Tips and tricks to conquer college applications

Amanda Quintela, Arts and Entertainment Editor

September 17, 2025

Four years of time, work, and dedication are all compiled into one document that will determine the future of almost every teenager. From August to September, seniors at Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) follow the same routine: working to craft the best college application possible.

On top of homework, SATs, ACTs, and extracurriculars, it may be difficult to balance application season with your daily obligations. This stressful period may seem overwhelming; however, with the right tips and strategies, it may not be as daunting.

Tip #1: Start as early as possible

The application process is lengthy and can take multiple hours to complete. Rather than procrastinating, split up each element of the process over multiple weeks. An hour a day will allow you to fulfill other activities while progressively working on the application until it is finalized.

For example, focus solely on general information, such as your profile, family, and activities for one week, and shift your concerns towards the testing, writing, and grades section during another week. This will allow you to center your attention on certain parts of the application rather than bombarding yourself with numerous aspects in one time frame.

PPCHS guidance counselor Mrs. Maycock shares her advice: “Make a schedule and keep a good pace going through the process [because] it’s long. Don’t stop until you’re finished, and this doesn’t necessarily mean in one sitting, but just make sure you have a plan.”
Tip #2: Do your research

Every university is searching for specific characteristics within its applicants. Identifying what appeals to each college can serve as a major advantage in the long run. For example, Florida State University (FSU) seeks applicants who embody its core values: strength, skill, and character. They want students who are willing to take risks to be successful in their future careers.

It may also be helpful to look into the basic requirements for each university, such as grade point average, required high-school courses, and information regarding being test-optional. This can allow students to designate where they apply their effort during high school, whether it be participating in significant clubs or taking rigorous classes.
Tip #3: College essay

Harvard recommends that students write with authenticity in their essays. The college essay is not meant to be a brag sheet or a sob story about your past traumas. Rather, it’s an opportunity to showcase your genuine self and creative mind: who you are, what you stand for, and what goals you strive to accomplish.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should avoid writing about a difficult time in your life, but you must tie it into your growth as an individual and discuss how it had a positive impact. Another suggestion is to ‘show, don’t tell.’ Using vivid imagery and descriptive vocabulary can create an immersive experience for readers, putting them in your shoes.
Tip #4: Ask for help

With so much information to fill out, students may get overwhelmed and confused. However, this can easily be avoided with just a bit of extra guidance.

Requesting assistance from the PPCHS BRACE Advisor Ms Perez, is easily accessible through the ‘PPCHS School Counseling’ module on Canvas. Here, you can schedule a one-on-one meeting with Perez and review your application together.

Perez also hosts a weekly college lab that “helps students along the way with Common App and particular questions. I ensure that [students] know what to plug in [to the questions] so there isn’t any doubt. The lab is for support, help, and guidance during this crazy application process.”

Another option is to approach your English teachers for assistance with your college essay. Mrs. Koch and Dr. Phillips, among others, offer insightful suggestions to their current and past students to help aid the overall process and improve the quality of students’ writing.
Tip #5: Virtual tours

If you weren’t able to attend the college tour trip during junior year, a virtual tour may pique your interest. Signing up for an online tour of your top universities offers a unique perspective of each school, demonstrating the variety of majors they offer as well as the beauty of the campus. This experience can also help you narrow down your choices on decision day.

Sometimes, the biggest trick to success is simply taking a moment to breathe and finding your motivation. Although application season is stressful, this is the hardest part of senior year, so enjoy it while it lasts, cherish the difficult moments, and celebrate once it’s finally done.

About the Contributors

Amanda Quintela, Arts and Entertainment Editor

Hi, my name is Amanda, I’m a senior, and this is my third year in The CHAT. I am this year’s Arts and Entertainment editor, and I’m so excited for the series of pop culture moments to come in 2025! I love doing CrossFit, writing, listening to music, and watching romcoms. I can’t wait to see what senior year holds for me! If you need to contact me, you can email me at [email protected].

Justin Betancourt, Graphics Editor

Hey! I’m Justin, the CHAT’s Graphic Editor! This is my 2nd year as graphic editor and my 3rd year in the CHAT. When I’m not designing graphics for the newspaper, I love to draw, play guitar, woodwork, hangout with my friends and professionally design graphics for clients in my free time! I’m looking forward to contributing my all this year! Don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected]

CHAT News

CHAT News

CHAT News

Tips and tricks to conquer college applications

CHAT News

Comments (0)