On World Mental Health Day, we touched on the anxieties and insecurities that can come with navigating college admissions. There’s nothing to be ashamed of; a large majority of students are going through the same journey as you. After all, this is a time filled with a lot of change.

Before you toss your applications out the window or pull out your hair in frustration, consider this one simple tip: ask for help.

Simple, right? But is it easy for you to ask for help?

Look at it this way - whether it’s mastering the piano or taking your game to a whole new level on the field, you probably rely on a coach or teacher to help you. No matter your success in life, someone along the way has indirectly or directly helped you. College applications are a pivotal time in the start of your career; it’s literally the first step in your journey to mastering adulthood. Then, why wouldn’t you leverage the experience of experts to make sure your college applications are flawless? Think about it this way, it’s an investment in your future career.

Now, let’s say, that you are convinced and have taken the step of reaching out to a college admissions expert, how can he or she help you?

• Time management

• Deadlines approach quicker than you know. An admissions consultant can help you stay on schedule so you can focus on what needs to be done.

• Packaging ‘you’ to rise above the competition

• Everyone is unique. Don’t worry about trying to fit in a box; instead, learn how to showcase the things that make you unique so your college application stands out among the crowd.

• Demystifying the application

• At first glance, college applications are nothing short of a labyrinth, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Get a walkthrough of the application process and know you aren’t alone.

• Perfecting your essay

• College essays are very personal and crucial to getting into a top university. Allow someone to help you with the outline so you can focus on your central message as well as proofread and double-check the final product.

• Navigating financial aid

• College in America is extremely expensive. From filling out your FAFSA to merit scholarships and grants, an admissions consultant can help you attain the money you need so finances don’t hold you back.

• Choosing colleges

• There are thousands of colleges (over 4,000, in fact): Ivy leagues, Liberal art schools, Community colleges, Trade schools. Get help in building a school list with options that would be a good fit for you.

• Working around grades and test scores

• It’s normal to be concerned about your academic grade history and SAT / ACT scores, but that doesn’t mean college is out of the question for you. An admissions consultant can help you with deciding upon safety schools, target schools and reach schools.

Acceptance rates are declining meaning that it’s getting harder and harder to get in each year. Meanwhile, schools are calling for more well-rounded college applicants because of the competition. Save time, get counsel, and set yourself up for success! There’s no reason you have to take this challenge on all by yourself. Having a strong support team who have waded through the system before is an invaluable asset. Interested in creating a personalized college admissions plan with one of our counselors? Apply today to begin your college journey the right way!