5 College Admission Pitfalls To Avoid

Thinking back to my senior year of high school, I remember my friend Kelly asking, "Did you already take the SAT?" I blinked. "What is that?" I asked. Yep, I was clueless! But in my defense, I was blazing the trail as a first-generation college student—the family guinea pig and the first to attend college—so I've long forgiven myself for my ignorance. Even though today, most high school students know what the SAT is, they're still a bit in the dark about its true importance. I see high school students tripping over the same hurdles each year. So, let’s dive into the most common blunders I witness and how to dodge them.

Mistake #1: Procrastination

Waiting too long to register for the SAT/ACT, delaying conversations about college costs, or postponing teacher recommendation requests can lead to unnecessary stress. Planning ahead is key!

Test Prep Timeline: Start studying for the SAT/ACT in January of junior year and aim to take the test by March, April, or June. Testing sites fill up fast—especially in places like San Diego County—so register early! Register for the SAT here | Register for the ACT here

Recommendation Letters: Ask your teachers for recommendations before the summer break of junior year while your accomplishments are fresh in their minds.

Financial Planning: Have an open and honest conversation with your parents about what they can afford and how financial aid works. Too often, students get into their dream schools only to hear, “We can’t afford it.” Avoid that heartbreak by understanding financial constraints early.

Application Deadlines: Don’t wait until the last minute! Set personal deadlines ahead of the actual ones to ensure you submit everything stress-free.

*Nothing says "I’m ready for the SAT" like pulling an all-nighter fueled by caffeine and regret.*

Mistake #2: Not Researching Colleges Thoroughly

I can’t tell you how many times students say they’re applying to a college simply because their friend is. That’s not a good enough reason!

Know What You Need: If you want to study engineering, look for schools with strong co-op programs that provide hands-on experience. If you’re pre-med, research medical school acceptance rates for that college.

Balance Your List: Make sure you have a mix of safety, target, and reach schools—not just big-name, highly selective universities. For example, most University of California (UC) schools are considered reach or highly selective (UCLA-obviously) due to their competitive nature. Have a realistic plan!

*"When your college list strategy is a paper fortune teller."*

Mistake #3: Overlooking Application Details

Some of the most heartbreaking mistakes I see are the smallest ones:

Choosing the wrong decision type: Students intending to apply Early Action accidentally select Regular Decision—missing the chance to hear back sooner.

Forgetting additional forms: Some colleges require the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) in addition to the Common App. If you don’t submit it, your application remains incomplete.

Ignoring emails: Colleges send important follow-ups, and missing one can mean a delayed or incomplete application. Stay on top of your inbox!

*" Your college has been trying to reach you about your missing application form."*

Mistake #4: Writing Generic Essays

Your college essay is your chance to stand out—so make it count! Many students default to overused topics like sports victories, community service, or personal hardships. But admissions officers read thousands of these.

Think Outside The Box: Some of the best essays my student's have written were about snails, Halloween , and camping trips. It’s not the topic—it’s the personal insight and storytelling that matter.

Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of saying you’re determined, describe a moment that proves it. Let the reader experience your story with you.

Get Feedback: Have a teacher, counselor, or trusted mentor review your essay before submitting it.

"I beg you… there are other moments in life besides the winning game."

Mistake #5: Ignoring Financial Aid Opportunities

Every year, students ask me about scholarships, often after applications are already in. The truth? You can start applying for scholarships as early as 9th grade!

Think Local: Parents, check with your employers to see if they offer scholarships. Students, ask your school counselor about local opportunities.

Explore Community Resources: If you’re in San Diego County, visit www.sdfoundation.org for local scholarships. If you're in another state Google, "Foundation High School Scholarships {insert county here}"

Don’t Miss Deadlines: The FAFSA and CSS Profile open on October 1st. Many schools prioritize the scholarship applications by December 1st, so apply early!

“Me, trying to find a scholarship that isn’t just for left-handed pitchers from Nebraska.”

College admissions doesn’t have to feel like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops. Start early, stay organized, and take advantage of your school’s resources—trust me, future you will thank you. From researching colleges to test prep to crafting essays that truly showcase your story, I’m here to help make this process exciting (or at least way less stressful). And remember—this is your journey. Own it!

Based in San Diego, Coach Nancy works remotely as an Educational Consultant, guiding families through the college admissions process. She lives with her husband and two doodles, Ivy and Vandal.