If you’re currently thinking about applying to a college or university, there are a number of opportunities to connect with recruiters from various post-secondary institutions from around the world. These include fairs, embassy events, school visits, portfolio days, campus visits, along with the possibility of scheduled one-on-one meetings in your respective cities. Event participation allows students to gain valuable insight into all aspects of these institutions, while forging a personal connection that can serve as your go-to person should any questions arise during this crucial research and decision-making process. In order to cover your bases, please find these 8 questions to initiate with post-secondary recruitment staff.
“What are your academic requirements and are there other variables involved like essays, letters of recommendation, and portfolio submissions?”
These requirements will vary per country, per institution, and sometimes per program, so you will want to get all of the specifics and take notes so that you have a checklist for later.
“What are the ideal qualities that you look for in a prospective student?”
While good grades are crucial, many institutions are looking for a well-rounded student who is active in their community, has taken the extra initiative to seek knowledge and wisdom through volunteer work and travel, and who possess excellent communication skills.
“Do you offer summer programs?”
If you want to get a feel for a school and also see what it’s like to live in a city before you commit to the entire length of a degree or diploma, a good way to do this is through summer programs. These are offered over the summer months, and provide you with the opportunity to build your knowledge base and/or your portfolio of art, design and media work with practicing professionals.
“Do you offer internships and co-op credits?”
It’s a competitive world out there, and while it’s important to excel in your courses, relative work experience will make all of the difference upon graduation. Internships offer paid and unpaid placements to help students gain valuable industry experience, while co-op credits offer class credit for professional experience. You will want to do as many of these as possible, so make sure to ask what types of opportunities are available, and if there is a career and co-op office that will help you to find these placements.