10 Smart Questions to Ask a College Admissions Officer

Talking with a college admissions officer is not only to get information but to make a positive impression as well. Part of the way to accomplish the latter is by asking a few smart questions. A smart question is one that isn't answered on the college's website or one that has a duh! answer (e.g., is your history department good?). Here are ten:

1. What opportunities are available for chemistry (or whatever) majors?

2. What differentiates your program from others?

1. What is the largest class size? The smallest?

2. How easy or difficult is it for freshmen to get classes?

3. What do students do for fun?

4. Are there any research opportunities for undergraduates?

5. What is the campus like on the weekends?

6. Will I have an academic advisor? Even if I'm undeclared?

7. How hard is it to double major?

8. How would you characterize the academic pressure and workload?

While we're talkin' questions, we thought you might want to keep a few in your back pocket to ask of college students you will meet if you tour any campuses:

1. What do you like best about the school?

2. What do you wish were different?

3. How would you describe the students here?

4. What's the workload like?

5. Do you have much interaction with your professors?

6. What's the social scene like?

7. What do you do for fun?

8. What is the campus like on weekends?

9. How would you describe the dorms?

10. How's the food?