Tips for the Application

Starting Your College Search

• Perform a self-evaluation, identifying what aspects of a college are most important to you (for example, community, academic rigor, spiritual life, etc.), and work on achieving focus without being overly narrow.
• Ask for advice from a teacher or mentor about schools that are compatible with your interests.
• Use the internet and resources like the Newman Guide to research colleges: faculty, curriculum, size of the institution, location, and extracurricular programs are all important aspects to consider.
• Create a list of colleges to which you would like to apply, then contact those college’s admissions departments for additional information.

Tips for Acquiring the Best Letters of Recommendation

• Contact possible references early.
• Determine whether the person you selected is able to write you an honest letter of recommendation.
• Provide your letter writers with points you would like them to address (for example, your engagement in class, ability to think critically and do scholarly research, involvement in community activities, or willingness and ability to take on leadership roles).
• Consider providing your references with a draft of your application essay.
• Provide your references with deadlines for each of the colleges you are applying to.
• Follow up to ensure that letters were mailed or submitted through Populi.

Tips on Writing a Good Application Essay

The application essay is an opportunity to let the admissions committee get to know you—your interests, style, and story. The essay should discuss a person, place, text, or event that has deepened your desire to know the truth. It should be two to three pages in length, double spaced. Here are a few things to consider when writing your essay:

• Consider writing your essay on something which relates to your understanding of the charism and curriculum of the College.
• Consider discussing how studying at Thomas More College specifically will help you progress in your pursuit of the truth.
• Consider incorporating experiences, interests, or skills which you think would enable you to uniquely contribute to the collegiate community.
• Make sure you are fully satisfied with your essay. We recommend asking a parent or teacher to review your essay before you submit it.

Tips on Filling Out Your Online Application

• What are your goals?  When answering this question, think about what you hope to achieve by attending Thomas More College. You want to be specific about your particular interests and aspirations, and how you think Thomas More College’s particular pedagogical style relates to them. The answer need not be lengthy, but you should do your best to give the admissions committee a sense of who you are, where you want to go in life, and how you believe we can help you get there.
• Awards and Distinctions. This is not the time to be stingy! You should add any and all awards and distinctions that you have received. While attaining the rank of Eagle Scout or being an employee of the month is not directly academic, they can give the admissions committee a sense of your drive, work ethic, and determination. That being said, academic awards and distinctions will be of particular note to the committee.
• Extracurriculars. This portion of the application gives the admissions committee a sense of what to expect from you on campus. Thomas More College is a small community and it is important that every member be active and engaged. Be sure to include the length of time you participated in the activities you list and any leadership roles you held.
• Hobbies, Special Interests, and Talents. This is an opportunity to let the admissions committee know more about you. Think about what subjects and activities interest you most inside and outside of the classroom and would be a benefit to the collegiate life of the College. This could be an instrument you play, a sport you love, a particular interest in philosophy or literature, etc.