Tips for seniors going to college

Many universities and colleges have taken action to help aspiring undergraduate students amid the pandemic including posts on their campus websites saying if students are unable to submit required documents for enrollment, they are encouraged to contact an admissions counselor.

High school counselors are also available to offer assistance during this time.

“School counselors offer a wealth of information and are in constant communication with college admissions and financial aid officers,” said Walsh. “Students and families should reach out to their counselors with questions pertaining to reviewing financial aid and selecting a college.”

Virtual meetings through programs like Zoom are available at some high schools to review college options and to provide feedback for the student.

“With new information presented daily, we recommend that seniors thoughtfully move through the college selection

and enrollment process with all the information needed to make an informed decision,” Walsh said. “If a family is impacted by COVID-19, we highly recommend that they communicate with their high school counselor and the college admissions and financial aid offices to come up with a plan.”

Walsh also recommends that students and families refer to the National Association for College Admissions Counseling website at nacacnet.org, which has the status of admissions events and enrollment information.

The college fair that was scheduled for April 24 is canceled, but the Hawaii Association for College Admissions Counseling (HACAC) partnered with StriveScan and other associations around the country to provide a free virtual alternative.

Strive Virtual Exploration Week starts April 20 through April 23. More than 300 colleges are participating, and there will be 96 sessions over the four-day event, including evening options. Presentations are 45 minutes each and cover a range of topics for juniors and underclassmen.

Students can browse the schedule, topics and the colleges/universities involved, as well as learn about other information like size, average GPA and test scores.

For more information or to register for a panel, visit strivescan.com.