Follow four real teens as they navigate the college application process—developing a solid college list, filling out applications and, hopefully, getting into their colleges of choice. Program also taps guidance counselors and university admissions officers for insider advice on the smartest steps to take in an increasingly competitive application process. Viewers learn how to catch a college’s attention: choose challenging classes, build a strong transcript, and get involved in the types of extracurriculars that colleges value. Program stresses how important it is to select the right schools to meet individual needs. When it comes time to apply, the teens and experts reveal the secrets of a winning personal statement and the benefits of standout recommendations. Also demystifies financial aid by explaining the process behind obtaining loans, grants, scholarships, and more.
Includes:
video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts and pre/post tests in digital format
DVD contains Spanish subtitles.
Reviews
A diverse group of high school students discuss their concerns about selecting the right college and getting accepted. They outline the steps to follow as they navigate the application process. Throughout the film, a high school guidance counselor and a university admissions officer weigh in with advice. Students learn the importance of laying a solid foundation by selecting the right classes in high school and becoming involved in extracurricular activities. There is discussion about how to identify the right type of school based on environment, size, cost, majors, and other factors. The importance of college entrance exams is stressed. Viewers are taken through the application process including letters of recommendation, essay writing, and early decision vs. early action plans. Each student concludes by discussing what they felt made them stand out from other applicants, the number of colleges they applied to, where they were accepted, and where they plan to attend. While little of the clearly and concisely presented information will be groundbreaking to adults, it will be new and important to high school viewers who are likely to listen to their peers. Counselors, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teachers, club leaders, and others will find this a valuable addition to their college prep arsenal.
- Lisa Hubler, Charles F. Brush High School, Lyndhurst, OH
School Library Journal
3.5 out of 4 Stars, Highly Recommended This excellent program offers a compact step-by-step guide to the whole process of preparing for, applying to, and getting into college, presented from the perspectives of four diverse high schoolers, coupled with observations from college admissions professionals. Acknowledging that the undertaking causes incrediable stresss for most juniors and seniors—whether it be from fear of the unknown, financial worries, or perceived competition—the focus here is on getting students to figure out what they want rather thanbeing overwhelmed by tests and grades. As one of the interviewees, a guidance counselor, points out, “College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won.” Viewers will learn howo to build a strong case for admission (taking challenging courses and participatingn in extracurricular activites that institutions value, for example), while also hearing tips on college selection, the application process, and final decision making. In addition, Getting In feautres insights into the financial aid side of the equation, including applying for loans, grants, and scholarships. The accompanying curriculum contains a pratical run-through for students to immediately start preparation for addmissions. Highly Recommended.
- E. Gieschen
Video Librarian