The Last 10%: The Highest Hurdle
October is one of the most notable months for college-bound high school seniors. Not only are you in the wonderful rush of your senior year and all of the “finals” that come with that milestone (final “first day” pictures, final schedule change stress, final Homecoming festivities, etc.), but you are also approaching the end of the first milestone of your college admission journey: submitting your application! Once the application is tossed over the wall to the admission offices, the process falls out of your control. (Note: I know that that “loss of control” is comforting for some and absolutely frightening for others, but that is the topic of a future blog!).
In my practice and in talking to my colleagues, we all are noticing a trend that I am calling “The Last 10% Hurdle!” Students have embraced building thoughtful college lists. Their activities and honors have been strategically ranked and written to drive maximum impact at (fill in the blank) campus. The essays have been discussed and, often by now, initially drafted. But, all of the sudden, bringing everything across the finish line seems impossible and gas tanks are empty.
In the spirit of fall sports, welcome to my October Admissions Pep Rally!
For those in the senior section:
You’ve got this! This is the moment you have worked so hard for. Ultimately, these colleges want to learn about you! From my experience in college admissions, I promise you that this task is less about the perfect topic and more about the way in which you convey your learning journey, your growth and your unique interests. If you are pensive, make it pensive. If you are witty, drop in some witty overtones. But if you are naturally pensive, this is not the place to try out your witty material. You are in the best position to deliver an authentic, self-reflection, in your voice. Yes, make sure the grammar is correct, double check for typos, ensure any college mentions are going to the right college…but, then wrap it up and let it fly.
For those in the junior section:
Elevate your curiosity! Now is your time to pay attention to everything around you.
Your coursework: don’t let your grades slip. Work hard in the hardest level of coursework you can manage.
Your activities: strive for pathways to leadership and/or greater commitment. Start to identify the places outside the classroom where you will make your mark. Raise your hand and start to find your leadership voice.
Your college ambitions: don’t miss any opportunity to experience a college. Whether this is meeting with the college reps who visit your high school or going 15 minutes out of your way to visit a campus on vacation, these visits are critical to building your college awareness muscle. Pay attention and take note of the features that sit well with you. Those criteria are going to be crucial in about 6 months when you narrow down your list to the schools you are going to apply to. You certainly do not need to have it all figured out yet, but you should be on the journey to identifying where you can thrive!
And, finally, for those senior parents that snuck into the back of the auditorium:
This is a time to partner, not parent. You are right in the middle of this transition in your household as your child starts to envision their world outside those doors. Cheer on your child as they make this final push on their applications. Be by their side (not a thorn in their side) and find ways to encourage and empower them to bring their voice forward.
90% is in the bag, go conquer your final 10%!
If you know someone who needs some “cheering on” and support during this time or in prep for 2026 application, please contact me at adam@maxcollegeadvising.com. For background, I am a certified Independent Educational Consultant in Boulder. I was a former admission officer at Emory University and have an MBA in Marketing from the University of Texas. I am actively meeting with students, nationwide, in the Class of 2026 who are looking for more personalized guidance and support throughout the college admission journey. You can find more information about my practice, credentials and philosophy at maxcollegeadvising.com or email me directly at adam@maxcollegeadvising.com.
