Technology has changed much of the way college applications are done. In the past, high school seniors would manually fill up an application form for the school they want to attend. They would also write their essays either by hand or by typewriter. These are then sent to the office of the guidance counselor. Transcript, test scores, and letters of recommendation are added to the batch before getting mailed to the universities.

Nowadays, much of the process is done online while others have been automated. SAT scores, for example, are sent directly to the universities. Application forms are filled up and sent through the Internet. Only the transcript needs to be mailed the old-fashioned way. Yet although much has changed, a lot remains the same. Students feel the same trepidation at the thought of going to college. It can be difficult to select institutions which would fit them as well as the degrees which would serve them best. Adults can provide them with much needed assurances and guidance so that they can make rational decisions that they will be happy with. These are just some of the issues which they may need help with:

1. College Selection -- There are a lot of big names out there and students like to get into the best universities they can find. However, sometimes the best is not a matter of prestige but the actual program as it relates to the student's desired course. One curriculum may suit a person's interest more than another. Sometimes the professors make or break the decision. Often it's a matter of proximity and finances.

2. Essays -- Every person has a story or two to tell. Students may require guidance with regards to topic selection. Then they will have to learn how to organize their thoughts in a coherent manner. They will have to find that edge that would make their application stand out from the crowd.

3. Organization -- With so many deadlines and requirements to keep track of, things could easily fall into the cracks. Adult supervision can prevent this from happening. Students must be taught how to manage their time and organize their calendar to beat every single deadline and avoid frustrations.

4. Application -- Sometimes it's good to have a sounding board. Adults may listen to their thoughts and proofread their applications for polishing. Errors could raise eyebrows and ruin an otherwise brilliant application.

5. Scholarships -- Most students need financial aid in order to make college a reality. They might require help in searching for good scholarship opportunities and in writing their applications. Success in their endeavor will help them with college funding tremendously.

6. Test Preparation -- Getting a high SAT score will allow them to catch the attention of top universities. Little tips and tricks during the test preparation can go a long way towards this goal. They should answer lots of practice exams in order to get more comfortable with taking standardized tests.

7. Stress Relief -- Stress can pile up pretty quickly because of all the new things that they need to think about. An adult can provide advice on staying relaxed and focused on the goal.