So... After completing the recalculation process, we have to be ready to read the application, right? (all that and we’re just starting to read now??)… Each application file in our office contains a student’s Common Application, PC Supplemental Form, and an assorted number of additional credentials: the high school transcript, school report form, high school profile, guidance counselor and teacher recommendations, activity sheet, Common Application essay, PC Supplemental essay, and sometimes even a few other additional pieces. Which begs the question—where do I start?

Well for me, the first step after recalculating is completed is to take a close look at the “Applicant Data Sheet,��? which is a worksheet in each file that lists the applicant’s information (address, high school, SAT scores if submitted, etc…) and is also the place where each counselor who reads the file makes their notes and enters their decision. I proofread that sheet to make sure that all of the information we have in our database is correct (we wouldn’t want to send out an acceptance letter with a student’s name spelled incorrectly!). Now, finally, we’re going to start reading (really… I promise… tomorrow… hang on...)