Robert Seltzer: An insider's guide to college admissions

Robert Seltzer  —  9/20/2008 7:03 am

As I travel around Wisconsin, the question I hear more than any other is, "What does it take to get into UW-Madison?"

It's not an easy question to answer because earning a seat in our freshman class isn't an easy thing to do. It takes hard work -- over a student's entire high school career and when completing the application itself.

While gaining admission to UW-Madison or any other selective university isn't easy, it's also not impossible. Years of experience, both as a director of admissions and as the parent of a college-bound student, have given me some good insights on what it takes to be successful when applying to college. Here are a few tips that should work for almost every student getting ready to apply to college this fall:

Start early:

UW-Madison began accepting applications on Sept. 15. The online application is available now. This year, we're also offering two notification periods to help students gauge when they'll receive their admissions decision. Complete your application by Nov. 15 and you'll have your decision by Jan. 15. Complete by Feb. 1 and you'll hear by March 15.

Take time with the essays:

With more than 25,000 qualified students applying for to UW-Madison each year, I cannot overstate the importance our two essays play in our application review and decision-making process. Use the statements to distinguish yourself, help us to know you beyond your GPA and test score, and give us a reason to offer you admission to Wisconsin.

Proofread:

Applying to college is about putting your best foot forward. You wouldn't wear flip-flops to a job interview and you shouldn't submit your application before you double-check everything.

Pay attention to deadlines:

Feb. 1 is our application deadline and May 1 is the enrollment deposit deadline for admitted students. There are additional deadlines for housing and financial aid. Don't let them pass you by.

Don't obsess:

It's easy to get caught up in the college admissions frenzy. Don't. Apply to the colleges that make sense for you. Be realistic and have confidence in your academic record and experiences. There is not just one right college for anyone. You'll find your place.

Perform senior year:

Don't apply and then kick back. Senior year matters, so don't slack off. We'll look to see what you plan to take senior year, and we absolutely review final transcripts for all admitted students. Every year we revoke the admission of five or six students who did not finish strong.

Think ahead:

Lastly, it's never too early to begin thinking about college. I encourage eighth-graders to consider their college plans, start visiting campuses, and make a plan for their course work and standardized tests.

While I can't give you the golden key to the college of your choice, I hope I can help you find your way through the admissions process. The college application season can be a challenging and stressful time -- for students, parents, high school counselors, admissions counselors, and even directors of admission. Plan ahead, take your time, keep some perspective, and one year from now, you'll find yourself starting your college career in exactly the right place for you.

Robert Seltzer is the University of Wisconsin-Madison director of admissions.

Robert Seltzer  —  9/20/2008 7:03 am