Have you found yourself at the beginning of your college application journey? Or maybe you’re starting your junior year, wanting to get a head start on preparing for the process which can feel like a full-time job at times. 

We asked current American University (AU) students their best tips for making the most of your summer in preparation for college applications—because who better to give advice than students who were in your exact shoes not that long ago?

Make a List, Then Make Some More

Think of your college search as a process of elimination. If you know what kind of campus environment you see yourself in, what states or cities may be off limits for you, or what activities or organizations you want to be involved in—start with what matters most to you and narrow your choices down from there.

Noemie Nerette-Arciniega, SIS/BA & KOGOD/BS ’29, adds:

"Something I would recommend would be to make a list of the schools you’re interested in. Having a spreadsheet with application deadlines and events, and trying to get a feel for the programs they have to offer, is great. Also, get a head start on what you want your personal statement to be about."

Keeping close tabs on the various deadlines and events you don’t want to miss for those schools you’re interested in is the best way to ensure you’re not leaving your future up to chance. Missing deadlines for early decision or scholarship applications can close doors to opportunities that could shape the future you're pursuing. Proactively tracking these milestones helps you allocate your time wisely, identify overlapping commitments, and avoid unnecessary pressure or rushed applications. 

You can review American University’s decision plans and deadlines for first-year students as well as discover upcoming events and visit opportunities. 

The Early Eagle Gets Ahead Of The Stress

This approach isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about reclaiming your time. By tackling applications early, you free up time for what matters most: enjoying your final year of high school, exploring your interests, and savoring moments with friends and family. No more late-night essay writing sessions or last-minute panic over those deadlines that creep up before you know it. Future you will thank you later.

Conner Merchant, CAS/BA ’28, adds:

"I would say if there are any outside-of-school volunteer opportunities or just programs you were interested in that would be difficult to complete during the school year, now would be the time to do those. Additionally, the summer is a great time to get started on the applications themselves. Managing a senior year workload and presumably several college applications is not impossible but also not worth the procrastination."

Dedicating time to extracurricular activities and volunteer opportunities—whether it’s community service, internships, or leadership roles in clubs—during the summer will not only strengthen your college application when the time comes but also allow you to engage more deeply and meaningfully with them. You might even be able to use your experiences in your college essay!

Stay tuned for the second part of our college application preparation blog series, where we’ll be diving into more words of wisdom from students who have been through the process. 

Have a question for a current student? Send a direct message to our AU Ambassadors on Instagram any time!