A Guide to College Admissions Presentations for High School Juniors and Seniors
As a high school junior or senior, learning about colleges is an ongoing process. A crucial part of this journey involves understanding your options and making informed decisions. One of the best ways to do this is by attending college admissions presentations when representatives visit your high school or local area. Here’s why you should make it a priority, what questions to ask, and how to stay engaged if you can’t attend.
Why Attend College Admissions Presentations?
Direct Access to Information: College representatives provide first-hand insights about their institutions, including academic programs, campus culture, and unique opportunities. This is your chance to gather personalized information that may not be readily available online.
Personal Connection and Demonstrating Interest: Meeting admissions officers allows you to put a face to the school. Establishing a rapport can be beneficial, especially if you follow up with questions later on. These representatives generally cover your geographic area and many times are the first person to read your application once you submit, so it’s a great opportunity to develop a relationship with a decision maker.
Understanding the Application Process: Representatives can clarify specific admissions requirements, deadlines, and what they look for in applicants, which can help you ensure your application is as strong as it can be.
Questions to Ask
When attending a presentation, the representative will give a presentation and hand out materials, but always leaves time for Q&A. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions - and likely if it’s something you want to know, someone else in the audience does, too! Here are some questions that can help you dig deeper:
What does the ideal applicant look like?
Understanding their criteria can help you tailor your application.
What resources are available for students with specific interests (e.g., research, internships, study abroad)?
Do some research in advance on the college’s website - then inquire about specific programs or opportunities. This will give you insight into how the college supports your academic and career goals.
Can you describe the campus culture? What are some fun traditions on campus?
Learn about the social environment and whether it aligns with what you are looking for.
What financial aid opportunities are available?
Inquire about scholarships, grants, and the financial aid process, including deadlines and separate applications.
What advice can you share about putting together a strong application?
If you are a senior, you are well underway in crafting your applications, so be sure you are on the right track. Juniors can get a preview of what to expect.
Check out this past blog post for additional questions to ask!
If You Can’t Attend
Sometimes you have a class or exam you cannot miss, and you may not be able to attend a presentation. Here are steps you can take to stay informed:
Contact the specific admissions representative: Find out their contact info from the college center at your school. Email the rep either before or immediately after their visit and let them know you could not attend and ask the questions you would have asked. Sometimes they are doing evening events in your area that you can attend instead. Admissions officers are typically more than willing to answer questions or provide additional resources.
Request Informational Materials: Representatives generally leave extra brochures, pamphlets, or links to virtual presentations or webinars in the college office at the school, so check and see if you can review them or take them home. If you haven’t already, sign up online to be on their mailing list.
After the presentation
Follow Up: Be sure to introduce yourself to the representative after the session if you have time. Take their business card and materials. Then, send a follow up email to thank them for coming and ask any additional questions you might have. This goes a long way in building relationships and demonstrating your interest in the college.
Track It: Track all of you contact on your Demonstrated Interest Tracker!
