<p>It's around the time of year that college admissions reps are visiting my school. I know it's a good opportunity to learn more about the schools and let them know who you are. What are some good things to ask them?</p>
<p>Who can speak for you, firebolt? You ask about what’s important to you (that you can’t find on their webpages). Perhaps you’ve read about a certain major. Perhaps you’ve heard rumors of class sizes or ability/inability to get into certain classes. Maybe it’s the religious environment. Perhaps a school tends to be populated by kids from only one region and that fits/does not fit into what you’d like. Co-op opportunities? Funding to study abroad? Culture in the surrounding area? Volunteer opps? Perhaps you’ve heard of the social life and have more questions. Financial aid. Diversity. Dating vs. hooking up. Sports & rah-rah atmosphere. Career placement. </p>
<p>There’s no set of questions: it’s based on what is of value to you. Ask yourself what is important. That will lead you to the things you’ll want to ask from the school reps.</p>
<p>Then listen for the differences in answers. for instance: “Does your school encourage co-ops?” </p>
<p>Everyone will say “YES, definitely!” </p>
<p>But another school might say: “It’s one of our strong points. 80% of juniors and sophomores get co-ops through our X program which funnels them into companies which we’ve had long standing relationships. This means a huge proportion of our graduates have meaningful experience on their resumes and is a reason for our great placement record”</p>
<p>You’re shopping. Learn to be discerning in the sales message schools are pitching to you.</p>