College application season is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many moving parts. For students at Eastlake High School in Sammamish, WA, the process involves balancing academics, extracurriculars, and future goals. As a Seattle area senior photographer, I work with many high school seniors navigating this exciting milestone. Having a solid plan can make all the difference, and I’m here to share some key tips to help you prepare for college applications with confidence.
Give Yourself A Boost With These Tips For Eastlake High School Students Prepping For College Applications
Take Challenging Classes and Maintain a Good GPA
Colleges want to see that you’ve challenged yourself academically. Taking AP or honors courses can show admissions officers that you’re prepared for college-level work. At Eastlake High School, students have access to a variety of rigorous courses that can make your application stand out. Remember, maintaining a strong GPA throughout your senior year is crucial, as many colleges consider mid-year transcripts during the admissions process.
Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities
Extracurriculars are a great way to showcase your passions and leadership skills. Whether you’re part of a sports team, the debate club, or a volunteer organization, these activities highlight your commitment and character. Eastlake High School offers a wide range of clubs and organizations to explore. Admissions officers love seeing students who actively contribute to their school and community. So be sure to list these achievements on your application.
Take The SAT or ACT
Standardized tests remain an important part of the college admissions process, even with some schools becoming test-optional. Preparing for the SAT or ACT can help strengthen your application and open doors to scholarship opportunities. Consider taking the test more than once to improve your score, and make use of study resources offered by your school or online. Eastlake students should also check with their school counselors for local testing dates and registration information.
Visit Colleges
College visits are a valuable way to learn more about the schools you’re applying to. Walking around campus, attending information sessions, and talking to current students can give you insight into whether a college is the right fit. If travel isn’t an option, many universities now offer virtual tours. For Eastlake High School seniors, planning visits early can help you narrow down your list and feel more confident about your choices.
Apply for Scholarships
Paying for college is often one of the biggest concerns for students and families, but there are countless scholarships available to help ease the financial burden. From local community organizations to national opportunities, scholarships can make a significant difference. Start by asking Eastlake’s counseling office for a list of local options, and don’t forget to research online databases like Fastweb or College Board.
I Hope These Eastlake High School College Application Prep Tips Help You Land Your Dream School
Preparing for college applications can feel like a daunting task. But with the right mindset and tools, it’s a rewarding journey. For Eastlake High School seniors, focusing on academics, extracurriculars, and thoughtful applications can set you on a path to success.
As a Seattle area senior photographer, I love working with seniors to create portraits that reflect their unique personalities and dreams for the future. Your senior year is a time to celebrate all you’ve accomplished, and I look forward to the next chapter. Let’s connect and capture this incredible milestone together!
