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Getting
into college is as simple as 1-2-3 -- if you know all the
tools to get you in the door.
Dear
College Dean... Can I Get In?
by
Lynda Kessler
March 2002
The
CollegeBound Network NewsClick --
Applications, essays, letters of recommendation, resumes --
sounds like too much to have to send to the colleges in which
you're interested. Besides, they should accept you just for
getting through all that paperwork, right? Unfortunately,
it doesn't work that way. You've got to give the schools what
they want -- proof that you're worthy of their enrollment
acceptance. But, thanks to Joyce Mitchell, a college admissions
expert and author of Winning the Heart of the College Admissions
Dean (Ten Speed Press, 2001), we've got advice that'll
show you how to impress the decision-makers and up your chances
of getting into your choice U.
First
off, it's very important to learn about the schools before
you actually speak to the admissions counselors. Then, advises
Mitchell, ask key college questions they'd be knowledgable
at answering, not those you can find by viewing the school's
Web site. (That means, basic ones like "What SATs do
I have to have to get in?; Is it better to get an 'A' in an
honors course or a 'B' in an AP course?" are out!) As
for generalized questions, such as information on the advisable
classes, that's something you can find out on Web sites like
CollegeBound.net and Kaplan.com.
Another
very interesting bit of information Mitchell shares in her
book, is regarding the SAT IIs. "They should be taken
at the end of the course in June, no matter what year it is,"
she explains. "Students must check with each of their
choice colleges to determine which SAT IIs are required, since
each college is different and changes year by year."
In other words, don't take the exams two years after you finish
the course -- the material won't be fresh in your mind by
that point.
When
it comes to face-to-face meetings with college officials (i.e.
admissions counselors, alumni, and other college representatives),
Mitchell says, "Be friendly rather than confrontational.
The main thing in the interview is to look happy to be there.
No gum, [and] watch your slang -- sullen doesn't sell."
Of course, enthusiasm is great, but don't overdo that either.
Mitchell advises you to be yourself and show an interest in
the school.
Following
up on Mitchell's admissions advice won't guarantee a seat
in the classroom, but it'll sure give you an added edge, and
that's exactly what you'll need. Besides, you're not the only
one who wants to get a higher education. Ask yourself this:
Are you ready to woo the powers-that-be? If so, get on your
mark, get set... get prepared!
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