COLLEGE VISITS AND INTERVIEWS

One of the best reasons for a campus visit is to see the facilities first-hand and to feel the academic and social environment and atmosphere. Colleges give a great deal of factual information in their publications, but each individual responds differently to the reality of a college campus. Besides, colleges are in a competitive market for students and try to make themselves appear as appealing as possible. Their publications naturally make the college look good; the question is, is it good for you?

Most campus visits are made during the summer after junior year and the fall of senior year. The most realistic impression of a college is gained by visiting on a weekday when classes are in session, but a visit on a weekend or during the summer can also provide a good general impression of the school. If you plan to visit colleges during the summer and have not decided on your first choices, try to visit a variety of types of schools, i.e., a large state university, a women's college, a small private co-ed college, etc. You are allowed to miss classes for college visits but check with the principal well in advance before making definite plans. Notification from your parents must be made IN WRITING to the principal before you leave on your visit.  The procedure is as follows: The student brings to Mrs. Ripps the ABSENCE/DISMISSAL FORM at least a week in advance, and Mrs. Ripps gives the student a sheet which must be signed by all of her teachers and must be given to Sister Lieux for approval.

Before you leave:

Make arrangements with the admissions office by phoning for an appointment well in advance of the day you wish to visit. Try to be flexible.

Read the catalog and other publications carefully. Avoid asking questions answered in the booklets. Write down specific questions you have about the school, facilities, classes, etc.

Be prepared to give the admissions people accurate information about courses you have taken and are taking, your test scores, rank in class and GPA, extracurricular activities, awards, interests, etc. A prepared "résumé" sheet is helpful.

During the visit:

One purpose of speaking to someone in the admissions office is to give a realistic picture of yourself and to add a human dimension to the factual data of your file. Be yourself, be sincere and don't be afraid to be frank about your accomplishments and strengths. It is appropriate to inquire whether you are a realistic candidate for a particular college, but do not expect or press for an absolute answer. Remember that the interview is also a time for you to learn about the college.

Try to spend at least a half day on the campus. Take a tour, sit in a class, eat a meal on campus, browse in the library, talk to students, go to the student center, get copies of the newspaper and MAKE NOTES.

After the visit:

Write a summary of your findings and impressions. Do not rely on your memory.

Be sure to write a thank-you note to those officials who helped you.

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