that they cannot look at anymore essays. Remember, a small gift for using their time and experience is appropriate.
The time is ticking quickly, but you still have more than enough time to finish the college registration process. Don’t give up! Stick to it! Most of all, try to enjoy the process. Good luck on your future endeavors!
