Without a college visit, I would never have learned about school traditions, like this fence at Carnegie Mellon University. It used to be in the Guinness Book of World Records as the "most painted on object."
	The 'Perfect Essay' The essay is your opportunity to let the college admissions officer know who you are. Here are some great tips to make your essay stand out: Write about something important to you, something you are passionate about, or something you aspire to learn about The best essays are those that are written in your voice. Write an essay that reflects who you really are. Grammar and spelling count, but the essay doesn't have to look like a formal English paper. Proofread your essay. Keep it simple. When writing, try to use an active voice, simple language, and avoid prepositional phrases.
	The MetLife Foundation This article was brought to you by The MetLife Foundation. The Foundation's College Pathways Program provides girls from all walks of life with opportunities to develop their academic and life skills within a secure, nurturing, girl-centered environment. The MetLife Foundation works with local Girl Scout councils to help girls actualize their college dreams. Check Out Studio 2B Focus: College 101 to learn more about the exciting steps girls take to get ready for college. This guide provides tips, information and advice on topics ranging from college entrance exams and school selection to financing higher education and enjoying the college experience.

CollegePrep:
The Search Begins

By Jennifer, 16

I've met two types of students in my life: those who relax, and those who don't believe in "relax." I'm more of the latter.

You'd think summer means I'd take a chill pill and play couch potato (my favorite hobby), but this is hardly the case; I'm an incoming senior preparing for early admissions in less than four months! Here's what I've learned—maybe it'll help you, too.

Time For Yourself

There are so many questions to answer in such little time. Why is college A better than college B? Or is college C even better? Oh, dear, college A is $10,000 more expensive than college B. Wait—what about college D?

But before I could begin research on any college, my first plan of action was to take some "me" time and decide if I want to go in with an intended major or be clueless and go in undecided.

My decision to go into fine arts came naturally whereas the tips I read in college advice books about jotting down your interests and crossing out the "bad ones" were useless.

My advice: Dodge the silly advice and do what comes naturally.

Rankings: Are They Realistic?

My bible for college is the first 93 pages of U.S. News' Ultimate College Guide (found in most public libraries); these pages are filled with excellent tips and advice on college interviews, applications, etc. The rest of the book, however, is full of college rankings. U.S. News is known for these popular rankings; it's also known for blurring students' vision when it comes to making a realistic choice.

For example, when I first started high school, I decided on four schools. When I read U.S. News' rankings, there were many Ivy League schools listed, but the four I'd picked were missing. I got the impression that if none of the schools I chose made the cut, they weren't worth applying to—which is simply not the case! My state university is really hard to get into and has really low acceptance rates—but it wasn't on their list.

Bottom line? Don't make the mistake of only applying to schools on the list.

College Visits

Sometimes, colleges may not be as golden as they appear in brochures and on Web sites (something I've learned from college visits).

Last month, I visited the college I'd most like to attend and was blown away by the experience—it was way better than the brochure! By visiting the campus, I was able to ask students questions that the brochure couldn't answer. Even though it was quite a long trip, it was worth it!

My Advice: Be sure to visit your schools because the grass may—or may not—be greener on the other side…