Should I answer that optional writing question on Common App about COVID? 

Maybe. Everyone experienced COVID; some were affected much more severely than others. If you were, then please discuss that, e.g. death, job loss, health problems, or challenges learning. If, by the way, your high school was fully remote or half time, you had less school time than many others, and I encourage you to write about that as well. 

The Additional Information section confuses me-- is that for problems or for bragging?  

It could be for either or both. This section predates COVID and can be a place to add additional information that is distinct. Again, as above, if you have challenges to explain about your high school situation, use the space here.

 Be careful about discussing mental health challenges, as schools can hold that information against you. 

Also, this is a place to add more positive material, e.g. showcasing an art portfolio or music performances when you aren’t separately applying through a portfolio or audition process.  

Do I really need to write a resume?

No, you don’t. Some kids really need additional space to show what they have accomplished, but most students can show all that well in the activities list, and most colleges don’t want to see more. Common exceptions to this include a music/arts resume and a resume for a student applying to a direct-admit business program. 

Social media-- are colleges really going to check mine out? 

This is a good time to remind you to clean up your social media: TikTok, FB, Instagram, Twitter, Twitch. If you have a public face, make sure it is one you want colleges to see. And if you don’t already have a LinkedIn profile, go ahead and get that started to prepare for college internships. 

College Application Deadlines and Requirements

Still have questions? Check out my blog post that explains every application deadline and its restrictions. 

More Admissions Help:

We covered all these topics and more in our twice-monthly small group coaching program for seniors, CTK College Access. Next month we’ll be tackling how to track all those submitted applications and how to schedule and prepare for interviews. View the full list of monthly-topics we cover in our group sessions.