The College Application Road

Hey Everybody,

I'm Juleigh. This is my first blog and I thought some of the younger followers might benefit from hearing about my college application road. It has been a long journey, but since receiving my acceptance letters it has been a worth while journey.

It all starts with picking up good study skills in middle school. Students have to learn how to study for tests and write well. While in middle school you should start to realize your strengths and weaknesses. I know personally I do well at writing, math, and creating well done, appealing projects. I'm not as great at speed reading or multiple choice tests. So, knowing my weakness I know to take more time at reading passages and slow down when taking multiple choice tests. Being an effective student means focusing and putting more effort into your areas of weakness and your continuing to put effort into your strengths.

With the economy these days students the previously might have attended a private school and now don't have enough money are now attending public universities and those who could have afforded attending a public university and now can't afford it are now attending community colleges or technical schools. So the competetiveness of applying has increased.

Colleges want well rounded and cultural students. My application to the University of Washington had this prompt "The University of Washington seeks to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints. How would you contribute to this community?" I responded with "My adoption from China has helped me become more culturally aware. I recognize everybody has a different story to tell the world. Since my adoption I have sought out ways to help other kids like me. I have financially supported a child's education in China for the last six years. I also am an active Teen Ambassador for G2 Global Girls/Chinese Adoptee Links International..."

Sometimes I feel like colleges expect too much for students. I recently presented my Senior culminating project and in my power point I listed a few of the things I've been involved with while in high school. The first question I received from my evaluator was "When do you sleep?" Colleges and universities want students to be involved in clubs, sports, fine arts, and community service, but there are only 24 hours in a day and sports require daily practices.

My freshman year I was Washington State Senate Page. I marched in the Show Band. Sophomore year I was selected as a Camp Counselor for a local elementary school. I swam for the Varsity Swim Team at school and marched in the Show Band again, both activities were during the fall. I was in the Wind section for the Orchestra. The summer before Junior year I went to Colorado with Jennifer, Ann, and Julia to attend the ADOPTEEN CONFERENCE. Junior year I went to Washington DC to march in the Cherryblossom Parade. I did the same thing during the fall and participated in Varsity Swimming and Band. I went to state for the first time in a Relay. Again I participated in the Wind section for orchestra. I was a Link Leader. I also swam for a local club swim team. The summer before Senior Year I started working at a local country club as a lifeguard/swim instructor. This year I was the Link Leader Treasurer. I swam for the Varsity swim team again. Right after state, I joined a local Crew Team.

Now, I'm not saying you won't get into college if you have no activities, but I will say its a good idea to think about getting involved in some activities outside of the class room. Activities are also a great way to get involved and connected with your school and your peers.

Alright now that I've rambled enough...Here is the down and dirty about the college application process.
1) Its a long process. BE PATIENT! This week I just got my 2/2 acceptance letters.

2) Narrowing your search earlier helps save money. Most college application has a $50+ fee in addition to your application.

3) Create a bond with teachers and your counselor, they can write you letters of recommendation for your admissions or scholarships.

4) Write well thoughtout essays. Have your parents, teachers, or friends edit your essay. I had 9 pairs of eyes look at my UW essay. I wanted to submit the BEST essay. When I was done I was so proud of it.

5) Its okay to go to community college. Community college wasn't a good fit for me since I knew exactly what I want, but some people need more time to think through what they like to study. Or the funding for a university just isn't there.

6) Getting denied is OKAY too! Colleges select kids based on who they feel will best fit at their institution. Everything happens for a reason.

7) Be prepared to work. High school is over, but the work will still be there. Keep your mind active.

8) Just because you haven't heard back right away doesn't mean you are denied. Many major universities have thousands of applications to sift through.

9) Save money!! College is EXPENSIVE. Pick up a part-time job. Apply for scholarships

10) Think about where you see yourself and where you think you'll work the best.


Hope this helps those of you applying to colleges.
This past fall I applied to the University of Idaho and the University of Washington. I've been accepted to both and I have made my decision to attend the UW and cox for their Crew Team. I'm a coxswain, meaning I steer and help move the boat in an affective, together manner. I'm really excited about the next chapter in my life.