The College Connection is your guide to all things college.  It will provide parents and kids with useful tips, helpful insights and up-to-the-minute information about preparing for college, surviving the admissions process, as well as trends and life on campus.  Stick with me, and the transition from high school to college will be a breeze.

Start thinking about putting aside the surfboard and sunscreen, and taking out the College Guide Books; college application time has officially arrived. The 2011-2012 Common Application launched on Aug. 1 and your kids can now begin working on it - online or by printing out a copy. Senior year poses many challenges and requires them to give their attention to a multitude of activities. Staying organized is a key component to maintaining your sanity throughout this hectic time. I recommend buying a decent sized wall calendar on which your kids can enter the many important tasks, dates and deadlines throughout the year.  Here are just a few of the many “to do” items they should note on their calendar:

• Sign up and study for any standardized tests that you still plan to take - SATs, SAT Subject Tests, and ACTs.

• Keep your grades up throughout senior year, particularly the first half; this can make the difference between getting into a school of your choice or not.

• If you have time and the funds, visit some schools that may interest you. If you can’t go in person, take” virtual” tours online.

• Make sure to secure a commitment from at least two academic subject teachers to write your college recommendations.

• Start writing your personal statements and/or essays.  Depending upon which schools you apply to, this could involve one to two essays or more than a dozen.

• Pay attention to the finances. Each year, millions of families apply and succeed in getting financial aid for college. The best way to maximize your chances of getting a piece of the pie is to carefully research the programs, policies and deadlines. Each school may have their own set of requirements and deadlines. Request financial aid information as early as possible.

Anita Glick is a freelance writer and college essay consultant. She can be contacted at stoa4@aol.com