As college emails flood inboxes and parents ask questions, many H-F seniors are diving into the application process. This involves not only sending out applications but also meeting with representatives from their prospective schools. These meetings are invaluable opportunities for students to gather essential information about majors, scholarships, tuition and campus life.
Meeting these important people also allows representatives to put a face to a name, providing students with advantages beyond just submitting applications.
Some students may feel nervous about attending these meetings, wondering if they are adequately prepared or have the right resources to engage with the representatives.
Here are some ways to impress these individuals during upcoming meetings.
When students attend these meetings, they should bring copies of their academic transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, a resume and a notebook for taking notes.
Students are sometimes confused about what grabs colleges’ attention. It’s not just great grades and a perfect resume, a student’s personality, professionalism, research skills and respect are also important to these representatives.
One of H-F’s post-secondary counselors, Brad Kain, said that students who stand out during these meetings are “the students who have done their research and taken the time to learn about the school, and who are prepared when they walk in to meet with that representative so that their questions are unique.”
Simple aspects of the presentation can be overlooked. While students don’t need to dress up fancy, being presentable is important when meeting with these individuals.
Another H-F post-secondary counselor, Kevin Coy, stated, “I think they are looking for a genuine person who does some of the simple things: a firm handshake, eye contact while talking and the ability to carry a conversation. They also want to see if a high school student can listen and form a genuine question.”
Unfortunately, students sometimes engage in inappropriate behavior during these meetings. Goofing off, being silly, or, most importantly, being disrespectful is unacceptable. Such actions can reflect poorly not only on the student but also on H-F. It’s crucial to take your future seriously.
Colleges look for authenticity in their students—understanding their purpose and motivations. What are your passions and goals, and why do you want to go to college? This insight gives representatives a good impression, as they want to know what drives you.
Asking meaningful questions is also important during face-to-face meetings with representatives. Questions that require thought rather than simple, easily Googled answers impress college representatives because they show dedication to learning about the school and potential career paths.
Think of deeper-level questions that can elicit detailed responses about what matters to you.
Students often wonder what they are expected to bring to these meetings, and Mr. Kain said it best: an open mind.
“You’re open to listening to something new that you’ve never heard before. That open mind helps you learn whether this is a place you want to go—or, unfortunately, not,” Kain explained.
Great first impressions can make or break your opportunities. It’s not only about perfect grades and academic achievements, a negative attitude can lead to denial from a school.
It’s important to remember that while grades are significant for college admissions, the simple things often matter just as much.
