College Countdown
College Countdown
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College Visits and Interviews
The importance of the college visit is to give you a personal view of that college. Often your college choice decision will be made on the basis of a college visit or a conversation with a professor. The cost of going to college ranges from the price of a new car to a new house. You wouldn't buy either one of those without taking a test drive or house tour, so why would you agree to contract with a college -- that is going to be your home for 4 or more years -- without taking it for a test drive? The college visit can also help eliminate a college that looked great on paper, but turned out not just right for you. Make appointments -- just don't show up! A night spent in the dorms and a dorm meal can sometimes give more enlightenment about college than any tour. Drive around the neighborhood that surrounds the college campus. Keep a written log of your impressions -- if you visit more than one campus -- they do tend to blend together!
Interviews The interview process is especially important if a student is eligible for academic/performance scholarships. Always pre-arrange interviews prior to making your visit. Practice your interviewing skills well in advance of your interviews. Practice out loud with another person taking the role of the interviewer. Ask your high school guidance counselor for help with this. Spend the time in practice so your answers come naturally. The interview process is as much for the college as for the student. It is a two-way interaction. Everyone should learn something. You should have questions ready for the interviewer that deal with a specific program you are interested in or with the school itself. Dress nicely and cleanly -- but not dressed up. Be on time! After you leave the interview, write your impressions in your visit log.
 See Chapters 6 and 7 for more information and instructions. Click here for more information © 2003 [Wildwood Country Press]. All rights reserved.
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