Hello world! As a participant of the web log team, I am so excited to share numerous of my day-to-day experiences as an Assistant Director of Admission at USC. When I speak to my friends and family members about my job, they often times ask questions like ‘what do you are doing on a daily foundation?’ or ‘do you have actually to work in the summer?’ I’m hoping that through my additions that are monthly this blog, you’ll get a much better concept of what we do each and every day as admission counselors.
So let’s start with the current. This i woke up at the Courtyard Marriott in Vienna, VA morning. My visit that is first began 7:45 am. That may appear early with a, reasonable to others, but I can let you know, this morning at 7:45 am, we ended up being tired (7:45 am in VA seems like 3:45 am in CA…oy.) You see, my journey from Los Angeles was expected to reach Reagan National Airport at 3:43 pm yesterday (become exact.) But instead, due to a wet cockpit seat (I kid you not,) my trip was delayed three hours. Luckily, my first school check out this morning always has coffee waiting for me, and I was specially appreciative today (Thanks Sheila!) I visit, at this school it’s a different format which consists mostly of me answering questions although I usually give about a 30 minute presentation to students when. Thankfully the learning students came prepared. They asked great questions and I also think we only stuttered a times that are few.
I’d some time to kill before my visit that is second and found a Peet’s Coffee on my way. I stopped for many breakfast and a coffee refill. In a world that is perfect arrive about 10 mins ahead of a call, but usually I’m about 15 to 20 minutes early. Thankfully, my car’s air conditioning kept me cool while I consumed my bagel and drank my latte. Today I was also able to talk with some counselors which can be always a highlight of my time. University counselors are often full of information regarding students, their schools, and usually life in general. It also reminds me personally of my high school days where I invested a complete lot of the time on my counselor’s settee.
Just How coffee that is many are you able to find in this photo?
My 3rd see today had been to a school i have never checked out before. There were about eight students present and something had been even using a USC t-shirt. This student, let’s call him Brandon, said about his recent visit to campus so we had a moment to gush over how USC that is pretty is. I really like sharing common USC experiences with pupils, particularly whenever I’m abroad.
Finally, between my third and fourth visit this early morning, I became able to grab a 6′ veggie delight as I drove to the following highschool. Upon checking in, my picture from last year’s see appeared in their computer, a great reminder of the relationships I continue to create at each school.
After my fifth and visit that is final, I returned to my hotel, debriefed my day in the shape of notes and headed to the closest Starbucks to catch through to some work. My first instinct is often to check my email. Oh look! I obtained a contact from Brandon thanking me for my visit and asking a question about something I pointed out. Love when that occurs!
I really hope to satisfy many of you as I continue my travels! If there’s other things you wish to know about our experiences visiting your school that is high feel absolve to leave concerns in the remark section and I shall do my best to make contact with you quickly!
Fight On!
Mythbuster: we have to show the admission counselors that USC is my top choice
The Myth: Attending college fairs, visits and tours will increase my likelihood of admission.
The Verdict: Not at USC.
Every late August/early September, there are 5 or so emails in my inbox every morning utilizing the subject ‘Introduction to USC.’ These emails usually have the same general format. ‘Hello Jessica- just wished to tell you that I go to ABC highschool, I play baseball and I also can not wait to apply to USC. I have always wished to be described as a learning pupil in the Marshall School of company.’ Ok great, but what am I supposed to state? Good fortune along with your baseball season? Every winter, I have similar emails with the subject ‘Update.’ Students tell me how their first semester went, they got the role that is lead the spring musical, and that USC is still their first choice. Awesome, but chances are I already saw your senior year grades (or will soon).
At USC, we usually do not monitor a student’s interest outside associated with actual application for admission decision purposes. Attending our programs is a wonderful way to learn more about USC, but planning to an event or sending emails like those I described will not increase your chances of admission towards the college.
As admission counselors, it really is true with any help you may need that we are your main contact as you go through the admission process at USC and we are happy to assist you. However, students just benefit from trying to us they can’t find the answer online if they have specific questions- especially questions to which. I think students often confuse this role and make the assumption us and initiate a conversation in order to have a shot at admission that they HAVE to email.
So how will you show us you’re thinking shmoop essay about USC? as opposed to investing your time emailing us with updates, it is in your best interest to use the period to get results on your a reaction to the application question ‘Describe your academic interest and exactly how you want to pursue them at USC.’ You should discuss specific resources and opportunities you would like to take advantage of at USC. Rather than emailing us your list of activities, fill the activity Summary out thoroughly. A thoughtful and very carefully assembled application stands out a lot more than an introduction e-mail or an invitation to coffee.
Bear in mind that some schools may monitor demonstrated interest. Some colleges may expect all students to reach away to them, while other people may expect students within the geographic area to check out campus. The notion of demonstrated interest differs, if it is factored into an admission decision so you should always ask a school if and how they track interest and.
At the end of the day, we do want to see that you are thinking about USC and that you are seriously considering being a student here. The way that is best to help you articulate this interest is throughout your application.