|
|
Ten Tips for College & Graduate School Applicants
Years ago, many highly selective colleges and universities required that all applicants complete an interview with a staff member and/or an alumnus.
Now, far fewer educational institutions insist on an interview, although a significant number do. And, although other institutions do not use the word "interview", they often rate applicants after conversing with them. At some institutions, even students participate in applicant evaluations.
You would be well advised to assume that anything you say to an institutional representative may influence your admission decision. Here are ten ways to help yourself.
1. If a given institution is not your first choice, give no hint of that fact when speaking with institutional representatives. If it is perceived that you would prefer to go elsewhere, your chance of admission can be greatly reduced.
2. Do not express doubt about continuing your education. Graduate school applicants should not express doubt about wanting to pursue the degree program in question. For grad school applicants, expressing doubt can be the kiss of death.
3. Dress appropriately for all meetings with institutional representatives.
4. Make it your business to carefully research the institutions to which you intend to apply. The more you know, the easier your interviews will be.
5. Be aware that anything you say, including your comments to student tour guides or interviewers, may influence whether or not you are offered admission.
6. Send personalized thank you notes to the key people you meet. Take the time to write a good note; not merely a cookie cutter one.
7. If a parent or spouse accompanies you on a campus visit...which in itself is fine...be sure they understand that they should never answer for you or sing your praises to institutional representatives. Nothing is more obnoxious.
8. Have a few good questions ready, preferably those which will demonstrate your interest and/or depth of thought.
9. Do not be presumptuous about your admission to an institution, even if you appear to meet every applicable standard.
10. If possible, visit and interview with representatives of the institutions you are least interested in first. A little practice can help your performance with those which interest you most.
Successful academic interviews are not rocket science. All you need is a little preparation, decent communications skills, and a bit of common sense and you will be fine.
|
 |
Please Rate: |
|
Rating: |
 Processing ... |
(Average: Not rated) |
| Views: | 56 | |
|
| More Articles from College and University | | |
| Top Articles in College and University | | |
|
