Ok, you’ve asked permission to get out of class and arrived at the room where the admissions officer is waiting to brief you on the incredible reasons why you should apply to their school.  This is a great chance to interact with an admission’s office at what could be your dream school.

Tips

Make the connection!  The admissions officer is often the first person who will read your application, what a great opportunity for some quality (almost) 1-1 time. 

Fill out the card! Yes, the admissions officer really wants these.  1^st, it helps them keep track of who comes, 2^nd it helps them match a face to name, and 3^rd, it show the all-important “demonstrated interest”.

Pay attention!  The admissions officer will tell you what is important on their application.

Ask questions! Below are some questions to ask that will help you get to know the school better.  And, it will help avoid those oh, so awkward pauses that can so often occur when a group of students are all waiting for someone else to get it started.   

Some Questions to ask

• What is unique about your school?
• Describe your school’s culture.
• What type of student fits in best or is the happiest?
• What is your school’s biggest strength?
• What it your school’s greatest room for growth?

• What do you look for in a great application?
• What do you look for in a great essay?
• Are there different admissions requirements for different departments or majors?
• What unique characteristics do you look for in your applicants?
• How might my _________________ specialty/interest influence admissions to your school?  (You can fill in the blank with your unique thing:either your major, or såomething special you are involved in – like a sport, art, etc.)
• Is it better to apply with a specific major or undeclared?

• What support is there for freshman?
• How do freshman sign up for classes? 
• What choices do freshmen have in class selection?

•  What do your students do just after graduating?
• What are the opportunities for internship, research, and employment?
• What do students do for fun?  Are the events mostly on campus or off campus?