So you’re engaged in “social distancing” for the time being (at least, I hope you are). As it’s an important time of year in college admission preparations for Juniors, how does the coronavirus affect you and and does it affect your outlook?
The answer is clear as mud at this point.
So as to best prepare once the dust hopefully settles, here’s what you can be doing:
Utilize this time to engage in free resources for SAT/ACT prep. My personal favorite is through Khan Academy, and it can be linked to your existing College Board account for SAT score diagnosis. Daily test prep for vocabulary and math skills can keep you sharp and help you prepare for flip-side activity. You can take Khan Academy anywhere you have internet access, so it’s even more valuable!
Check your ACT/SAT registration dates. If you’ve already registered for the April ACT (or this past Saturday’s SAT), then it’s likely on-hold for the time being. Understand that phone and contact lines are likely overloaded at the moment, so be patient; College Board and ACT will be flexible for obvious reasons. It’s possible that we’ll be on the downswing of the coronavirus by mid-April, so hold your existing reservations. If we’re still engaged in suggested social distancing, then stay on-top of notifications and alerts that discuss possible make-up dates down the line. THERE WILL BE FLEXIBILITY.
If you’re in any AP classes, then check out College Board’s update for instructional support and be on the lookout for exam updates.
Keep track of your activities. While social distancing is paramount, make a list of things to possibly do to keep track of all that you’re doing while you have time at home. Here are just a few suggestions off the top of my head:
Have you developed a reading interest? If so, write about it!
Become a movie critic! As you have time on the couch, document your movie watching and give reviews!
How about art? Any drawings or sculptures you can make?
Read historical context and non-fiction. I personally suggest reading up about the flu pandemic that affected us in 1918.
Do some indoor PE, if necessary. The “sound body, sound mind” principle works here; if you’re reasonably active, are getting rest, and are eating reasonably well, then you’ll not only maintain better health, but you’ll also be in a better frame of mind to learn once normalcy returns. Rain aside, try to get some fresh air outside whenever possible as long as you keep social distance in-mind.
Stay on-top of your schoolwork. If your school has closed for the time-being, then be on the lookout for updates for return. Other districts have gone to an e-learning platform, so stay engaged by setting aside designated time for your studies. This goes without saying, but as Junior year ends, your grades will still matter. Finish strong!
Virtual college tours: I typically suggest that Juniors begin or continue to make official visits to colleges this time of year and on into the summer months. COVID-19 has provided an obvious exception. That said, some colleges are still open for daily visits in very small groups, and I also suggest that you utilize the virtual tour circuit for some exposure. It’s not the same as an actual visit, but given the circumstances, it’s a nice alternative. For example, SMU has information about daily visits and campus tours. UT-Dallas has a virtual guided tour, and Texas Tech will specifically register you for one that can help add “demonstrated interest” when you apply down the line. There are countless others across the country, so even if you’re not interested in a particular school, utilize the time to at least compare the virtual feel of campus as related to other schools.
We WILL come out of this, and life WILL eventually move-on. What you do in the meantime can help you re-start and stay ahead of the game once the dust settles, and quite honestly, then initiative will help you stand out in next year’s application process. As you work to maintain your health and that of others, take the time to keep sharp and be prepared. You’ll be glad you did.
As well, I’m available to work/consult VIRTUALLY on an individual basis. My services are available via FaceTime, Skype, or other available platforms as necessary. If you’d like individual guidance for your specific needs/situation, then I will discount the normal consultation fee. This way, we can responsibly observe social distancing while staying prepared and ahead of the game. Contact me if you’d like to set up a virtual appointment!