College Visits & Interviews

College Visits

It is strongly recommended by school counselors and college admissions representatives that visits are a vital component in the college selection process. Except where a visit is impossible, no student should select a college without having spent some time on the campus.

Most colleges and universities prefer to meet with prospective students and often do so through an interview. At some schools an interview is required as part of the application process. Remember, the interview process is also a time for you to get answers to questions you might have and to learn more about the college – much more than you will in a catalog or website.

Additionally, the KCS Counseling office has many helpful materials available for you, including a handy checklist, so that you will be fully prepared for your college visit.

Tips for College Visits

• Call for an appointment. Tours of the campus are often available and are a recommended part of the college visit. At most schools, a tour requires an appointment. Also, plan to schedule an appointment with the college Financial Aid office.
• If you are a student with special needs, a visit to the Student Support Services office is also strongly recommended.
• Allow yourself adequate time for the visit (recommended half a day). You will want to be sure you have enough time for an interview and tour, meet with a financial aid advisor, try the dining facilities, talk with students, sit in on a class, and get a general sense of the campus. Try to gain a feeling of whether or not you will be comfortable there.
• Be on time, act professionally, and dress appropriately. Also show interest, be inquisitive and do most of the talking yourself (not your parents).
• Bring credential materials such as a copy of your transcript and resume.
• Bring paper to take notes - especially if the visit is one of several scheduled in a row.
• Prior to the visit, reread information about the college and programs of interest. Admissions representatives like to see that you have done some research and that you are serious about their particular college.

Interviews

Interview Questions

Sample questions to ask while on a college visit/interview. A detailed list can be found in the Counseling office.

• When should I apply? What are the deadlines?
• What are the advantages of early decision or early action at your college?
• Are there required college entrance exams? (SAT, ACT, LSAT, SAT II)
• What if my high school average is not strong? Are there alternative admissions programs?
• What kind of academic advisement is available?
• What types of student support services are available? What types of documentation will I need to provide?
• What types of financial aid are available?
• What financial aid forms are required? When?
• Is this school thought of as safe and/or crime-free? What about the surrounding communities? What safety precautions does the school take or what services are offered?
• What are the opportunities for extracurricular involvement (athletics, clubs, etc.)?

Common questions you can expect to be asked during the college interview process.

1. Can you tell me about yourself?
2. What is your greatest achievement or asset?
3. What would our friends and teachers say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
4. What is the most important contribution you have made to your school or community?
5. Other than a good education, what makes you interested in our college?
6. What questions do you have about our college?
7. What would you do if you did not attend college?
8. What do you see yourself doing twenty years from now?
9. What can you contribute to student life here?
10. What would you like me to know about you, which would help us to make a fair decision on your application?
11. What points about yourself would you like to leave with me so that I can present your strongest side to our admissions committee?