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Featuring Pat Armstrong, director of admissions, St. John's University (Queens, NY)

Q: I plan to take some  

campus tours

  over winter break, but I've been told that's a bad time, since no one will be on campus. Do you recommend I cancel my trips?

A. Absolutely do not cancel your campus visit plans. While it's certainly true that student activity is less visible and departmental visits may be difficult to arrange around the holidays, you will still be in position to make some preliminary choices in selecting the colleges to which you want to apply.

Colleges will provide you with opportunities for information sessions, individual interviews -- and perhaps best of all -- student-led campus tours! I strongly recommend these because they provide ample opportunity to interact with a current student and get the "real scoop" about academics and Campus life.

Although classes are not in session, you'll still get a feel for the campus. Observe what the classrooms are like -- is modern technology available in the teaching setting? Will the science labs provide the opportunity to use up-to-date research technologies? How advanced are the computer labs and library facilities? Student organizations and sports/recreational facilities are also important -- just because they're a bit less crowded doesn't mean you can't check them out to seek the answers to your questions. And, you'll definitely want to see the residential housing complex and discuss community activity plans.

Of course, the most important aspect of college selection is the academic opportunity, so in addition to getting a feel for the campus, be sure to inquire about academic programs. Does the college offer research options and self-designed majors? What about academic advising and support? If you have no idea what you'd like to major in -- or, have multiple interests, and want flexibility -- are there options that allow you more academic freedom? Also, visit the Career center and inquire about assistance provided in securing internships and, upon Graduation, admission to graduate school or that big move into a career.

So be sure to visit this break; your tours will help you develop your college choices. Of course, I do want to stress that for a second look, you should return prior to making an enrollment decision. Have fun!

Q: I feel I have a lot to gain by setting up an admission interview. Any advice?

A: The college interview is a wonderful way to exchange information -- and particularly, to provide the chance to offer insight into the real you! In other words, interviews are excellent, so long as you take time to prepare. You'll want to be able to highlight accomplishments that might not come across on paper.

Before: Research the school using guides, brochures, and, for the most up-to-date information -- the college's Web site. Think about what you're looking for in a college, and formulate questions to ask prior to the event. It's a good idea to ask the same questions, with individually-tailored ones, too, at each school so you have comparative data to help determine "good fits."

During: It's easier said than done, but relax and enjoy this exciting time in your life! Admission professionals realize how difficult these interview sessions can be, and will put you at ease. Remember, we were all in the same position at one point in our lives. Counselors are conducting interviews to gain insight into you and your accomplishments -- both academic and extracurricular. They're not looking to eliminate you during this process, but rather to nurture you and gather additional knowledge on the potential for your success at their institution.

Find out about academics and student life. Inquire as to whether you would have been accepted if you'd applied the previous year -- in other words, see if you're a likely candidate for admission. You'll also want information on the number of entering freshmen who return for their sophomore year. How are graduation rates -- both in general and in your particular major? You should determine the positive outcomes of your education by asking what recent alumni are doing in their fields of specialization. Again -- preparation is key: Determine what you want to know. Being prepared will allow you to relax the day of the interview and showcase yourself!

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