Panel provides advice to Princeton High School students
By: Rachel Silverman
The big, bad college application process?
Between transcripts and interviews and that dreaded little acronym of SAT, getting into the nation’s top-tier colleges can seem daunting.
But according to a panel of admissions officers gathered at Princeton High School on Wednesday night, college applications are nothing to be afraid of.
"The admissions process is really all about finding right matches," said Lisa Angeloni, a representative of The College of New Jersey. "Don’t take this too much to heart."
Addressing a packed audience of high school upperclassmen and their parents, panelist Keith Light of Princeton University agreed.
"You should really throw away the checklist with teacher-student ratio and how many books in the library," he advised the group. "You should find the place you will thrive."
The panel, which included representatives of seven public and private institutions, offered abundant advice on how to do so.
Columbia University’s David Weisbord spoke about the various application options, including early decision, regular decision and everything in between.
"Only apply early especially early decision if you are 200-percent sure it’s the school you want to be spending the next four years at," he advised the group. "If someone’s applying early just to increase their stats, that comes through real clearly in their application."
PHS Director of Guidance Lynn O’Grady, who both moderated and organized the event, said this year about half the senior class took some sort of early-decision route.
Michael DiBartolomeo of Ramapo College focused on the elements of a successful recommendation letter. He said a stellar recommendation highlights the unique qualities of a student using vivid examples and strategic buzzwords. The letter should also include mild criticism and qualifying terms, he said.
"Especially your junior year, it’s really critical to have teachers that really know you," Ms. O’Grady reminded students.
Laura Rheinauer of Dickinson College touched on other sought-after qualifications.
"Its good to show some passion in your transcript," she said. "Don’t take AP chem just because your friends are take those challenging courses that interest you."
Bucknell University’s Jennifer Hawbaker added, "Extracurriculars are one of those things that help us get past grades and test scores. We’re looking for well-rounded students."
Panelists reminded students that, although college is a serious financial investment, they should range broadly during the application process.
"You should never, ever cross a school off your list because of the sticker price," said Mr. Weisbord.
The group also tackled questions about standardized testing.
"Don’t be discouraged by a low SAT score," Mr. Rheinauer said. "Yes, the scores are important, but think of everything else going into these applications."
Helen Lewis of Rutgers University agreed.
"If that’s not your bag, find out what schools are SAT-optional," she added. "There are other options out there."

