Palmer Trinity School

palmertrinity.org 19 » Your opening sentence needs to "grab" the reader. Admissions people read so many essays that an imaginative opening will grab their attention. » Do not allow others to become involved in the writing process, other than as proofreaders. It will be obvious if someone else wrote the essay for you! » Spelling, punctuation, grammar, clarity, and neatness all matter, and they can sabotage an otherwise competent and compelling essay. » Allow plenty of time to write your essay(s). Edit, re-edit and proofread again and again! » If you wait until the last minute, it will show. THE COLLEGE INTERVIEW ere are a number of variations in the interview policies at colleges. ey include one of the following four options: no interview – group information sessions only; alumni interviews only – off-campus; interviews are optional and informational only; interviews are encouraged and do become part of the student's application file. If the college does offer an on-campus or alumni interview, we recommend that you take advantage of the opportunity. What can you do to prepare? » Read all available material on the college beforehand. » Do not ask questions that are answered in the material. » Be prepared to comment on particular programs that combine your talents and interests. » Be prepared for cryptic questions (e.g. "What would you like to talk about?"). We have provided on the following page, the kinds of questions you might be asked. ink about each one and try to practice your answer aloud either at the dinner table or in the car with a parent. If you have thought these through, you should be well prepared for any question. 1. Please visit each college's website and pay close attention to their interview policies, requirements, and deadlines. 2. Be prompt. Call if you are going to be late. 3. Try to be relaxed. Dress appropriately (at least neatly – no jeans). 4. Turn off cell phones and don't chew gum. 5. Avoid asking questions already answered in the catalogue or viewbook (which you should have read) and be prepared to ask thoughtful questions. 6. Be prepared to engage in a conversation. You should talk about your strengths, what excites you intellectually and what your goals are. Without being arrogant, haughty or overbearing, you should be confident that you have a great deal to offer a college. 7. Finally, take time to send your interviewer a thank- you note after the visit (so make sure you have his/ her name written down). is gesture is appreciated. SAMPLE COLLEGE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS 1. How do you like PTS? What has been the most positive experience you have had? e most negative? What would you like to change about PTS? 2. What is your role in the school community? What would your teachers say about you? 3. What is the most significant contribution you have made to your school? 4. What are you looking for in a college? 5. What are some of your goals – personal and career – for the future? 6. Tell me about an assignment in which you found yourself stimulated intellectually. 7. What do you like best about participating in extracurricular activities? 8. Since you are interested in science or math (where appropriate), why are you interested in a liberal arts college rather than a more technical institution?

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