From Canton to College

By Jess Hooton

Just about every fall, it feels like just about everyone is thinking about future plans. While it's mostly seniors who are feeling the stress, it's never too early to start thinking about what you want to do. The college application process is complicated, but it doesn't have to be. It's important to remember that everyone is experiencing the same thing as you right now and you're not alone! It's important to take everything one step at a time, and here are some important steps:What is right for you?Most people are unsure of what they want to do with the rest of their life as a teenager. Some people do have the fortune of knowing what they like to do, not everyone does and that's completely okay! Many schools allow students to apply with an undecided major and only declare it once they know what to do. Most schools will require students to declare their major after a certain period of time. If you have a general idea of what you want to do such as something in the school of Business or Health Sciences, then many Colleges or Universities will allow you to apply undecided under that and take classes in that school until you figure out what is right for you. Where? While it is important to find a campus that you like, it is arguably more important to choose schools that will give you the well-rounded education that you want. You should think about the things that you value and make a list including the following:

-Location relative to Canton. Growing up many people dream of going to schools far away but as they get older, realize that they would like to return home for thanksgiving or other holidays. If living further is right for you, then look into that!

-Cost: college debt is real and while you've been saving your whole life for this, it is likely that you will be in debt after school because 43.2 million Americans had student loan debt as of 2023. On this point, it is important to fill out the FAFSA which provides students with financial aid and will be available December 1st as well as the CSS if any schools you are applying to use it, which is available now! Additionally, you can find scholarships on many websites such as bold.org and under the scholarship search section of naviance.

-Your program: look at what schools are known for having successful alumni from your area of study. It's important to know if a school is going to give you the education you want!

-Type of Campus (ex. Urban or suburban): this is oftentimes something that students are more flexible on. Some people love the idea of having a quad and others love seeing a bustling city. It may not be everything, but it is important because it is where you will be for the next few years of your life. If you intend to live on campus, which some schools require from freshmen, look further into their housing.

-Student Population: do you want lecture classes or more intimate classes?

-Dining: which we all know is very important. Do current students say the food is delicious, edible, or disgusting?

-Application Process: most schools use commonapp.org, but there are a plethora of schools where you have to apply through their websites.

After setting up your common app account, make sure you pair it with your naviance account so that your guidance counselor can send your letters of recommendation. It is ideal that you ask a teacher from your junior year to write your recommendation letters and that you ask them in the spring of Junior year or early fall of Senior year. Once they have agreed to write your letter, they may ask you to fill out a form with some information so they can write you a great recommendation. You can submit a request (after you've confirmed that they will be writing it) in naviance under letters of recommendation. Some other schools will have what is called supplemental essays in addition to your personal essay. Make sure you pay attention to what schools do and do not use supplementals. In order to stand out, make sure you are being your authentic self. Don't make up what you think they want to hear, but answer the way that feels right to you. Be sure to remain within the word requirement and complete them before your deadline.There are so many deadlines to look at, so which one is right for you? Here is what they mean:

-Regular Decision: this is not binding and is normal for many people to apply at this time. Some people will apply regular if they want to add a few more schools to their list after applying early.

-Early Decision (ED): You should only apply ED if you know that you will go to that school if you get in. It is binding.

-Early Action (EA): Early action is not binding and simply allows you to receive a decision earlier. Rolling Decision: Rolling is a great example of first come first serve. You can submit your application and you will hear back from admissions depending on when you submitted.It's important to note that some schools may defer you to a different deadline. This doesn't mean you were rejected but that they have not accepted you just yet. After you apply, some schools will ask you to set up an admissions portal which you should be sure to do and check regularly.

At Canton High, we have excellent guidance counselors who are extremely helpful and are here to support you on your journey. English teachers are very resourceful when it comes to helping write your personal essay. These adults can answer the questions you may have about college applications or essays. Set up a meeting with your counselor if you need help. Best of luck to the class of 2025 in all of their applications!