College : It's coming!

For those of you dreading that college interview, here are some tips to help ease your mind. Ms. Dykens, an English teacher at RFA offers these hints.

"Students should go to their interviews prepared . . . avoid asking whether or not the college has certain majors. Do your research before and know what you want to talk about."

During the interview, remember to "...speak distinctly and make eye contact...don't play with your hair or put your hand near your mouth," says Ms. Dykens. Also remember "...it's important to be open and honest...try to connect with your interviewer."

Examples of questions to ask are: What choices of dorm arrangements are available? What orientation activities are conducted? What percentage of students go on to graduate schools? What about job placement information? What can they tell me about the quality of the program I am interested in? What work oppurtunities exist off campus if I can't get enough financial aid? If you're interested, ask whether there is a school newspaper written by students. Bring home a copy and get an idea how students view the campus life.

These questions and others to ask can be found in the senior guidebooks given to students by their guidance counselors. In the guidebook it also stresses how it is ok to bring your parents with you; just remember that you should do the talking because it is you who is planning to attend the college.

Mr. Varanese, guidance counselor at RFA, says to "Talk to the students, not just the administration." According to Varanese, the students will give a more in-depth view of the college from students and not just the good parts. He also says that it is a good idea to spend the night at the college.

To obtain a college interview, simply call the admisssions office and set up a date and time. Good luck!

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