In the highly competitive landscape of the college search, most admissions counselors aren’t known for sharing tips on how to apply to just anyone. But that is exactly what happens during the summer at the College of the Holy Cross.
The Telegram & Gazette featured the College’s “July Advisory Days” program, where Holy Cross offers any rising high school seniors—whether they are planning to apply to Holy Cross or not—the opportunity to attend free workshops. Workshops include hands-on information on completing college applications, preparing for an interview, writing a personal essay, and other essential parts of the admissions process. Led by Diane Soboski, associate director of admissions, she offered the following: “Applications are flat. If we have a 25-minute conversation with you, we can learn a lot about you as a person.” Interviews at Holy Cross are conducted by current students, admissions counselors, or alumni and, although optional, are evaluative and considered a part of the student’s application.
Some of tips offered in the article include:
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. If you're running late, call.
- Ask questions of your interviewer, but not too many. Have some written down.
- Maintain appropriate eye contact. Don't stare at your interviewer, but don't stare out the window, either.
- Send a thank-you note. Handwritten is nice, but emailed notes are acceptable nowadays.
Soboski explains that interviewers understand students are nervous, but says, “We're not trying to trip you up. It's a conversation, not a quiz."
This is a “Holy Cross in the News” item by Evangelia Stefanakos.
