September 30, 2025 · Season 2 · Episode 9
Get An App-titude! October is Apply2College Month
By Joan & Gage
In this episode, Gage and EducationQuest Director of College Planning and Outreach Joan Jurek break down the college application process, share insider tips, and highlight how schools across Nebraska celebrate Apply2College events. If you’re ready to get an “app-titude” and put your best foot forward, this is the episode for you.
Starting the college journey can feel overwhelming, but the right guidance makes all the difference. In a recent episode of our Countdown2College podcast, we sat down with Joan Jurek, Director of College Planning and Outreach at EducationQuest, to discuss October being Apply2College Month. Joan shared insights into how high schools celebrate this event, why timing matters, and practical tips for navigating applications with confidence.
Apply2College Month Expands Awareness
Apply2College Month is part of a national campaign that highlights the many options available after high school. College doesn’t just mean a four-year university—it includes two-year colleges, trade programs, and apprenticeships. In Nebraska, high schools often mark the occasion with activities that bring campuses together. Students may work on applications in a computer lab, participate in scavenger hunts, or stop by selfie stations featuring college pennants. Teachers and staff frequently join in by wearing gear from their own alma maters, creating a visible reminder that higher education is both attainable and varied.
Early Planning Leads to Success
Joan stressed that the most successful students start exploring colleges as juniors. Researching 10–12 possible schools ahead of time makes senior-year applications more manageable. By the fall of their senior year, students should begin submitting applications, which keeps them ahead of deadlines and ensures full consideration for scholarships and financial aid. Applying early also reduces stress during what can be a hectic season of campus visits, testing, and coursework.
Applications Require Preparation
College applications typically include transcripts, test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, essays, and application fees. While the checklist can feel daunting, staying organized makes a difference. Joan recommends students track requirements for each school and use the College Application Checklist from EducationQuest. Building this system of organization not only ensures nothing is missed but also makes the entire process less overwhelming.
Essays Provide a Personal Voice
Essays and personal statements provide students with the opportunity to stand out. Rather than focusing on grand achievements, strong essays highlight authentic stories and personal growth. Joan encouraged students to write in their own voice, sharing the challenges they’ve overcome, the goals they hope to achieve, and the passions that drive them. Admissions officers value this glimpse into a student’s character and potential, making the essay an important complement to grades and test scores.
The Common Application Simplifies the Process
The Common App enables students to apply to multiple colleges through a single, centralized application. Many Nebraska colleges and universities accept it, which saves students time when applying to multiple schools. However, Joan noted that each institution may have supplemental requirements, so students should pay close attention to details. Using the Common App effectively requires striking a balance between efficiency and thoroughness.
Fee Waivers Reduce Barriers
Application fees can add up quickly, especially when students apply to several colleges. Fortunately, many students qualify for waivers. Families should connect with school counselors to request waivers or check with colleges directly. This ensures that financial limitations don’t prevent students from applying to the schools that interest them most.
Support Systems Matter
Families and counselors provide essential support throughout the application process. Parents and guardians can help by reviewing deadlines, offering encouragement, and celebrating small milestones. Counselors typically provide technical assistance by explaining requirements, reviewing essays, and troubleshooting application issues. Together, they create a network of support that helps students feel less isolated during this complex process.
Taking the First Step Builds Momentum
For students who feel overwhelmed, the key is to start small. Joan recommended starting with one concrete action: making a list of potential colleges, beginning the application process, or scheduling a meeting with a counselor. Once the first step is taken, the process becomes more manageable. Momentum builds confidence, and each completed task brings students closer to their goals.
A Confident Path Forward
Apply2College Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. With early planning, organization, and the right support system, students can navigate the application process with confidence.