Common Application Lab (for Class of '25)

***Exclusively for Access College America scholars***

Think of the Common Application as a giant cookie jar with all of the cookies representing colleges & universities in America. Using one application system, prospective college students can apply to up to 20 schools. The Common Application is the gateway to admissions for hundreds of places, including the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M. Understanding the logistics for maneuvering it, where to find your short answer questions, how to submit your application and complete a profile is the key to your breakthrough.

In this lab we show you, step-by-step, how to set up your profile in the Common Application. We will also show you how to research colleges using this application platform, how to save colleges you are interested in applying to and where to find the following sections:

• Activity List!
• Honors & Awards!
• Writing Sections (Main Essay and Short Answer Questions)!

Be Advised:

• This is a hands-on working lab with camera & audio on. Participation is required for all attendees.
• We suggest water & snacks readily available.
• Plan to be in a quite location suitable for brainstorming activities and writing.
• You MUST be at a desk and in front of a computer (no phones allowed).

PRESENTER:

Shayla Rodriguez-Bell, M.A.

College Consulting Associate

Access College America

Shayla has been a Professional School Counselor for 23 years, working at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. The past 16 years have been spent working with high school students, supporting their academic goals and social emotional needs. She understands the value and benefits of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Credit and has a heart for International students.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, her focus has always been about helping and serving others. She is passionate about getting to know her scholars and their family units while supporting their goals and objectives. She likes to understand their “why” and encourages them to be confident in their choices.