College is a big decision, whether you’re researching schools for the first time, looking into transferring, or thinking about what to do after graduation. So what’s the best way to start that process?
Once you’ve done your research and found some schools you like, it’s time to visit campus, says Kayla Hollins, MCLA’s director of admission. “Visiting campus is a great way to get a sense of a college’s personality, meet some of the faculty, and hear from current students about their experience,” she said. “Our student Admission Ambassadors are the experts on what it’s like to go to MCLA, so we want prospective students to hear from them.”
In addition to Saturday information sessions, daily tours, and open houses, including events specifically for transfer students, MCLA also has a full virtual tour for students who might not be able to make the trip.
Once you’ve checked out a campus, it’s time to start an application. Applying to MCLA is free and can be completed via The Common App, and Admission counselors are available for help and questions. “We’re dedicated to creating a clear and transparent admission process for students and their families,” said Hollins. “Many of the students who apply to MCLA are the first in their families to go to college. We want to make sure we’re there to help them navigate every step of the way.”
MCLA has also adopted a test-blind policy for fall 2022 applicants, and will be waiving SAT/ACT scores. When you submit an application, you’re also considered for merit-based scholarships and more than 100 MCLA Foundation scholarships.
MCLA has an Early Action Deadline of December 1, with a rolling deadline for transfer students. To apply, you’ll need your official high school transcript, including first quarter senior grades and any transcripts for college level courses taken, as well as a personal statement/essay. Transfer students don’t need to submit a high school transcript to apply.
It’s important to keep in touch with your admission counselor through the process—they’re here to help, and they can answer questions about MCLA,
connect you with current students, and help you find resources on campus you might
not otherwise discover.
“Our counselors know this process inside and out, and they all work with students in different areas of the country, so they are experts about the college search process, from inquiring to enrolling,” said Hollins. “We even have a specific counselor for transfer students to make the transfer process easier to navigate.”
Once you’re accepted, your counselor will help get you connected to the campus community and can answer questions about life on campus, communications to expect over the summer, move-in, and on-campus jobs and internships.
“It can be overwhelming to apply to college,” said Hollins, “but it can also be exciting! We love when students and families reach out with questions.”
Find out more about the application process at mcla.edu/apply, or contact an admission counselor.
