7/22/2009 09:20:48 AM
The new look and feel of SU
Posted by Jason Moy on Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Hi all,
You've probably noticed the snazzy new look of the admissions webpage - we're still rolling out content, and learning how to tweak things, so let us know if you stumble across anything that doesn't work.
6/19/2009 12:59:11 PM
College Visitation Tips
Posted by Hiroko Narimatsu on Friday, June 19, 2009
Summer has not officially started, however the weather in Seattle is making us think otherwise. We’ve had some gorgeous blue skies and warm weather…it’s these lovely days that make up for the last few months of wintery gray skies.
In addition to more sun, here in the Admissions Office we’re starting to see more and more high school juniors (soon to be seniors) start their college search process. If you’re a student looking to begin college in Fall 2010, now is the time to put together that wish list of things you do or don’t want in a school. Getting that list to a manageable number can be a challenge, but the best way to figure out what you want (or what you don’t) is to visit college campuses!
As many of you are head out to visit various universities over the summer and early fall, check our quick list of tips and ideas to make the most of each trip.
Before your visit:
Call ahead and make an appointment
Many schools allow students to walk-in for tours, presentations, counselor interviews, and so on; however, some universities prefer students to schedule something in advance. It’s best to call a week or two before your visit to find out each school’s visit opportunities.
Prepare questions
Take a quick look at the website for each school before your visit and jot down a few questions. I know our tour guides would much rather have conversations with you regarding Seattle University instead of just spewing facts your way. Similarly, you will show admissions counselors you are engaged and interested in the school if you have even just a few questions ready to ask. And most importantly: you’ll get answers to questions that are most applicable to YOU.
Examples:
- What opportunities will I have to study abroad?
- What do students do on the weekends?
- What is a typical freshmen year like, both academically and socially?
- I am very involved in (insert extracurricular activity here) at my high school. Is there a similar club here?
While on campus:
Explore the neighborhood
It’s going to be your home for the next 4 years…make sure you’re comfortable both on campus and in the surrounding neighborhood.
Visit a class and meet with a faculty member
If possible, try to sit in on a class or chat with a professor. If you’re interested in a specific major, you can find out about opportunities within that academic program. We admissions counselors know a little bit about all the programs on campus, but a faculty member can tell you in detail about what the school has to offer academically.
Talk to a current student
Go to the main dining hall and chat with some students. It can be very informative to get the scoop from someone other than an admission representative.
After the visit:
Write down your thoughts
It can be easy to mix up information from different schools, so after each visit just write down a few notes to keep your thoughts straight. A simple Pro/Con list after each college will help you make decisions down the road.
Find out about future visit opportunities
If a college or university is at the top of your list, find out more about fall open house dates or official visit days. Usually a school will offer a full day of tours, presentations, meetings with faculty, etc. to give students a well-rounded look at the campus. Save the date: Seattle University’s Fall Preview Days will be October 17th and November 14th!
Don't worry if you can't fit in everything on your visit to each school. Our most important tip: just try to get a feel for the college, the mission, the attitude of the students, etc. There is no ONE perfect school for anyone; it's all about finding your niche at a school that fits your needs. Have fun!
Shameless plug: If you're interested in finding out whether or not SU is the right fit for you, call our Student-to-Student Representatives at 206-296-2211 to schedule a tour or counselor appointment!
6/19/2009 12:58:20 PM
Hello from sunny Seattle!
Posted by Mike Dommer on Friday, June 19, 2009
Hello,
Spring and summer are amazing times of the year to be in the Emerald City. Not only are the flowers and trees in bloom, but the sun starts to shine and people are dressed in their summer best. Yes, we Seattleites have been known to sport sandals and shorts when it gets to 50 degrees.
The other wonderful thing about this time of year is the smattering of free activities available in the city. I want to loop you into some of the great things you could be enjoying in Seattle this time of year, as I know I will be taking full advantage of the options.
- Free Movies in the Park – there are a few options here, but all involve picnics, great movies and possibly street vendors. You can find some of them in Fremont, Capitol Hill, South Lake Union, and at the Seattle Center.
- First Thursday Art Walk – While this is available all year round, it is especially fun during the summer when it’s light outside until 11 p.m.
- Shakespeare in the Park – Always a favorite on those amazingly beautiful summer days! (http://www.greenstage.org/)
- Farmer’s Markets – Every spring, the neighborhood farmer’s markets open again and are available for your cruising pleasure. Go support local food!
- Northwest Folklife (May 22-25) – This is the largest folk festival in the country and always has a great mix of food, dance, art and crafts to peruse. Seattle Center always has free events and festivals going on.
One of the benefits of living in a big city is the opportunity to enjoy yourself without spending an armful. I hope you take advantage of some of these options, and make sure to check out The Stranger for more activities as the season progresses.
Take care,
Victor