1 dda, Making The Most Of CampusVisits And Interviews by Toby Waldorf (NAPSA)—Two smart ways to learn more about colleges are to visit the campuses and to schedule interviews. Visits are the best way to get a sense of how you'll fit in with the lifestyle of a campus. Visiting also tells admissionsofficers that you have more than a superficial interest in their school. Another way to show interest in a Toby Waldorf college is to interview, either while on campus, at home with an alumni interviewer, or on your high school campus with a college representative. A few things to remember when visiting schools: * All campuses provide tours and information sessions. Check their Web sites or call the admissionsoffice to obtain the schedule. * Try to visit when classes are in session so you can see what the students are like (they could be your future classmates and friends), not just how the buildings look. * Ask students about campus life to get an idea of how thesocial and academic environment will suit you. Better yet, see for yourself by sitting in on a class and spending a night in a dorm. * Bring a campus visit tip sheet with you when you visit. One can be found at the Website www.Destination-U.net. A few things to help with your interview: * Dress comfortably in clothes that are appropriate and make you feel good about how you look. * Offer the interviewer a firm handshake, make strong eye contact, and sit with one foot forward to avoid slouching in yourchair. You’ll appear far more relaxed than youfeel. * Do your homework. Read up about the college before you visit so that you'll be prepared to ask and answer questions intelligently. * Try asking your interviewer what he or she liked most and least about life on campus— chances are you'll get an earful. * Send a thank-you note to your interviewer. Makeit personal by including something specific that you discussed. To learn more about campus visits and college interviews, visit www.Destination-U.net. * Toby Waldorf, a member of the National Association of College Admissions Counselors, is recognized for her successful approach to college matching. She is the founder of Destination-U, an online service that matches students to colleges where they are mostlikely to thrive. w---------------------------- Oe tee eee nnn eee eee eee een ne Editor’s Note: This is the second in a series of stories, any one of which can also be used alone.
