By: Mackenzie Vogt
On March 15, Northwest joined the surrounding districts in cancelling school for at least that coming week. Now a month later, it is known that students will not be returning to the normal definition of school. This is impacting the college admission requirements that seniors would normally be subjected to.
From changing due dates to scheduling virtual admitted student days, needless to say, high school seniors this year will have a different experience from seniors in the past. Lori Merritt, one of the counselors, confirms that fact.
“Usually, our office would be busy with seniors asking questions and getting clarification on how to submit things. Seniors need to be advocating for themselves and asking for help, even though things aren’t normal right now.”
Many colleges, though, are doing their best to work around these circumstances. The University of Nebraska, which includes Lincoln, Kearney and Omaha, has announced they will be offering free tuition to in-state undergraduate students with families making less than $60,000. Most other colleges are allowing high school seniors to make the decision to use either their seventh semester or current GPA.
Also, class ranking, ACT and SAT requirements are being waved at most colleges. Many have also decided to extend the due dates of applying for admission, submitting housing contracts and extending the acceptance of admission. Most colleges have even started to move orientation and tours online.
“Every college that I have been in contact with has been extremely lenient working with kids,” Merritt said. “As long as a student receives credit in the classes they are in they aren’t worried about the grade since most schools have gone to a pass/fail system. If a student doesn’t have an ACT, which is rare, many are allowing admission based on GPA and their school records.”
One of the bigger things to consider is the difference between low-income and high-income students. The closure of schools and beginnings of quarantines eliminates support systems. Students who might have been relying on their parents’ income or even their own to help pay for college may no longer have that luxury. Students will miss out on the support systems that high schools offer, such as teachers and counselors.
If any students have questions about college or school in general, they are encouraged to talk to the admission directors at their desired college or contact either Lori Merritt or Andrew Manhart. Counselors also want to emphasize the importance of students checking their emails for updates and information.
*Photo Obtained from the San Diego Community College District
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