Why Attending College Presentations Matters More Than You Think
As college admission grows more competitive and nuanced, one of the best ways to stand out and make smart, informed choices is by connecting directly with college representatives. Whether through visits from admissions reps at your high school, college fairs, virtual webinars, or campus visits, these opportunities give you invaluable insights you can’t find on a school’s website.
1. Get information straight from the source. When college reps visit your high school or host webinars, they offer firsthand knowledge about their institution, including academic programs, admission priorities, scholarships, campus life, and unique opportunities. While websites and brochures provide the basics, reps share the why behind the facts. They can explain what makes a program distinctive, what qualities their admissions team looks for, and how students can best position themselves in the application process.
2. Build relationships that matter. Admission representatives are often the very people who will read your application or work closely with those who do. Introducing yourself, asking thoughtful questions, and showing genuine interest helps personalize your connection to the school. When it comes time to apply, a rep who remembers your enthusiasm and curiosity can become an advocate in the admissions process.
3. Clarify fit beyond the rankings. Every college has its own culture, values, and community vibe. Talking with reps at college fairs or in small-group sessions helps you gauge whether that school’s environment aligns with your goals and personality. A university might look perfect on paper but feel different in person. Or you might discover a hidden gem that feels like home.
4. Make the most of virtual access. Even if a college is across the country, webinars make it easy to learn more. Colleges often host online info sessions and student panels where you can interact with current students, faculty, and admission reps. Treat these virtual opportunities as seriously as in-person visits. Take notes, introduce yourself in the chat, and follow up with a thank-you email to the presenter.
5. Don’t miss ICC’s college admissions webinars. At International College Counselors (ICC), we know how valuable it is for students and families to hear directly from the experts. That’s why ICC is hosting a number of exclusive webinars featuring college admission representatives from universities across the country. These sessions are a chance to learn about schools’ programs, admission priorities, and student experiences—straight from the people who know them best.
Sign up for our upcoming webinars to connect with admissions professionals, ask your questions, and make a strong impression. You can find our full list of events on the bottom of this email and on our ICC Upcoming Webinars page.
6. Visit and meet a rep when possible. If you can visit campus, and it’s offered, take the extra step of making an appointment with an admission representative. A one-on-one or small group meeting can make a lasting impression and help you ask school-specific questions about majors, internships, research, or student life.
7. Attend college fairs. College fairs bring dozens (sometimes hundreds!) of colleges to one place, giving you the chance to explore a wide variety of schools in a single afternoon. These events are a fantastic way to compare programs, ask quick but meaningful questions, and collect materials from schools you might not have considered before. Come prepared with a short list of questions, a notebook, a bag for materials, and your curiosity—you never know which conversation might spark a new dream school.
8. Demonstrate interest (and initiative). Many colleges track “demonstrated interest”—a measure of how much contact you’ve had in the process of getting to know them. Attending a college’s presentation, chatting with a rep, or following up after a fair shows initiative and enthusiasm. While not all colleges weigh this factor in admissions decisions, it’s always a good look to show genuine curiosity and commitment.
9. Avoid gifts, gimmicks and constant communication. While it’s great to make yourself known to an admissions rep, sending food or gifts is a big “no-no.” Same goes with constant calls and emails. Be mindful that Admissions professionals are busy people and they won’t react well to students who waste their time or demand constant attention.
10. Ensure the student is the primary contact. Parents often find it easy to step in for emails or communication with schools. This could be a sign of a child who is not independent or college ready. Be sure to let students take the lead on all communication with colleges and admissions reps.
In an era where thousands of students apply to the same schools, meaningful engagement can set you apart. By showing up—whether at your high school’s college visit, a college fair, an on-campus meeting, or an ICC webinar—you’re not just collecting information; you’re building relationships, gaining perspective, and shaping a stronger, more authentic application.
