Starting college application process. What tips should I know?

Hi,
I was hoping to hear some tips from people who have just completed the college application process (congrats!). I’m about to start the journey by touring colleges this summer, but was wondering if people could pass along some of the knowledge they’ve developed over the 1-2 years it took to get into college. It’s a daunting process and I’m sure people have found simple tricks that helped them get to where they are today.

Thanks and gluck next year!

This entire forum is dedicated to those tips. It would be helpful if you framed up a few specific questions. I’d suggest you start by reading the pinned threads at the top of some of the key forums: Here are a few to get going:

http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/college-search-selection/1621234-before-you-ask-which-colleges-to-apply-to-please-consider-p1.html

http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/college-search-selection/493318-dont-forget-to-apply-to-a-safety-college.html#latest
http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/1486647-financial-aid-faqs.html#latest

http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/college-essays/2003258-essay-tips-to-consider-p1.html

Then if you have specific questions about coming up with a list, getting the most out of visits, testing, paying for college, etc, come back and ask. ?