FAQ #1: If a college representative comes to my campus and holds a meeting at the same time I’m scheduled to take a test, what do I do?

ANSWER: No college rep wants to feel that he or she has been snubbed or forgotten by a student who is applying to his or her college. If a college meeting takes place during a class, ask your teacher to be excused to visit the college rep. (Many teachers require 24 hour advance notice.) In addition to making the contact, this is a great way of doing research on a college.

It’s always nice for college admissions people to meet students who are excited about their college. They also like it when students seem to understand what the college is all about, and why they (the students) and the college are a good match.

If somehow you are unable to attend a college meeting (a teacher won’t excuse you; you have a test, you have to be away for an athletic event), try to find a way of stopping by to introduce yourself and explain the reason why you cannot be at the meeting. You might say something such as:

Hi, I'm Debby Lange. Thanks so much for coming to our school. I'm really excited about the possibility of coming to your college. I would love to hear what you have to say in the meeting, but my AP (name the class) teacher has told me that I have to be in class today.

If you can’t do that, it is both a wise move and a courteous response IN ADVANCE of the meeting, to let your high school college counselor and the college rep know why you won’t be at the meeting. You might also remind them of other contacts you have (or will have) with the college, e.g., college visit. You can do this in person, by a note or phone call or by e-mail. But do it.

If you are able to attend a college meeting, be sure to get the business card of the individual(s) from the college and send them a thank-you note or email.

Any of the above will be appreciated and hopefully remembered by the college rep.