Dream College, Dream Job: Do You List Your Dream School on the Common App?
Let’s be real, applying to college is a stressful experience. It’s like navigating a jungle of essays, standardized tests, and endless paperwork, all while trying to keep your sanity (and your GPA) intact. And amidst all this chaos, there’s one question that leaves many students feeling lost: Do you list your dream college on the Common App?
You might be thinking, “Is this even a real question? Of course, I list my dream college!” But hold your horses, young Padawan. It’s not as straightforward as it seems.
The short answer is: It depends.
Here’s the breakdown:
The Common App is like a universal application form for colleges. It’s a convenient way to apply to multiple schools without having to fill out separate forms for each one.
But not all colleges accept the Common App. There are a few notorious outliers, like the State University of New York (SUNY), California State University (CSU), Brigham Young University, and the United States Military Academies, who prefer their own application systems.
So, before you get carried away and list your dream school on the Common App, make sure they actually accept it!
Now, let’s get into the real meat of the matter: Should you list your dream college on the Common App?
Here’s the thing: there’s no right or wrong answer. It depends on your individual circumstances and what you hope to achieve.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Your chances of acceptance: If you have a strong academic record and are confident in your application, listing your dream school on the Common App can’t hurt. It shows you’re serious about attending their institution.
- Your backup plans: It’s always wise to have backup colleges in mind. You might not get into your dream school, so it’s a good idea to apply to a few other schools that you genuinely like, just in case.
- Your financial situation: College is expensive, and some schools are much more affordable than others. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to prioritize applying to schools that offer generous financial aid packages.
Here’s the deal: you don’t want to put all your eggs in one basket.
Let’s imagine a scenario: You’re a high-achieving student with a passion for astrophysics. You’re dead set on attending MIT, but you also like Caltech and Stanford.
Here’s a realistic approach:
- Research: Make sure all three schools accept the Common App.
- Apply: Fill out the Common App and send it to all three schools.
- Don’t get hung up on your dream school: While you might be most excited about MIT, remember that Caltech and Stanford are fantastic universities. Treat each application seriously and showcase your best self.
You never know what might happen! You could get accepted to all three, or you might get rejected from your dream school but accepted to another great option.
But what about the “future plans” section?
The Common App asks you about your career aspirations. This is your chance to shine! Colleges want to know that you’re ambitious and have a plan for your future.
Don’t be afraid to go big!
If you dream of being a neuroscientist, tell them! If you aspire to be a world-renowned chef, let them know!
Pro tip:
Be concrete and specific.
Instead of saying “I want to be a doctor,” state “I want to be a cardiothoracic surgeon specializing in pediatric heart transplants.”
Show them you’ve done your research and that you’re passionate about your chosen field.
Remember: your future plans section is your opportunity to showcase your personality and aspirations. It’s also a chance to show colleges that you’re a well-rounded individual with a clear vision for the future.
However, be mindful of timing.
The Common App is for your current accomplishments, not future ones.
If you’re planning on starting a non-profit in the future, it’s not appropriate to mention it on the Common App. However, if you already have a volunteer project you’ve led, you can definitely list it.
Here’s a little secret: You can always update your application later.
After you submit your application and you’ve achieved something notable, you can send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) to the colleges you’re most interested in.
This is your chance to highlight your latest accomplishments and reiterate your interest in their program.
Think of the LOCI as an opportunity to make a last-minute impression.
Applying to college with the Common App is a journey, not a sprint. It takes time, effort, and a good dose of patience.
By using the Common App wisely and showcasing your unique personality and aspirations, you can increase your chances of getting into the college of your dreams!
Need more help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the college application jungle, don’t worry! There are plenty of resources available to help you.
Connect with us at JobLoving! We have a community of experts who can answer all your questions and provide guidance along the way.
Remember, you’re not alone in this process!