Expert: Susie Watts - 1/12/2010

Question
I am a 16 year old girl in my junior year of high school. I am a starter for my varsity team, participate in student government and the art & drama program. I plan on majoring in the arts/drama or culinary arts. I am very concerned about college and what I should be doing to prepare myself. I want to apply to a variety of schools, including some Ivy league colleges. What specifically should I be doing to enrich my resume? What should I be doing that I will stand out to colleges? Are SAT prep courses effective? I am taking the SAT in the spring. I would really appreciate any advice you have on what makes students like me stand out among a sea of others. Thank you so much!

Answer
I have just written an article on this subject titled, "Good College Advice and Help for High School Juniors."  If you send me your email I will send you a copy.  Grades, test scores, rank in class, recommendations, essays probably in that order are most important.  The essay is a place where you can tell a story about yourself that is compelling.  I work with high school students just like you and try to help them become stronger college applicants.  Unfortunately, I have to charge for my services because I put a lot of hours into them.  I do have a website which might be helpful to you.  www.collegedirection.org