Wednesday, September 24th, 2025: Juniors and seniors at Syracuse Academy of Science had the opportunity to meet with an admissions representative from Susquehanna University. The visit gave students a clear look at college life, from academic programs and campus community to what admissions officers look for in applications. It also helped them take the next steps in preparing for their college journeys.
What students learned
How to research academic programs and match majors to interests and career goals.
What campus life is like — housing, student organizations, and support services.
Which parts of an application matter most (courses, grades, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation.)
Practical tips for campus visits, interviews, and communicating with admissions offices.
College-prep action items
For Juniors
Build a college list: tour virtual or in-person, and note programs and campus size you prefer.
Strengthen your academic record: prioritize challenging coursework and consistent grades.
Get involved: take leadership in at least one extracurricular and track achievements.
Start college testing planning: research SAT/ACT dates and prep resources if you plan to test.
Meet with the school counselor Mr. Kovar to map a senior year timeline.
For Seniors
Finalize your college list and deadlines; create an application calendar.
Ask teachers for recommendation letters early and provide them with a resume/summary.
Draft and revise application essays — aim for thoughtful, specific stories.
Complete FAFSA and any institutional financial aid forms as soon as possible.
Visit final-choice campuses or attend admitted-student events before deciding.
Why this matters
Early and intentional preparation dramatically reduces stress and increases options. Visits like Susquehanna’s give students firsthand information that helps them make informed choices about majors, campus fit, and application strategy — all crucial for a successful college application season.
Next steps for SASCS families
Schedule a meeting with Mr. Kovar to review their personalized college timeline.
Encourage students to reflect on what they learned during the visit and update their college lists.
Watch for upcoming college rep visits and field trip opportunities.
