Should you interview for college?

While making my morning rounds on the internet, I came across an article on Twitter posted by My College Guide: To be or not to be: The college interview.

If you're debating on whether or not to schedule a college interview, this article does a great job at convincing you to do so.  It says:

"The college interview process, though often optional,  is a great way for you to get your questions answered, put a face to a name, and explain any bumps in your high school record face to face.  We’ve mentioned before that students who vocalize their desire to attend a particular college increase their college admittance odds – what better way than during a college interview?"

Is that true, I wondered?  Would it really increase your chances of being accepted if you came in for an interview?  To find out, I talked with a few of the admissions counselors to see what they recommend.  I asked:  If I apply to Simmons, would it help me if I went in for an interview?

Their answer?  DEFINITELY!

Every single counselor suggested applicants should stop by for an interview because the more they know about you, the better.  They explained their interviews are very informal, and more of a "get-to-know-you" information session, rather than the official job type of interview.

Ashley, a counselor who has been interviewing students for about three years, says coming for an interview really strengthens your application and gives her a sense of your passion and enthusiasm for college - something, she says, she can't tell from a piece of paper.

Cheri, another counselor, says an interview is the best way for an applicant to shine and stand out from the others.  And, if you haven't already, now is the perfect time to schedule a one-on-one.

By the way, the article mentions that some college's might not always have the time to interview every applicant.  But counselors are ALWAYS available to meet with you... because they want to!  And if you can't make it to Boston, ask if they'll be in your area because sometimes they'll even come to you.

It's never too late

It's February now, and that means the college is back into full swing.  Spring semester is well underway (although, it's hardly Spring out there... Brrrrrr!) and since all your applications are finally in, the admissions counselors are extremely busy accepting the Class of 2014.

Hopefully you sent all your materials in.  The deadline was last Monday!

But, for those of us who are procrastinators, I have great news.

This time of year is busy for everyone, not just for the Simmons community. So... the deadline is extended to March 1, 2010!

Why is this so great?  Because there's still time to apply to college.

Hooray!

Almost all colleges have stopped accepting applications.  Therefore, mark Simmons's date on your calendar, bolded and underlined:

March 1, 2010.

I mean, you already know how awesome college is, and I swear warm weather does come to Boston (eventually), so why not?  At this point, you have nothing to lose by applying.

Admissions counselors will help you through the process every step of the way.  There's still time to meet professors, check out the social life, and arrange an overnight visit to see for yourself what college is all about (just bring a coat if you visit... a heavy one.  And mittens, and a hat.  Also, bring a scarf... and wear warm boots.  Oh, and bring an umbrella... just in case.  Hey, it's New England!)

Also, don't forget to apply for financial aid while you're at it. This is very important.  Do it even if you think you don't qualify.  Always, ALWAYS apply for money.

Ok, you know the deadline, so here's what you need to do to apply:

1. Fill out an application: Print version or Online version

2.  Get a recommendation from your guidance counselor and one teacher (details are on the application).  Also, request your high school transcript - Just give the form included in the application to your guidance counselor and they will send the transcript for you.

3.  Write an essay.

4.  Submit all materials in a sealed envelope (by March 1, remember).

So, what are you waiting for?  It's never too late.  Hopefully see you in the Fall!

(Btw, Boston is absolutely GORGEOUS that time of year)

Playing the waiting game

As I mentioned in my last post, big envelopes (or those icky small ones) from college's are starting to arrive - especially if you've applied early decision.  This is the time of year when mail carriers across the country are being stalked daily while students rush home after school to be the first to grab the mail.  Most of you are waiting on that one fat envelope from your top choice, but of course, are only receiving responses from your 2nd, 3rd, or even 5th choice schools.

Oh, the agony!

But don't let that discourage you.  There's a lot to be said for being accepted to any college - even your so-called safety.

So, since no one likes to wait around, here are a couple things you can do before your letter finally comes:

1.  Get to know your other choices!  You already know all about your first choice - right down to the water pressure in the dorm showers.  But have you taken the time to really learn about the schools that are lower on your list?  Check out their websites, talk to the admissions counselors, schedule an overnight visit, or for a more candid, insiders look, check if the colleges have profiles on social networking sites - it's the best way to talk with current students, professors, alumni, and staff who can answer your questions on pretty much anything!  Who knows, you might discover something you love about the school that you missed the first time around.

2.  Choose a major.  Many colleges let you apply without declaring a major.  If you've been undecided, start thinking about what you're most interested in studying.  By comparing which of your offers has the best program, the decision on where to attend becomes easier.  Shameless plug:  Nursing, communications, and psychology are all top majors at Simmons!  It's OK, though, if you still want to wait on it a bit.  Liberal arts colleges give you the option to check out a few courses first and will allow you to wait until your sophomore year before officially choosing a major.  Inter-disciplinary study does have it's advantages!

3.  Apply for financial aid.  This is, perhaps, the most important.  Once you've been accepted to your schools, it's time to start thinking about how you're going to pay for it.  For the majority of you, I'm sure your parents have already started hounding you about the paperwork.  Sometimes a decision rests on which school will give you the most aid, so the sooner you apply, the sooner you'll know which class of 2014 you'll belong to.  Even if you don't think you'll qualify aid, still, absolutely, 100% apply because you never know.  Also, start looking into grants and scholarships from local organizations in your community (fire stations, rotary clubs, libraries, etc.).  They may only offer small amounts, but any money helps and textbook expenses can add up.  At Simmons, you already have a counselor who can walk you through the process - even if you haven't yet applied.

Hopefully now you have some ideas to keep yourself busy.  It should distract you long enough to stop you from peering through the curtains, at least.  My guess is maybe you already received your envelope after all!