I have the privilege and pleasure of visiting many private schools and colleges across the country, and sitting down with admissions counselors, directors, and representatives.  As we chat, we compare notes about the fast-changing landscape of admissions, how schools and students are adapting, and what factors best predict a successful application.  

It’s important to remember that admissions teams are there to answer your questions, as well as to assess the fit between the school population that they are building and the unique qualities of each applicant. In my experience, they genuinely care about making sure that BOTH sides are considered. 

So, as you’re headed into application season or on-campus visits, take these great tips along with you.

DURING THE APPLICATION PROCESS:

1. Lots of factors are considered when reviewing a student’s application. Grades and/or test scores are not the only measure. 

2. The student’s application essays are important and ARE READ, treat them as such. 

3. Even when a school is Test Optional - it’s important to take the standardized test and send the scores. 

4. Being involved in your community, both in and out of school, is important.

5. Student & Parents - Think about choosing one day a week to talk about college at home. This will prevent the college process from monopolizing everyone’s life and creating more tension than needed.

6. It’s important that parents and kids have a conversation about “non-negotiable” points/criteria when it comes to college admissions. For example,  many families are uncomfortable talking about money with their kids.  Don’t wait until the college interview to discuss how the financial realities will play out.  If there is an amount that parents plan to contribute toward tuition, or if the student is expected to figure out how to pay for college, have those conversations EARLY. 

AT CAMPUS INTERVIEWS:

7. Students:  ANYTIME you are within hearing range of a school representative, the interview is happening.  Sitting in the waiting room, taking the campus tour, anywhere.  Be polite, be engaged, be involved.  (Deb’s advice: I tell families not to make a comment, positive or negative, about a school until you are in the car and the windows are rolled up. It’s a small world and you never know who is around!)

8. Students:  Read the flyers on the walls throughout the college campus. This will provide you with incredibly insightful information about all that is offered at the school and its students. 

9. Students:  Be yourself!  Authenticity is important. Interviewers can see right through it if you aren’t genuine.

10. Parents: The interview is for your student.  If you have questions, it is great to ask them, but make sure the primary speaker in the interview is your child. The questions are directed at them.  They are the prospective student. 

And a bonus tip!   Probably goes without saying…

11. Ask lots of questions, but show that you have looked at the website.