Kristen BixbyFall is travel season for College Admission Counselors, and we discussed that more in depth in this previous blog. But what that means is that Admission Counselors are out scouring the country for the best students to attend their college. They visit high schools, attend college fairs and conduct interviews. These are all great opportunities for potential applicants to meet with Counselors and make a great first impression.
Here are some scenarios where you may meet a College Admission Counselor and ways in which you can make an impact.
At a College Fair:
When at a college fair, you will likely have a very short amount of time to meet an Admission Counselor from a college you are interested in. But, this short time can make a big difference. Be sure to smile when you first meet the Counselor, and shake their hand. Be positive, and ask smart questions about their school. Let them know how much you like their school and why. And finally, ask for a business card before you leave so that you can follow up later and thank them for their time.
At a High School Visit:
Often in the fall, Admission Counselors will visit high schools to meet potential applicants. They talk about their school, answer any questions, and try to get to know students better. It’s smart for students to dress a little more conservatively to school that day, and to ask smart questions. If a student has a test, or is unable to meet with the Admission Counselor at the appointed time, there are two options: 1. Stop by quickly and explain why you can’t stay for the meeting (ie, I have a test in my Math class), or 2. Follow up with an email explaining the reason for your absence. No matter what, if an Admission Counselor is visiting your school, make a point to introduce yourself.
At an Interview:
Not all colleges offer interview opportunities, but if they do, it’s a great idea to take advantage of it. To make a good first impression, dress nicely and conservatively. Come prepared to answer questions, especially, “Why do you like my college…?”. Have questions prepared for them too. Eye contact, no fidgeting and a firm handshake can go a long way. For more interview tips, see this previous blog post.
When it comes to college admissions, these small impressions can add up. Make sure that when the Admission Counselor reads your application, they remember you in a positive light. It can help!