On March 28, Salisbury High School hosted its third annual college information night in the auditorium for parents and students. The presentation was led by guidance counselors Mike Anderson, Joy Wernick and Natalie Kriner.

The presentation also included an expert panel, with six representatives from a variety of colleges: Krista Evans from Lehigh University, Alyson Remsing from Moravian College, Michael Damweber from Penn State Lehigh Valley, Tom Borealo from DeSales University, Irma Aguirre from Kutztown University and Nancy Kelly from Lehigh Carbon Community College. Paula Henry and Sue Kershner from Wells Fargo Financial Institute handed out college readiness guides in the lobby.

The presentation included topics such as SAT versus ACT assessments, college visits/searches, recommendations, transcripts, National Collegiate Athletic Association eligibility, applications, decisions, financial aid and a short “Tips and Tricks” section from student representative Holly Bruns.

A timeline for juniors regarding the college application process was provided.

In October of a student’s junior year, the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test should be taken. Scores will be received in November which will include detailed explanations as to how the student might improve for the SATs and where strengths are.

In the spring of the junior year, students should plan to take the SAT or ACT assessment. These are standardized tests high school students are expected to take to show colleges the students’ readiness.

For more information on this testing, visit collegeboard.org or actstudent.org.

In the fall and spring of the junior year, students and their families should research and visit colleges.

All juniors and seniors also have the opportunity to meet with college representatives who visit the school. It was also suggested students attend open houses at colleges to get a feel of the school. An interview with admissions should be scheduled to get to know them better and show the student’s interest.

At the end of the student’s junior year, recommendations should be requested. Colleges and universities have different requirements for recommendations from teachers and counselors. This information can be found on the school’s website. Students should request recommendations early from two to three teachers from specific subjects.

During the junior year, students should receive, from school counselors, the Common App writing prompts. Students should take their time in writing these essays and be sure the colleges of their choice accept the Common App. The Common App works as a central hub for college applications, as letters of recommendations and essays can be downloaded by colleges directly from the student’s page.

In September and October of the senior year, students should apply to colleges and universities.

When applying to colleges, consider the decision types. Early decision is only given by some colleges, but if a student applies for early decision and is accepted, the student is legally bound to the college and must withdraw other applications. Early action is similar, but it is not legally binding. Regular admissions are standard applications. Rolling decisions are decisions made case by case without any specific deadline.

In October of the senior year, students and parents must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. SHS will host a financial aid evening Oct. 2 where financial questions will be answered.

Colleges and universities review the FASFA information and will make decisions for financial assistance.

Additional information can be found on the school district website www.salisburysd.org under the guidance tab of SHS.