The College Essay

  Tips for Helping you write your essay
Count on writing several drafts before it is final.
Use the standard rules of good writing:  be concise, interesting, and "grab" the
        reader in the first line.
Don't try to write what you think the admissions staff wants to hear, write about
        who you are.
Don't allow someone else to write the essay for you.  No one else can really
      convey who you are.
Your topic does not have to be dramatic, bizarre or unusual.  It can be about
       the most ordinary activity, as long as you communicate what you have learned
      or how it has changed you.
Never use hte essay to tell why your grades are not up to par or how you plan
       to improve during the next semester.  If you have a valid reason for poor
      grades, discuss it with your counselor and he/she will relay this to the
     admissions counselor.
Lead the essay with your strengths and highlight your accomplishments.
The more selective the college, the more emphasis is placed on the essay.
Most importantly, remember what you learned in English class!  Apply the
     good writing skills you have learned.  Make the transition from writing
     assignments of analytical, expository, personal or argumentative styles
     to the writing of your essay.  Tie in a literary reference or something that you
     have read about.
      (Source:  "The Best Guide to the Top Colleges"  by Joyce Slayton Mitchell   Garrett Park Press)
 

The College Visit
  Suggestions for College Visits
If you visit before you apply, take a copy of your transcripts with you.
     (Unofficial transcripts may be obtained in the guidance office.)
If possible, plan your visit on an Open House day, or weekday when
      high school is not in session, but the college is.
Make arrangements in advance and confirm the date and time.
If you experience unavoidable delays, be sure to call the admissions office.
Visit the various colleges you are considering as early as possible.
Avoid scheduling more than two visits in one day.
If you would like to see a coach, faculty member, or find out more about a
      particular department, mention that when you call to schedule.  Most colleges
      do their best to accomodate you.
If possible, make arrangements to stay in the dorm, eat in the cafeteria, or
      attend a class.
AVOID, unscheduled "Drop in" visits.  If you must do this, be courteous and
      understanding about what the admissions staff can and can not do for you.

    Some Possible Questions to Ask at the College Visit
What are the strongest departments at the college?
What sizes are classes generally? For freshmen? For upperclassmen?
How do I compare academically with students already attending the school?
What do most students do after they graduate?  Post graduate school?  Work?
What kinds of cultural, sports, literary activities are offered on campus?
Must you join specific organizations to be part of campus life, or are there
      other ways to fit in?
What percentages of students remain on campus during the weekend?
What are the various kinds of living accommodations?
Can freshmen select their own roommates?
Are sports available for the average player?
What type of student does best at this school? What percentage return after
      their freshman year?
What percentage of students receive financial aid?  How is it awarded?
What support services are available?
What is the rate of crime on campus?  What types of incidents?
What type of access do students have to computers?  Are the dorms "wired'?
 

The College Interview
               Some tips:
Learn as much as possible about the school before you visit.
Be prepared to ask and answer questions.
Give prior thought to the things that you want to ask.  Having a list is OK.
Go alone rather than with a friend or group.  Parents may go along, but
      do not participate in the interview process.
Arrive on time or a few minutes early.
Be yourself at all times - be honest, sincere, and interested.  Smile, speak
       distinctly, make eye contact with the interviewer.
Know your background and experience and be prepared to present it in an orderly
      manner.
Be prepared to explain why you have chosen this college and what you expect to
       get out of the experience.
Be prepared to answer questions about your SAT scores, class rank, latest grades,
       and courses you have taken.
Appearance is important:  Dress neatly and be well groomed.
Thank the interviewer for his/her time and consideration.  Follow up with a thank-you
       note.
 

                          Questions commonly asked at college interviews:
Why do you want to come to ________?
What can you do for ___________college?
What has been your most valuable experience in High School?
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Who are your heroes?  Why?
What are your strengths?  Weaknesses?
How do you like to spend your free time?
What books have you read recently?  What book or article has influenced you?
What is something you think the admissions committee should know about you?
Tell me about yourself.
What can we tell you about _______College that will help with your decision?
What are the most important factors to you in choosing a college?

                    Remember:  Be assured, prepared, courteous, & BE YOURSELF!
 
 

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