Make the Most of a College Rep’s Visit

College representative visits offer a valuable opportunity to learn more about a college or university. In the fall, colleges send representatives to visit high schools or communities to generate interest in their school and create a line of communication between their admissions office and students.

If your are at all interested in a college, make the effort to attend. Face-time with a representative indicates that you're interested in the school, gives you a direct line of contact at the school, and can be very informative to boot. (And if you're not interested in the college? Consider going anyway, and using the visit as a practice-run for others you may attend. You'll learn what to expect, ways to better prepare, and maybe even discover that you're actually interested the school once you hear more about it!)

Make the most of these interactions:

1. Research the school beforehand.

Before meeting with a college rep, students should familiarize themselves with the institution. This means learning about the school's programs and activities, and identifying what appeals to them about their offerings and mission. A student should be prepared to communicate their interest in and curiosity about the college.

2. Have questions ready

Be prepared to ask thoughtful questions - those that go beyond the basic information you can find online. And focus on what genuinely matters to you, like a specific academic program, campus life, or opportunities for internships, rather than trying to ask a question you think might impress the rep.

3. Make a good impression.

• Be attentive.  A representative may hold an information session, may offer one-on-one discussions, or both. It’s crucial to stay engaged for all of it! Active listening will not only help you absorb important information, it can help you come up with unique questions to ask, and will be noticed (and appreciated!) by the rep.
• Turn off your phone. (Does it need to be said? Hopefully not. But it's a good reminder nonetheless!) Also avoid checking your phone during the visit. Your attention shows that you value the representative’s time and the information being shared.
• Be respectful & polite.  Good manners go a long way! Politeness reflects well on you and can make you more memorable. Avoid side conversations with friends, give others a chance to ask their questions, address the representative formally, and be sure to thank the rep before leaving!
• Be confident & relaxed.  Even if you don't actually feel confident, "fake it till you make it" -- maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and use your body language to convey a air of confidence.

4. Leave a paper trail.

Make sure to sign any attendance sheets or enter your contact information where asked. This demonstrates your interest and ensures that the rep has a record of your participation.

5. Wrap things up.

Ask for the representative's contact information before you leave. Then after the visit, follow up with a thank-you note. In the note, be sure to highlight specific points from their presentation that were noteworthy, helpful, or interesting, or things you may have discussed with them directly. This gesture shows appreciation and is a great way to open a line of communication.

 

Bottom line: Your goal should be to gain insight into and make a lasting impression on a college you may potentially attend.