Lopez also said that she has noticed more parents calling to inquire about their child's application. She thinks the increase in parent involvement is because students are busy with sports and other activities, but she cautions that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prevents colleges from disclosing certain information to parents even when students are under 18. Lopez said that she prefers students make contact with her because since she reviews the application, she can "personalize the process after speaking to a student."

Too much communication can backfire, though, according to Lopez. "St. Mary's tracks each phone call or e-mail we receive, and too many can be annoying and can affect our decision."

However, some phone calls can be beneficial. Lopez recalled a student who called to determine if his file was complete, and together they determined that a letter of recommendation was misfiled. The phone call allowed the admission office to track it down and begin processing the application.

St. Mary's, like many colleges, uses an online notification system where students can log in to see their application status and determine if the file is complete.

Lopez says that her worst nightmare is when students use multiple names. Colleges might not realize when a student uses a nickname and begin several application files for the same student, which, until they realize the mistake, can hold up the processing of that application.

Lopez also said that many students either forget or do not realize that they need to request that their high school send transcripts, and that they must request that test scores be sent to colleges as well. "The students think we'll call and get the information, but often they just don't understand the process."

After making a few well-planned phone calls, seniors will be free to wait for admissions decisions and enjoy the remainder of senior year

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© Joanne Levy-Prewitt, Distributed by Universal Press Syndicate