High school juniors: start thinking beyond standardized tests and explore college options

April 10, 4:55 PMLA College Bound ExaminerEllen Richards

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Now that all is (almost) said and done for the high school seniors who will be attending college in Fall 2009, the focus will turn to high school juniors and the impact that many societal factors will have on their college admissions process.

My advice remains the same: avoid focusing on standardized tests during the upcoming weeks.  It is so easy to fall victim to the hype surrounding the controversial exams, but in the process students lose the opportunity to attend college fairs and information sessions right here in Los Angeles.

A few words of advice:

1) Remember, not only does the college choose you, you also choose the college - do your research and meet representatives any chance you get!

2) The more times you express interest in a college, the better the chances you will be admitted (all things being equal). Every time you attend a college fair or information session, make sure you complete the form to let them know you attended.  Colleges put this information in your file and track your interest.

3) As a follow-up to #2 - go online and request information from colleges - express interest early and often.

4) Do your research: know when colleges will be in town and don't miss them!  It's so easy to do when all you can think about are those standardized tests...almost seems contradictory, doesn't it?

Following are some upcoming events all high school juniors (and even sophomores) should look into:

2009 GREATER LOS ANGELES NATIONAL COLLEGE FAIR sponsored by the National Association for College Admissions Counseling

April 20, 2009, 6PM - 9PM at the Pasadena Conference Center

April 21, 2009, 9:00AM - 12:00 PM at the Pasadena Conference Center

For more information go to www.nacacnet.org.

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