Scholar Lab: Common Application (for Class of '26)

*Exclusively for Access College America Scholars

*For the Class of 2026

The Common Application Activity List is often used as a replacement for the resume in the college application. It is a list of 10 activities that the applicant has delved into over the span of their high school experience. It is an opportunity to highlight intellectual curiosities, accomplishments and showcase talent in a contextually rich way. But be advised: You only have 150 characters per entry! Strategy is needed.

Using our template, we will help you narrow your Common Application Activities List to your top 10 entries. We will discuss organization, rank and description. We will also look at tips for strengthening your list. We will discuss action verbs, provide suggestions to lengthen (or shorten) your descriptions for maximum impact.

Needed:

• Revised Scholar Vitae & Resume

• 2 Pens

• highlighter(s)

• notebook for taking notes

• 3-to-5 blank sheets of paper

Be Advised:

• This is a hands-on working lab with camera & audio on. Participation is required for all attendees.

• We suggest water & snacks readily available.

• Plan to be in a quite location suitable for brainstorming activities and writing.

• You MUST be at a desk and in front of a computer (no phones allowed).

PRESENTER:

Melissa Wood, M.Ed.

College Consulting Director

Access College America

Melissa Wood, M.Ed. is a licensed school counselor with Bachelor's and Master's of Music Degrees from Sam Houston State University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Texas State University, and a School Counselor Certification from Angelo State University. She has worked her entire career in public education, serving her campus community for 23 years in various roles, and has served as a school counselor for the past 5 years. Melissa has a true calling for assisting scholars in finding their chosen career path while also guiding them through the admission process to highly selective schools in Texas and across the country.

Melissa has served in roles ranging from band director to College & Career Transition Coordinator to Academic Guidance Counselor. She has a broad range of experience assisting everyone from those who are undecided in their major to those applying to some of the most selective colleges in the country with the intention of securing a STEM major. As Transition Coordinator & Guidance Counselor, Melissa has successfully assisted scholars through the course selection process for dual credit, Advanced Placement, the International Baccalaureate programs, along with numerous Career & Technical Education programs.