College admissions representatives begin their fall visits in August and conclude sometime in November. Your high school counselor is probably busy scheduling these visits right now. The representatives share information with prospective applicants and allow students time to ask pertinent questions about the search and application process.  This is a great time for seniors and juniors, who are interested in gathering data, to meet the representatives face-to-face.  The admissions officer may be the one who will eventually read your college application.

Here’s a list of places you may be able to meet with admissions representatives:

• College fairs at nearby schools
• College night information programs
• High school visits
• Recruitment events at local hotels
• PROBE fairs at local malls
• Admissions events on campus
• Online at College Week Live
• Speak with an Admission Counselor on Skype – Using Skype and a webcam, prospective undergraduate students applying as freshman, transfer or adult students can speak from home or school directly with an admission counselor.  Many schools allow student s to make appointments during the day. Check with the admissions office to see if the college or university has this set-up.

You can also contact the admissions officers directly to see when the representative will be in your neighborhood. If you know when he or she will be visiting your area, drop the officer a note or email introducing yourself sharing your plan to meet with them at the specific location. This is also a great time to let them know some interesting tidbit about your school community. If you are playing in a game or are involved in a  school play, let them know the dates and times. Sometimes the representatives have time on their hands between destinations and would love to know more about your area.

Remember to prepare for the meeting by doing some homework. Gather information about the college and create a list of questions you want answered. Maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and complete their information card. Write them a thank you for the opportunity to meet the following day.

One last note, campus tours and overnights are another way to meet with a representative.  Many colleges offer these sessions throughout the year, so be sure to check the school’s website for details. Once you get on campus, sign in at the admissions office. You want them to know you have arrived!