Scholar Lab: Common Application (for Class of '26)

*Exclusively for Access College America Scholars

*For Class of 2026

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 will 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).

PRESENTERS:

Bonnie Kleffman, M.Ed, GCDF

College Consultant Director

Access College America

Bonnie is a globally certified Career Development Facilitator who holds a Masters in Education and English. She has worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, and has a passion for helping students find careers that they love and the educational paths to get them there. She is the Managing Director of Advising for Access College America, a national provider for guidance with college planning based in Austin, Texas.