How-To: College Applications

October 27, 2026 - Milania Hood (12)

“I’ll start writing it this weekend.” Almost every high school senior says this during the Common App season. I said the exact same thing about writing this article. But instead of procrastinating, let me start by setting a good example of what the college essay process looks like, and how you can finalize an admissions-ready profile.

If I’ve learned anything over the course of high school, it’s that you don’t need to know the perfect words just to begin. One of the biggest hurdles to writing a personal statement is simply not knowing what or when to write. But the hardest, most important step is just sitting down for 20 minutes to get something on the page. Start by typing whatever comes to mind based on your prompt, and let it flow without revising as you go; anything can be edited later.

As you craft your draft, focus on showing rather than just telling. Admissions officers don’t want a point-blank autobiography; the most interesting stories focus on your life beyond academics and are told by setting the scene. Make your essay a journey of how you overcame a defining obstacle to become a beaming student, defined by the passion and growth that will equip you for the future. You aren’t alone in this, either. The Common App releases its prompts early to help you find a stepping stone, and peers, staff, and online resources like College Essay Guy are available to help you refine your work.

Of course, your application is more than just a personal statement. You will also need to submit activity lists, resumes, and potentially test scores. Together, your essay and your academic profile show the admissions committee who you are.  To many top colleges, you might be the 30th president of a specific club they’ve seen that day, but you could be the first who added a “custom clothing design portfolio inspired by Black activism” to your resume. Be unique, and don’t skimp on the major details that define your character and growth. Show them how you’ve evolved from a naive underclassman into someone who will make a real impact on campus.

Finally, don’t allow a test score to define you. Consult with a counselor, alumni, or current students to decide whether or not it’s optimal to submit yours. If a score enhances your profile, include it. But if you have a strong GPA and rigorous coursework, let those achievements speak for you. Especially depending on the average scores of the school you’re targeting.

Ultimately, the hardest part of applying to college is simply getting started. By diving in without fear, showing your personal growth through both your essay and your unique activities, seeking guidance when you need it, and making smart choices about your test scores, you build a complete picture of who you are. Senior year is the end of the beginning. Soon enough, decision day will arrive, and you will look back proud that you gave it your all.