Advice for Seniors re COVID-19

Whew, it’s been an interesting couple of weeks, hasn’t it? Well, whenever I am stressed or things are uncertain, two things help to keep me on track: FACTS and ACTION. The Coronavirus has caused a great deal of disruption; here is what you need to know and steps you can take.

Admissions Decisions

May 1 has traditionally been considered the deadline for students to commit to the college of their choice. Many colleges have extended this deadline to June 1; the situation is fluid as colleges respond and developments continue.

If you haven’t yet heard from colleges on your list, try to be patient. Admissions officers are doing their best to make decisions and communicate them by April 1.

If you’ve heard from colleges, but have yet to make a decision, unfortunately, most college campuses are now closed to visitors and tours are no longer possible. Here are some alternative ways to get the information you need to make your decision:

  • Watch videos on Campus Reel on your College Made Clear account to hear from students and tour campuses virtually (if you are not a CollegeMadeClear client, you can find Campus Reel here)

  • Contact colleges and ask to be connected with a current student to ask questions

  • Check out the college through its YouTube channel, LinkedIn page or social media presence.

  • Use these virtual resources: YouVisit, CampusTours and this list of virtual college visit options (colleges are adding to it daily)

  • Reach out to your Admissions Officer directly to ask any questions you have; many are available and offering to speak one-on-one through videoconference or by phone

  • Review your original “top ten” list of needs. Is it still accurate? Which colleges address each need most completely?

  • Check your portal for email regarding any change in decision deadlines

  • You may also find these resources helpful to provide some perspective: How to make college decisions when campuses are closed - NYTimes article and ​How COVID-19 will affect the 2020 Admissions Cycle - Forbes article

If you have made your decision, now’s the time to:

  • Let other colleges know

  • Check your portal for news about admitted student events; many have been canceled or moved to an online format

  • Stay focused on your studies. Engaging in your coursework will not only give you something to do but colleges still want to see your second semester grades; show them you can persevere through challenging times.

Testing

While some current and future SAT and ACT test dates have been canceled or rescheduled, these generally don't affect most seniors. No announcement has been made yet about AP tests. Here is the latest news https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/about-ap/news-changes/coronavirus-update and as I am notified, I will let you know.

Wherever you are in the process, try to be patient, check your college portals frequently and reach out  to a trusted friend or adult if you need to talk it over or just vent.

Hang in there - the Coronavirus does not define you and soon, we will be looking at this situation through the rear view mirror.

Keep calm and stay CLEAR!