A Complete Application....ALREADY!

Wow! Is it really that time again? In just a few weeks the class of 2013 will arrive on at Albright. This year's freshman class is the largest and possibly most talented group of students we've ever welcomed. Their average SATs and GPAs are higher than any class in recent history, they've been awarded more scholarship money than any class in the College's 200+ years of existence, and their extracurricular talents are too numerous to mention. Simply put, it's another exciting August at Albright. There's nothing like welcoming in a class at the college!!!!!

Work on the class of 2014 started long ago, but when I get my first complete application of the year, I realize that the college admission cycle never stops revolving. This year the first completed application arrived in my mailbox on June 17th, a little earlier than usual. I don't know how a student can get all their application pieces together and mailed out over the summer, but this student did. And so the application season begins.......kind of. You see, we do not start making admission decisions until October 1. So when I get an application this early, I just call and thank the applicant for their interest and remind them that decision will not start (in this case) for over 3 months!

Early applications are great. I always recommend applying early to get the stress of completing the applications off your shoulders and to insure as early a response as possible. However, I must define early. June is not necessary. I don't condemn a June applications, but it doesn't really benefit the applicant. I would define getting your application in early as getting it in by October. That gives you enough time to work with your guidance office on mailing all the pieces out, polishing your essay or personal statement, and permitting recommenders enough time to complete their letters.

Good luck with those applications. Don't forget about the Common Application, it is a great toll that will save you time!