Monday, October 28, 2013

Common App Problems...continued

If you are using the Common Application this year, you already know that it has been plagued with problems.  We have been fortunate, however, because we submit most of our materials via Naviance, and while there have been a few problems with that system, they are nothing compared to what people have experienced on the Common App site.

Our students, on the other hand, are submitting their application through Common App, so we have a few suggestions for them.

1.  If you have a November 1 deadline, DO NOT wait until Friday, November 1 to submit your
     application.  The earlier in the week you can take of this, the better.  Even if you're college has
     extended their deadline, do no wait until the last minute to submit.

2.  You might want to avoid submitting your application during the peak hours of the day.  It may be
     9:00pm in Chattanooga, but it's 6:00pm on the west coast, and traffic is still heavy.  A better
     alternative might be first thing in the morning when the rest of the country is still asleep.  It's a
     small step, but it might work.

3.  Follow the Common Application on Facebook.  They are posting daily updates on problems and
     solutions.  Reading about all the problems others are having might make you nervous, but it is
     better to be aware of what is going on than to be in the dark.

4.  Before you panic, come see your college counselor.  There is always a solution, and we'll help
     you figure it out.

Lastly, I know it's easy for me to say, but take a deep breath and try to relax.  Everything is going to work out.  Your part of the college application process will be over soon.

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