One effective way to evaluate the best fit for you for college is speaking with college admissions representatives. They will explain the admissions process, your academic program of interest and available student support services before you make a commitment.

All of this information is effective when speaking with trade union representatives or military representatives as well.

*Specific trade/military questions at the end*

1. You want to show admissions officers you’re generally interested in attending their institution and this is best done by knowing about it. Before meeting an admissions representative or tour guide, spend some time on the college’s website and social media channels to familiarize yourself with the school. As you research, write down any questions that you have and ask them at your meeting.

2. College admissions are serious business, so treat it as such by dressing in a professional manner. Business casual is a safe standard. For men, this means khakis or dress slacks, a long-sleeved collared shirt, and polished shoes. The standard for women is similar, but with the additional option of wearing a skirt or dress. You should present a neat and well-kept appearance—keep in mind that you want admissions reps to remember you for your charming personality and insightful questions, not an over-the-top beard or colorful makeup.

3. Just as you should dress like a professional, you’ll also want to act like one.

• Turn your cell phone off before the meeting

• Smile and look the representative in the eye when talking

• Have a firm (but not crushing) handshake

• Take your time and give thoughtful and honest answers to questions

4. Lastly, be yourself! This is a chance to let your personality shine and for admissions officials to see the “real” person behind the test scores and grades.

After your meeting, follow up with a handwritten note or email thanking the admissions representative for their time and expressing your interest in their institution. If there was something specific you connected with the admissions officer over, mention it.

ADMISSIONS

What is your GPA/SAT/ACT profile?

Do you require SAT II subject tests for admission?

Do you require an essay, resume, or letters of recommendation?

Are there separate admissions criteria for different majors?

If scholarships are available, do I need to apply for them separately?

What is the application deadline?

ACADEMICS

What are some of your most popular majors?

Are there internships or field experience opportunities available?

Are internships required for any specific majors?

What is the average class size?

Are classes taught by professors or teaching assistants?

What types of academic support/tutoring services are available?

Is credit given for AP/College level courses? If so, what grade is required?

How many general education/liberal arts classes are required? What types of courses satisfy this requirement?

COSTS

What is the cost of tuition?

What is the cost of room and board?

What types of employment opportunities are available on campus to help me pay for tuition?

What types of scholarships do you offer?

LIVING ON CAMPUS

What types of dorms are available?

Are freshman required to live on campus?

Is housing guaranteed for all four years?

What percentage of freshman live on campus? What percentage of undergraduates lives on campus?

Can students have cars on campus?

Is there a fee for parking on campus? Is parking readily available?

Are there on-campus shuttles available? Does the college provide transportation to off-campus locations?

What types of food plans are available?

Is there security on campus?

What types of events does the campus host for students?

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

What type of athletic programs are available?

What types of student clubs and activities are available?

Can students create their own clubs?

Does the school sponsor any trips for students?

JOINING A UNION

Are there specific requirements for an entry-level position? (ex. Apprenticeship, test, physical, interview etc.)

Can you briefly explain the process of applying to your trade union?

What educational background does your trade union look for in an employee?

What skills does your trade union look for most in an employee?

SALARY/BENEFITS

What is the starting salary?

What are some of the benefits associated with joining your trade union? (ex. Medical, retirement, etc.)

PLANNING AHEAD

What are the opportunities for advancement?

What is a typical five year trajectory for someone in your trade union?

PERSONAL OPINIONS

What are the biggest challenges associated with working for your trade union?

What do you enjoy most about working for your trade union?

REQUIREMENTS FOR ENLISTING

What are the requirements for joining the military? (ex. Educational, testing, health & fitness, etc)

What do I have to score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to qualify?

How can I prepare to take the ASVAB?

What does my ASVAB score mean?

What documents do I need to start the recruiting process?

SALARY/BENEFITS

What is the pay like for military jobs?

What are some of the benefits associated with joining the military? (ex. Pension, retirement benefits, state, federal, etc)

Does the military help pay for college if I decide to get my degree?

SERVING

How long do I have to enlist for?

What is the difference between enlisting in the Reserves and Active Duty?

How long is basic training? Where is it? What is it like?

Where could I be assigned?

PLANNING AHEAD

How can candidates get specific military jobs that they are interested in?

What are the training and advancement opportunities for jobs in the military?

Where can I do more research?

Who can I contact if I have more questions?