5 Things to Expect at a College Visit
1. The person who will likely review your application.
Many colleges work on the territory manager system, so the admissions representative at a college visit is probably responsible for all the applications coming from your high school, and possibly from your city or state. This individual not only visits your school but will likely be the first person to review your application. Be sure to make a good impression.
2. An inquiry card
Colleges love data, and we know how much students love getting brochures in the mail :). Filling out an inquiry card helps colleges learn who is interested in their institution, and gives students more information and resources to make an informed college decision.
3. Average GPA and test scores for admitted students
So what does it take to be admitted? It is important to remember that average stats for admitted students are just that…averages. Students are admitted to USC with scores above and below our middle 50% range. While it is important to do well in school, it is also important to understand that there are no minimums or cutoffs for admission to USC. We also evaluate your involvement, writing, and letters of recommendation.
4. The question, “Do you have any questions?”
Yes, we are stellar admission counselors and awesome presenters, but there is no way for us to cover everything in a 45 minute visit. I am 99.99% sure that you will be asked if you have any questions, and frankly it’s awkward if you don’t have any. Do your research on the college before the visit, so that you have questions prepared for the rep. How easy is it to double major? Does my major require that I submit a portfolio? What type of study abroad opportunities do you have? These are all great examples.
5. A business card
As point #1 says, the person visiting your school will likely also read your application. Be sure to get their contact info so you know how to get in touch if you have questions in the future. Make sure to put your name and USC ID # in any email correspondence so we know who you are. And last but not least, leave a call back number if you leave a voicemail…you’d be surprised how many forget to do this 🙂
What if you can’t make it to the visit?
It is highly unlikely that you will be able to attend every college visit of interest to you, but don’t fret. At USC, we realize that you are busy high school seniors, and not showing up to our visit will not reflect poorly on you or your application to USC. If you have questions feel free to reach out to your territory manager so you can get your questions answered. To find your territory manager, search “USC find my admission counselor” and enter the name of your high school.