The Life of an Admission Counselor...

Valpo Graduation 2010

2010-05-17T07:06:00.001-07:00

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/article_e4ebc34f-03ba-567a-9dd0-d7483a1c4504.html

A letter to my senior Valpo Ambassadors in Admission

2010-05-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

My dearest senior AIAs,

Working with you all the last two years has been amazing. I've learned a lot from every one of you. I thank you for all of your hard work, dedication to your job, passion for your alma mater, and your outstanding leadership. I appreciate everything you've done for the Office of Admission, Valpo, and me personally. I am sad to see you all graduate and move on from Valpo, but I'm excited to watch you take the next step in your lives....grad school, jobs, marriage, traveling, and your continuous love for service.

Kate: you will do great in Chicago! I'm thrilled for you to begin the next chapter of your life. Welcome to the adult world. You have been a solid phoner and silent leader within the AIA program. I can't thank you enough for your continued and solid drive for this program.

Josh: I can't believe you're getting married! Ahh! Good luck and remember to always kiss your wife goodnight. Good luck choosing a job. I know you will do great with whatever path you select. I'll miss reading your visit day shout outs from students and families.

Vickie: I'm going to cry! You have been my right hand person all year. I will miss our office chats and Friday afternoons. You have been an amazing Tour Manager and have definitely set the bar high for Susan (I know she will do great!). Your drive and dedication to your job is contagious. Thank you for being such an awesome leader and friend. The medical world is going to be so lucky to have you as a nurse.

Kylie: Your smile, warmth and welcoming personality will be greatly missed. Your love for people is evident in all you do. I know you will make a wonderful nurse...I would trust with a needle and my arm. :) Thank you for being such a go-getter AIA and willingness to lend a helping hand. Good luck with your wedding plans!

Anne: Gosh! I'm going to miss your fabulous tours! You have always been an outstanding leader within this program. Thank you for always going above and beyond, and stepping up to the plate to help with anything....taking a nursing major all the way to Lebein on your tour, leading the virtual tour on visit days, and training your fellow AIAs. The nursing world is going to love you.

Collin: You've been a rockstar AIA this year! I'm sad we only had you on staff for one year. Thank you for stepping up and helping with so many extra group tours this year. I will miss your laugh, random texts, and our office chats. You will do great wherever life takes you. Good luck and enjoy the journey!

John: Your personality is so funny. I'm going to miss your humor at Student Leadership meetings. It has been great working with you over the last 2 years. You are a wonderful leader and have offered some good ideas to improve the program. Good luck in your future endeavors.

Brett: You have been a tremendous help with tours this year! Prospective students/families really enjoy your personality and tours. Thank you for always being willing to help with whatever I throw your way. I wish you the best in whatever path you decide to take - work, grad school or seminary.

Rachel: You have been an amazing person in my life this year. Thank you for everything you've done. I will miss our little chats about life. You will make a fantastic lawyer. I am so proud of you. Good luck and happy wedding planning!

Amanda: Awe...my Starbucks buddy. I've had a lot of fun working with you this year. You are an excellent speaker - genuine and outgoing. Families adore you and your willingness to talk with them for long periods of time at Visit Days. I know you will do great wherever life takes you. Stay positive and confident in yourself.

Gavin: Oh my gosh, I think I might cry. You have been such an awesome leader for this program over the years. You are confident, intelligent, and offer great suggestions to help improve the AIA program. Your fellow AIAs really look up to you. You've been such an important asset to this team. Thank you so much for everything you've done for me, the AIA program, the Office of Admission, and Valpo. You will absolutely rock in grad school! Enjoy your summer travels and Colorado next year.

Kati: I am so proud of you! You will do extremely well in grad school. I've been so lucky to have you on the student leadership team this year. Thank you for your continuous AIA/school spirit to keep everyone motivated, especially during phoning. Your fellow AIAs speak very highly of you and we'll all miss you. Good luck in Delaware.

Red: It's not goodbye yet, but I will say this...you are an outstanding AIA and person. You've helped out so much over the years...for me, the AIA program, the office of Admission and Valpo. You are so great with people...they just love you. Your kindness, personality, and love for Valpo are contagious. Thank you for everything. Your hard work will pay off, my friend. God has big plans for you, I know it.

Alex: My silent AIA leader. You have done such great work with the AIA program this year...stats, incentives, tour guide finder program, and organization. You've kept me on my toes. Thank you for your continued dedication and passion for the AIA program. I know your tours this summer at Carlsbad National Park will be amazing - you'll be a pro. Good luck in Colorado next year!

Andrew: I highly respect you and I am extremely proud of you for dedicating yourself to serve this country. I know you will be successful in the Air Force. You are driven, passionate and responsible. You have done wonders for this office and University. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. I wish you the best of luck in the Air Force.

As I end today's blog post (in tears), I wish you all well and I hope you remain in contact with all of us here at Valpo. We will miss each and every one of you. It has been a pleasure being your boss the last 2 years. I am confident you all will go on to do great things in this world...you are Valpo grads.

FOCUS

2010-05-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.valpo.edu/focus/index.php

2010 FOCUS DATES:

* FOCUS I - June 11-12
* FOCUS II - June 14-15
* FOCUS III - June 18-19
* FOCUS IV - June 21-22

Register by May 14!

Jason Derulo at Valpo

2010-05-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Jason Derulo performed on Valpo's campus Friday, April 30 in the Harre Union Ballroom.

Kevin Brown, and group ADD-2 opened for Derulo.

http://www.valpo.edu/news/news.php?releaseId=4432

Good times with AIAs

2010-04-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

A few pictures of me and my AIAs (Ambassadors in Admission). You may have had one of them as your campus tour guide, met at a visit day, or chatted on the phone when he/she called you to say congrats on your admission to Valpo. These are some of my favorite people in my life...

Culvers ice cream break @training

Fall 2009 Tour Training

Fall 2009 AIA Training

Fall 2009 meeting..."Uh, Ummm, Like, You Guys" Competition

Fall 2009 phoning night team

Striking a pose - having fun at a visit day.

February 6, 2010 Scholarship Day: AIA Student Leadership Team

Resting between sessions at the April 17 visit day.

A few of us went to support fellow, AIA, Katie, at her tennis match vs. Butler.

Jason Derulo is coming to Valpo!

2010-03-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

Jason Derulo....April 30th at 9:30pm in the Harre Union Ballroom!

$3-students $10-general public

Purchase tickets at the Harre Union Welcome Desk or at

www.valpo.edu/union

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyG1FG3H6rY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBI3lc18k8Q&feature=channel

Admission Counselors have fun too!

2010-03-01T12:07:00.001-08:00

Megan, Laura and me at VU men's basketball game vs Butler. 2.26.10

Me and the Crusader (Ryan) - summer 2008

Me and Seth at FOCUS - June 2008

Jennifer and me at FOCUS (new student orientation) - June 2009

Me, Megan and Laura - Valpo Visit Day 2/2010

Me...at a student ambassador conference in Pittsburgh - summer 2008

Michael, me and Ryan at Valpo Scholarship Day 2.06.10

Megan and me at VU men's basketball game vs Butler 2.26.10

Valpo/Butler men's basketball game on ESPNU!

2010-02-26T12:28:00.001-08:00

Rivals, Valpo and Butler will hit the basketball court tonight on VU's campus at 8:00pm.

The men's team will get fired up at Valpo's pep rally tonight in the Harre Union @6:00pm.

Valpo Closes Regular Season at ARC Friday with #15/10 Butler - Valparaiso University Official Athletic Site

VU Teen Law College

2010-02-25T07:00:00.001-08:00

School of Law to host Teen Law College

Posted using ShareThis

Dinner to celebrate international connections

2010-02-17T09:35:00.001-08:00

Dinner to celebrate international connections

Posted using ShareThis

College Goal Sunday, Feb 21

2010-02-16T08:14:00.000-08:00

Valparaiso University will be hosting a College Goal Sunday, Feb 21.

Valpo is one of 37 sites statewide hosting College Goal Sunday events and the only Porter County location. A complete list of sites is available online at
www.CollegeGoalSunday.org.

Students attending College Goal Sunday qualify for a chance to win a scholarship prize to help with their higher education expenses. At each of the state College Goal Sunday sites, a $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to one participant.

For more information about Valpo's College Goal Sunday event, contact the Office of Financial Aid at (219) 464-5015.

http://www.valpo.edu/news/news.php?releaseId=4323

VU Women's Basketball Game Goes PINK

2010-02-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

WBGA Pink Zone & Pack the House Challenge is this Saturday, Feb 13.

The VU women's basketball game vs Youngstown State @1:35pm CST will be supporting breast cancer awareness.

Fans are encouraged to wear pink in support of this cause.

Come out & support both VU women's basketball and breast cancer awareness!

I'm excited to sport my PINK this Saturday.

http://www.valpoathletics.com/

Valpo makes it on a Superbowl commercial

2010-02-09T13:33:00.000-08:00

Watch this commercial that aired during the Superbowl and pay close attention to the short clip at 47 seconds, immediately after Spongebob. Valpo basketball!!! GO CRUSADERS!

Michigan Lunch Reception March 13, 2010

2010-02-05T09:19:00.000-08:00

We’re bringing Valpo to Michigan!

You have been chosen to join members of the Valparaiso University community to share in the excitement of a pizza lunch reception for Admitted Students in Michigan. Featured at this event are alumni, current students and me, your Admission Counselor!

Please join us:

Saturday, March 13^th, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Uccello’s

8256 Broadmoor S.E.

Caledonia, MI 49316

If you and your parents can join us, please RSVP by March 5^th to Nicole Morris at 888.GO.VALPO or Nicole.Morris@valpo.edu .

Seating is limited for this event.

I hope to see you there!

FAFSA! FAFSA! FAFSA! Get your money for college!

2010-02-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year.

Time to file the FAFSA.

What's the FAFSA?

It's the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

What does that mean exactly?

It's the application you file to see if you and your family are eligible for money from the government - loans, grants, etc.

I know you're probably thinking, "Another application to fill out?!"

Trust me...you want to take the time to fill out this application.

If money is a determining factor for you and your family as far as where you go to college, the FAFSA can really help lower the cost for your dream school.

You are not locked into anything if you choose to file the FAFSA.

I highly recommend at least checking out the website with your parents/guardians to learn more about it before you pass up the opportunity.

File the FAFSA for Valpo by March 1st!

www.fafsa.ed.gov

VU men's basketball game vs. Detroit

2010-02-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

The VU men's basketball team is playing Detroit this Saturday, Feb 6 @1:00pm (central time) at home.

Students will be competing to win the best student section in the Horizon League.

Come out and support VU by wearing your brown & gold!

http://www.valpoathletics.com/

Valpo Promotes Health & Wellness

2010-02-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

VU opened a new facility this fall 2009 for students, staff and faculty...the new Fitness Center!

http://www.valpo.edu/fitnesscenter/

Check out the awesome classes now available!

- Zumba
- Yogalates
- Core
- BOSU
- Cardio Kickboxing
- Cycling
- Cycling/strength mix
- Sport drills

Valpo's College Fair

2010-02-01T09:14:00.000-08:00

Come one! Come all!

Valparaiso University is hosting a spring college fair!

When: Wednesday, March 10, 2010
6:30-8:00PM (central time)

Where: Valparaiso University's campus
Valparaiso, IN 46383
888.GO.VALPO

www.valpo.edu

*More information coming soon. Stay tuned!

Happy new year!

2010-01-05T09:20:00.000-08:00

It is crazy for me to think that 10 years ago, I was a senior in high school...thinking the world was going to end with Y2K, planning for the start of college in the fall, and trying to savor every last bit of high school before all of the open houses and the goodbyes I knew were coming in the summer.

I know for some high school seniors, this last semester is bittersweet.

With a new year, brings a new semester, big decisions, and the next chapter of your life: college.

Your life is about to change...it is scary, exciting, nerve racking, and all kinds of emotions rolled into one.

My advice is to enjoy these next 7 months with friends and family.

I am here to answer questions and help you along the rest of the way.

Here are the next steps:

1. Complete your application(s), if you haven't done so already.
2. File the FAFSA by March 1st.
3. Visit your top 2-3 colleges - do an overnight, sit in on a class, hang out with students, try the food (very important, right?), and experience the college for yourself.
4. May 1st = the national reply date. Let the colleges you were admitted to know where you've decided to attend in the fall - this will make everyone's lives easier.
5. Submit your tuition/room & board deposit to your final school choice.

New year, new you.

Traveling in hoosier territory this week...

2009-10-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

I will be traveling all in week in northern Indiana - from South Bend to Warsaw and everything in between. I have 2 college fairs Tuesday and Wednesday and a dozen high schools to visit. This is my last week of overnight travel. Fall travel season is exhausting and I am grateful to have a new travel territory this year that allows for less time on the road overnight. I am looking forward to being in the office to meet students and families who are visiting campus and reviewing all the applications coming in every day.

Seniors in my territory, you should begin hearing from me congratulating you on your admission to Valpo soon. Stay tuned and start planning your campus visit to Valpo! As I always say, the campus visit is key to making that final college decision, especially an overnight visit. Experience Valpo for yourself - see if it's the right fit for you.

Valpo's first fall 2009 visit day

2009-09-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Sept 19, was Valpo's first fall visit day for 2009-2010 academic year. We had a great turnout and wonderful families and perfect weather. We are already preparing for our next visit day, Oct 12. There's always ways to improve and make the next visit day even better. We appreciate all the positive feedback and suggestions from the families that visited last Saturday. Our Oct 12 visit day looks like it will be a full house with several registrations already. I look forward to meeting more of my students and their families. I will post a few pictures from our visit day when I return to the office this Friday.

Fall travels with my new best friend, Garmin....

2009-09-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday officially started my fall travel for the year. I am currently in western Michigan visiting high schools and attending college fairs. I have 14 high school visits and 3 college fairs stretching from Jenison to Midland and everything in between. Thank goodness for a GPS! I don't know how I did travel before without one. I know...I relied on good old Mapquest and Google maps. It's kind of difficult to drive, especially in the dark, trying to read paper directions. Luckily, one of my student ambassadors at Valpo (thanks Susan!) let me borrow and try out her Garmin. She knew I was terrified to use one, because of everything I've seen in movies - things going wrong with it. Ha ha! I officially feel tech savvy enough to use one without freaking out that it's going to lead me to the middle of the woods or something. I know it's only Tuesday, but (knock on wood), the Garmin and I are getting along great....so far so good.

The rest of this week's travel includes....

3 college fairs @ CMU, Big Rapids, and Northwood University and 7 high school visits. I can't believe it's only Tuesday! I will have a full report of this week's travels Friday. Stay tuned!

Why go to college?

2009-09-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

For those of you who wonder, "why should I go to college?", think about why you're asking that question. Is it cost? job placement? Distance? Family?

Many students and parents are wondering how they will afford college...should they attend a 2 year or a 4 year college...how about just get a job after high school graduation? With the stress of today's economy in the U.S., families are thinking twice about college. As a college admission counselor, this worries me. I not only work for a university in admission, but I also work for every family and student out there looking for college guidance.

Education is my passion and helping students through the college process is what I enjoy doing. When I was in high school, I didn't have much guidance. My single mother and I slowly muddled through the admission and financial aid process on our own. At a big high school with few guidance counselors, students can often times feel lost and unsure about college. This is where I come in. I help students find their way...why they should go to college....why Valpo.

Things I always tell my students to think about when going through the college admission process...think about your "fit" and where you feel most comfortable (not simply settling, but where you feel you will succeed). Colleges and universities are very competitive with one another as far as statistics - placement rates, graduation rates, and retention. If you're looking at all small private schools, they will more than likely be very similar/competitive in ratings - it's the other little things that make them different. Check out a class, meet with a professor, hang out with the students, stay overnight in one of the residence halls, and try the food. These are very important things students sometimes forget to take into consideration when selecting a college. US News & World Report and other magazine/book rankings and statistics can only play a role to an extent. While they certainly are important, I believe students will find their "fit' when taking the whole picture into consideration. I always ask, "do you want to be a statistic or a student in college?"

Aside from the financial worries for families, a college education takes time. Many students think four years is forever. It's not. Four years will fly by and before you know it you will be graduating college, wondering where the time went. Many students are simply anxious to become an adult, have a job and their own place, that they rule out the option of college. I cannot tell you how many people I know from high school who are now going to college part time, working full time and supporting a family. It's very likely that it will take them even longer to finish their degree than it would have had they gone to college full time after high school. Because of the length of time it takes, some students will drop out.

With the concerns of time and money, several students are opting for a community college education. They believe this option will save them time and money lost in a four year college. You can't rush order a quality college education. While a community college can be a stepping stone to a bachelors degree, it's also one you have to choose carefully. My advice to students taking this route...be sure to take courses that will transfer to the college you plan to transfer to and be in constant communication with the Registrars Office at both institutions for a smooth and successful transition. This route may not shave off much time, but it could possibly save you money if you do your research.

Whether it is time, money or graduation rates causing you to rethink the college route, think about your future. While it would be nice and easy to be making money now, rather than in 4 years, think about what you truly want out of your life. A job or a career? College takes time and hard work, but in the end it will be worth it. Without college, it could cause you to have to work harder for longer. The best advice I can give students is to choose a college you can see yourself graduating from - not just one with the best rankings or where all your friends are going or the one that seems the "easiest". A successful college career will lead to graduation and graduation from college will lead to better and more career opportunities. I believe life is a gamble without a college education.

College is a big decision. It is best to choose a college where you fit best and will be successful. While four years seems forever away, think about where you want to be and what you want to achieve in that time. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but in the mean time, take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.

Back to school!

2009-09-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Another school year brings another fall travel season for college admission counselors/reps. I will be hitting the road for my fall travel to high schools and college fairs September 21. Below is my fall travel schedule. Stop by my table at a college fair or visit me when I'm at your high school.

Sept 21, 2009:
Forest Hills Eastern H.S.
Forest Hills Central H.S.
East Grand Rapids H.S.
Forest Hills Northern H.S.

Sept 22, 2009:
Calvin Christian H.S.
Grand Rapids Christian H.S.
Northpointe Christian H.S.
Northview H.S. (drop off)

*College Night at Central Michigan University

Sept 23, 2009:
South Christian H.S.
Grandville H.S.
Jenison H.S. (drop off)

Sept 24, 2009:
Cedar Springs H.S. (drop off)
Rockford H.S.
Sparta H.S.

*College Night at Northwood University

Sept 29, 2009:
*College Night at Goshen high school

Sept 30, 2009:
MI Lutheran H.S.
St. Joseph H.S. (MI)

*Grand Rapids Area College Night

Oct 1, 2009:
Kalamazoo Christian H.S.
Holland Christian H.S.

*Holland Area College fair

Oct 6, 2009:
St. Joseph H.S. (IN)
Elkhart Memorial H.S.
Clay H.S.

*St. Joseph county college fair

Oct 7, 2009:
Elkhart Central H.S. (drop off)
Trinity School at Greenlawn
Penn H.S.

*Warsaw College Fair

Oct 8, 2009:
Marian H.S.
North Judson H.S.
Culver Academies

*Plymouth College Fair

Oct 12, 2009:
Kalamazoo Valley Community College Transfer Fair

Oct 13, 2009:
Mishawaka H.S.

Nov 2, 2009:
Kellogg Community College Transfer Fair & College Night

I'm looking forward to meeting many high school students and families and reading your applications.

Staying up-to-date with today's technology...

2009-07-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

Text messages, emails, IMs, blogs, Zinch, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, and more!

Wow! There are a lot of new social networks and technology out there. Every time I think I've caught onto the newest one, another one pops up. I remember when I was in high school...email was the newest form of communication, then AIM (AOL Instant Messager), and cell phones. Now there's Facebook, Myspace, blogs, and Twitter...not to mention all of the texting, rather than actual phone calls that occur. I can't imagine what's next.

Colleges & Universities: staying "with it"...

As technology changes, so does the interests of students around the world. Colleges and Universities have created University Facebook pages, blogs, and now even Twitter accounts just to keep up with today's youth. Students aren't simply learning about colleges by reading paper brochures or college fairs anymore...now they can read about them in mass texts, "Tweets", websites and blogs.

Are phone calls the thing of the past?

There are plenty of debates about calling students these days in college admission. To call or not to call? To text or not to text? Of the several hundreds of calls I make every year, I would say about 50% of the time I actually talk to a student. I tend to leave a lot of messages - who knows if the student ever actually receives them.

Sifting through emails...

I know many students now receive their emails on their cell phone. I am curious as to how many students actually read all of the college emails they get - if any at all. From college emails, to silly forwards, email subscriptions, and junk...who has time to sift through all of that?

Staying connected without actually speaking...

Today's pace is much faster than in years past. Everyone's on the go, living miles and miles away from each other and wants to be able to connect with friends and family with the click of a button. I can't help but wonder how this will effect college admission process. Will students refrain from actually visiting college campus' - relying only on virtual tours, blogs and Twitter to make their college decision? I sure hope not. To truly experience college, a person has to be there to experience it for themselves. No typed conversation online is going to give you the real experience.

Face-to-Face contact is still the best...

As all of you high school juniors and seniors begin your college search, I encourage you to yes read those blogs, the "tweets" and websites for updates and information, but I also highly recommend that you visit the colleges you're interested in. I truly believe in overnight visits. They allow you to experience that college as if you were a real _____ University student - not just a visiting high school senior with mom and dad tagging along on your campus tour asking a hundred questions.

Here's how you can keep up with me...

Facebook: Nicole at Valpo
Blog: valponicole.blogspot.com
AIM: ValpoNicole
Email: Nicole.Morris@valpo.edu
Phone: 888.GO.VALPO

Send me a message, email or call if you have any questions, but I hope to see many of you on campus for a visit as well.

As always, best of luck to all of you with your college search!

Questions to ask colleges & universities...

2009-07-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

I was a first generation college student in my family, so my parents didn't quite know what questions to ask when I was going through the college admission process. Many parents I've met with say that the college admission process is entirely different than what they experienced, so they don't even know where to begin. As a college Admission Counselor, I don't just inform students about Valparaiso University, I also try to help my families through the puzzling process that is college admission - filled with numerous deadlines, statistics and lingo all to comprehend and remember. To assist with this confusing and sometimes exhausting process, I've come up with a list of key questions for high school students and parents to ask while visiting or meeting with colleges and universities. Don't be afraid or embarassed to show up to a college/university with a legal pad of questions or spreadsheets to analyze your college research - this is a big step and a very important decision for your future.

1. What's unique about your school?
2. What is the academic profile of first-year students? (ACT, SAT and GPA)
3. What materials do you require for admission?
4. When is your application deadline? Is there an early action or early decision admission deadline?
5. How many applications do you get a year? How many are admitted?
6. What is the average incoming freshman class size?
7. Where do most of your students come from?
8. Why do students typically choose to attend your school?
9. What is the freshman to sophomore retention rate?
10. What is the placement rate within 6 months of graduation?
11. What are the most popular majors offered at your school? Why?
12. What is the average class size?
13. What is the student to faculty ratio?
14. What is the 4 year graduation rate?
15. What is the percentage of TAs (teaching assistants)?
16. What is the percentage of professors who have their highest terminal degree in their field?
17. What is the student to computer ratio on campus?
18. What is the percentage of students who get internships or co-op opportunities?
19. Do you require families to file the FAFSA?
20. What is the percentage of students who receive financial aid (scholarships, grants, loans)?
21. What is the average financial aid package for students?
22. What do students do for fun on the weekends?

My 3 Tips: How to stand out in the college application process

2009-05-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thousands of applications pass through the doors of college admissions every year. High School seniors all compete not only for admission, but also for the opportunity to stand out for top scholarships. The problem that I've come across in my three years working in admission is that many seniors don't know where to start or what to do. So, I've decided to share my three application tips. These are tips that will help you stand out for both admission and scholarship opportunities. In my job, my goal is to help guide students and families through the college admission process, and let's face it, scholarships are a very essential part of any student's final college decision. Here are my tips...

1. Think letters of recommendation. 1-3 are pretty standard - any more than this can be overwhelming and unnecessary (unless a school requires more). These can be from teachers, mentors, coaches, pastors, employers, etc. Think about your major and the school you are applying to - this will help you decide who the right people are to ask.

2. Focus on your admission essay/personal statement. This is your time to shine in your application. Tell the college/university who you are, why you want to go to college, why you want to pursue a certain major, etc. Your essay allows you to stand out beyond the fill-in-the-blanks of your application.

3. A resume/list of your accomplishments/extracurricular activities. This is your time to BRAG about yourself. Share everything that you've done - from camp counselor jobs, volunteer work, athletics, clubs, church work, etc. Explain your role or activity, how long you've been involved in each activity and if you've held any leadership roles. Steer clear of using acronyms for various clubs/organizations you've been involved in, because chances are, the person reading your application may not know what BPA stands for (for example).

*My bonus application tip: apply to schools EARLY. (Apply to Valpo by Nov 1st!). Often times schools will have early application dates that allow admitted students to be considered for top scholarships, such as full tuition scholarships. Be sure to ask the schools you are considering if they have an early action application deadline or early decision application deadline. Also note that if you apply to a school with an early decision deadline, it is most likely that you will be committing to that school if you are admitted. *See my article in Next Step Magazine for more information about this. http://www.nextstepmagazine.com/nextstep/articlePage1.aspx?artId=3236&categoryId=54

*Please note that my tips do not guarantee admission or scholarships, but I believe you will find them helpful in your college admission search/process.

Moving forward with your college decision...

2009-05-02T08:07:00.000-07:00

It's after May 1st. Have you made your final college decision yet? I know the pressure's on and it's a very big, important decision to make, but bare with the colleges that continue to contact you about this.

Over the course of this academic year, high school seniors have considered, applied to and visited many colleges/universities. During the college admission process students invested a lot of interest, energy and thought in their college selection; while colleges have also invested a lot of interest in each student (some maybe more than others).

Everyone is aware that May 1st brings both cancels and deposits. While every Admission Counselor enjoys hearing that Susie, a student that they've worked with since she was a Junior, has made her final decision to attend their university, it's also hard to "lose" those students. To some of you, that admissions person on the other end of the phone or signature at the end of letters is just some stranger in the pile of college brochures and paperwork spread out on your family's kitchen table, but please know that a sincere interest has been taken in you.

I always advise my students to keep me posted on their college plans - whether it's to attend Valpo or not. It's important and courteous for students to inform all of the colleges they've applied to, to inform them of their final college decision. Many schools will ask the difficult and sometimes awkward question of WHY you've chosen to attend _______ University. Please know that we are not asking that question to make you feel uncomfortable or to try to change your mind...we are simply asking that to make improvements for future students and for our university.

My advice to you as you make this big decision...inform all colleges you've considered of your college plans, tell them WHY you've chosen _________ University and thank them for all their help. This will allow everyone to move forward.

I wish all seniors the best of luck!

May 1st....right around the corner!

2009-04-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

As many of you already know, May 1st is the National College Reply date. It's time to buckle down, make any final campus visits, and ask any remaining questions before making that final college decision. It's a BIG decision, so take your time and choose wisely. I would advise you to steer clear of selecting schools for only the following reasons:

1. Your BFF is going to _____ school.
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend is going to _____ school.
3. The school's name/reputation will sell itself after graduation (this may NOT always happen - ask about graduation placement rates...your parents will be glad to know that you will be able to successfully get a job or get into graduate school after your 4 years of college).
4. The school's facilities are all brand new (OK....but what about the people? the classes? the location? the academics?).
5. You can play _____ sport there (don't forget that college is also about getting an education).

Not that the reasons listed above are not legit reasons to attend a school, but it's best to choose a school based on more than one of these reasons. Many students make the mistake of selecting a school without thinking about the bigger picture...without thinking beyond next week, next fall or next year. As an Admission Counselor, I cannot tell you which school will be the right fit for you. This is a decision each student has to make themselves. My advice...consider the qualities you're looking for in a college/university. If you could create the perfect/ideal college for YOU, what would it be like? Are you looking for a certain size? location? major(s)? type - public or private? Extracurricular activities? Athletics? faith-based? comfortable atmosphere? good feeling?

There's a lot to think about these last few days before May 1st. I wish you all the best and good luck!

Decisions, decisions...

2009-04-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

To my high school seniors,

One month until the national college reply date! I wish you all the best as you make that very tough or very easy final college decision. I hope you enjoy the adventures ahead of you as you set out on your college journey. The next 4 years of your life will be some of your most memorable. If you thought high school was a blast - college will be 10x that. The transition may seem difficult at first, but I promise you will get through it successfully. Take advantage of all there is to do in college - sports, clubs, organizations, campus jobs, research with professors, study abroad, internships, the friends/people you meet, greek life, volunteer/community service, and a wonderful education that will be the foundation for your future. Four years will fly by, so don't wish away those "bad" days that you may have from time to time. Once it's over, you will wish you were still sleeping in that twin bed in that tiny dorm room with your college roommate...staying up late to cram for a big exam the next day. Enjoy every moment of this experience.

My advice to you as you make this very big decision in your life...choose a college/university that you can call "home". As I always say, it's about fit and feeling.

Embrace this next chapter in your life. It may seem a little scary and challenging at first, but in the end, you will have had the time of your life and realize it was all worth it.

Good luck seniors!

*For those of you who have already decided to call Valpo "home", check out the Facebook group: Valparaiso University - Class of 2013.

A campus visit can tell you much more than a brochure...

2009-03-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

Visiting a college campus is very important. A visit can tell you a lot about the people, the location and the overall environment. Whether you are a high school sophomore, junior or senior, a campus visit will play a big role in your college selection. Yes, while the beautiful pictures on the websites and shiny brochures are attractive, they don't tell you everything you need to know about a college or university. Flashy statistics, high rankings, famous alumni, and the other information in resources such as US News & World Report can be impressive, but other parts such as the location, the classes, the professors, the students are really what make the community at each college/university. Don't go by word of mouth, reputation or the name of the school alone.

Sophomores: It's never too early to start visiting campus. If you are unsure of what you'd like to major in or where you even want to go to school, a campus visit can help you discover what types of schools you like and don't like and the qualities you are looking for in a college.

Juniors: This is a great year to visit campuses. This will help you figure out which schools you really want to apply to your senior year and not feel overwhelmed by your senior schedule and the whole application process.

Seniors: If you haven't already visited the schools you've been admitted to, you will want to do so soon. May 1st is just around the corner and you will want to make an educated decision you are comfortable with. If you've already visited, but maybe you're between 2-3 schools still, sometimes a second or third campus visit will help make that final decision. Often times seniors will come back to campus for a second or third visit to stay overnight. This allows you to experience what it's like to be a real Valpo student or X, Y or Z University student. Attend a class, speak with a professor or meet with a coach - get all your questions answered and experience that college/university beyond an open house visit day, college fair meeting, and the many fancy brochures out there.

So, step away from the computer and get your nose out of all those college brochures/magazines and step foot onto campus - explore the many college opportunities out there.

Valpo Receptions in your home town...

2009-03-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

What is a Valparaiso University Area Reception?

Every year Valpo typically hosts two types of area receptions: 1 in late summer/early fall for prospective high school seniors and 1 in the spring for the admitted h.s. seniors. The receptions typically consist of food, mingling and sometimes brief information presentations.

What is the purpose of these receptions?

The purpose is to bring a little bit of Valpo to high school students and give them a more personal introduction to Valpo with the help of current Valpo students, alumni, and deans/faculty. This type of visit goes beyond the college fair and high school visit where a "grab-and-go" method is practiced and minimal questions are asked and answered due to limited time and availability. A reception brings all the people, experiences and words seen in our brochures and on our website to life for high school students and their parents. Words and pictures only give you so much information - the people and the experiences are what make it real.

My Indianapolis reception...

I have hosted several receptions for high school students in the Indianapolis area and they have become more popular and highly attended every year. This spring (March 1) I decided to try a new location: Kincaid's in Carmel, IN - just north of Indianapolis. The reception consisted of lunch, mingling with a few current Valpo students and Valpo alumni, and a chance to ask questions about student life at Valpo, the FAFSA, visiting campus, FOCUS (frosh orientation), etc. I had 18 admitted students and their parents attend and everyone seemed to really enjoy it. The location, the restaurant, the service, and reception itself all went extremely well. I hope we can start a tradition of Valpo receptions at Kincaid's.

My Michigan reception...

Michigan was a new territory for me last year. I hosted my most successful admitted student reception thus far in Grand Rapids, MI last spring. The bar was set pretty high last year when all 5 admitted students who attended the lunch decided to deposit and enroll at Valpo. My next admitted student luncheon reception is Saturday, March 14, 2009 in Grand Rapids, MI at Macaroni Grill.

My favorite...

Area receptions are my favorite! I enjoy watching families (essentially strangers) connect with each other and seeing their eyes light up when listening to an alum's story about why they chose Valpo. Overall they are simply fun and informative.

FAFSA....What's that?

2009-02-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

High School seniors...as you go through your college "to do" list, please remember to file the FAFSA by March 1st for Valpo.

What's the FAFSA? It's the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You may file through paper or online (most people file online). www.fafsa.ed.gov. It allows students to possibly receive grant and/or loan money from the government based on your family's finances (including tax information). Grants = money you don't have to pay back and government loans = low interest rates. Payment for government loans typically doesn't begin until after college graduation.

Why file the FAFSA? Why not? It could lead to free money from the government, either in the form of grants and/or loans. Every little bit of financial assistance helps to pay for college.

Do I have to accept all the loans I am eligible for through the FAFSA? No. You can decline any and all loans you wish to not accept.

While the cost of college and loans may be "scary" to think about, just remember this...college is an investment...an investment in your future. This sometimes means you need to take out a little extra money to get you where you want to be in life. I compare it to buying a car. When you are buying a car you want a nice reliable one, but often times that means the car is going to cost more than you anticipated. Now you can settle for a less expensive car that might not get you as far in life, but it fits your budget at the time or you can make the investment and spend a little more to get the car you really want. Either way, don't let the cost of college or loans scare you away from your dreams.

The moral of my blog today....file the FAFSA and increase your financial aid package for college...every little bit helps to fund your college education and your future. www.fafsa.ed.gov.

You can check Valpo's website for more FAFSA information and how to apply:
http://www.valpo.edu/financialaid/applying/incomingstudents.php

If you or your parents have questions about Financial Aid, please see our FAQ page:
http://www.valpo.edu/financialaid/faq/index.php#loans

Apply to Valpo - it's not too late...

2008-12-17T07:33:00.000-08:00

Are you still interested in submitting an application to Valpo? Valpo is on a rolling admission basis, so we are still accepting applications for Fall 2009. If you are interested in scholarship money (who isn't?), you may want to consider applying by Jan 15, which is our scholarship preference date. What does this mean? It means that there are some Valpo scholarships that require students to apply by Jan 15 in order to be considered for the scholarship. Some of these scholarships are:

- Allen scholarship (students preparing for professional rostered church vocations)
- Art (Art majors)
- Chinese-Japanese Studies (Chinese-Japanese Studies majors)
- Starr Scholarship (Chinese-Japanese Studies majors)
- The Hesse Engineering Scholarship (Engineering majors)
- Foreign Language (Major of German, French, Spanish, or Classics)
- Music Leadership Scholarship (Music majors/minors)
- Music Merit Scholarship (Music majors/minors)
- Physics (Physics majors)
- Theatre (Theatre majors)

You can now apply to Valparaiso University using our new WEB PORTAL! To apply, go to http://www.valpo.edu/admissions/apply. The exciting component to the portal is that once you have applied through the web portal, you may check on your application and what we have received (transcript, test scores, counselor evaluation, essay). Please allow us a few days before checking on your status, because we need to upload your information before it will appear on the portal.

With no homework, projects or studying to do, holiday break is a great time to sit down and complete your college applications. If you have questions about any of the scholarships listed above or would like to learn more, please feel free to contact me.

I look forward to reading your application!

Merry Christmas & happy holidays!

Nicole at Valpo on Facebook...

2008-11-19T09:05:00.001-08:00

As an Admission Counselor, I work with teenagers every day, so I have come to realize that emails and phone calls are not always the best ways to contact students or for them to contact me. For those of you who prefer Facebook, I've created an account on Facebook for you all to contact me. You can find me by searching for Nicole at Valpo.

I look forward to chatting with you on Facebook...if you have any questions about Valpo or need any assistance throughout your college research process.

Best wishes!

Nicole at Valpo

Fall travel season has come to an end for this counselor...

2008-11-07T07:04:00.001-08:00

Today starts another chapter in the life of an admission counselor. Visit days (open houses). Fall travel has ended for this counselor and I will now be spending the next few months on campus....meeting families, running around at visit days, reviewing applications, and planning my spring travel (which starts in March).

While I'll miss my travel colleagues from other institutions, I'm glad to be coming "home" to my fellow Valpo colleagues and starting the next steps in the college admission procecss: applications and campus visits.

If you are a high school senior, you may want to do the following soon:

1. APPLY!

2. ASK questions (if you can't think of any, a good one to ask colleges is "What's unique about your institution?")

3. VISIT campus (schedule a campus tour to the colleges you are considering...you don't want to "inny, minny, miney, moe" your way to a college. A visit can really help make that final college decision in the end)

If you are a high school junior, it is never too early to start looking at colleges and asking questions. If you are considering several different schools, you may want to do the following:

1. Go to a college fair

2. Schedule a campus visit

3. Get on the school's mailing list

4. ASK questions about the application process, scholarships, and deadlines (this will help prepare you for next year)

I hope you find my tips helpful. Good luck to you all!

Travel season's ending and applications are rolling in...

2008-10-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

Six weeks on the road between September and November is a crazy busy time for an admission counselor...filled with late nights at college fairs, maps, Starbucks, fast food, hotels and getting lost. By the time November hits, we are ready to settle back in our offices and begin reading applications and meeting with families that come to visit campus.

I know many students have already applied to Valpo and are anxiously waiting for a response regarding an admission decision. If you haven't already started filling out college applications, think about doing that soon. You will want to take advantage of those scholarship prioroty dates. Everyone wants to receive the most money possible to go to college, right? Valpo's scholarship priority date is November 1.

I look forward to reviewing your application. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about your application. Good luck!

Sweet home...Michigan!

2008-10-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

I was in Michigan (my home state) the last 2 weeks. It's always good to be home. I forgot how chilly it can get up there...unexpectedly. I had an umbrella, a light jacket and had to buy a coat while I was there. I was freezing with those cold great lake winds.

I met some great students during my high school visits and college fairs. I felt like I was literally ALL over Michigan. From Coldwater to Grand Rapids to Holland and Midland....I put a few miles on my rental car.

I will be traveling next week in the Lansing area for a brief trip.

The Kellogg Community College fair, November 3, will mark my last event in the mitten this travel season.

Where's Nicole??

2008-09-18T06:41:00.001-07:00

Every fall I travel to several high schools in the Indianapolis area and west side of Michigan. Will I be visiting YOUR high school or attending a college fair in your area? I don't know...check out my fall travel schedule below:

Sept 22:

Branch County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM

Sept 23:

St. Joseph County Transfer Fair (MI) 10 AM - 12:30 PM
New Buffalo High School (MI)
St. Joseph County College Fair 6:30-8 PM

Sept 24:

SW Michigan College Transfer Day 10 AM - 1 PM
SW Michigan College Fair 6:30-8 PM

Sept 25:

St. Joseph High School (MI)
Michigan Lutheran High School
Northwood University College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM

Sept 30:

Forest Hills Central High School
E. Grand Rapids High School
Forest Hills Eastern High School

Oct 1:

Rockford High School
Grand Rapids Christian High School
West MI Lutheran High School
Grand Rapids College Night @ Aquinas College 6:30-8 PM

Oct 2:

West Ottawa High School
Forest Hills Northern High School
Holland Area College Fair 6:30-8 PM

Oct 6:

Centergrove High School
Franklin Central High School
Madison County College Fair 6:30-8 PM

Oct 7:

Brebeuf Prep. High School
Pike High School
Bishop Chatard (dropping off materials)
Greater Indianapolis South side College Fair 6-8 PM

Oct 8:

Greenwood High School
Roncalli High School
Indy West side College Fair @ Ben Davis H.S. 7-8:30 PM

Oct 14:

Allegan County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM

Oct 15:

Barry County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM

Oct 16:

Holt Lutheran High School

Nov 3 :

Kellogg Community College Fair (MI) 10 AM-1 PM/ 6:30-8 PM

Nov 6:

Indianapolis NACAC College Fair 9 AM-1 PM/ 6-8 PM

Colleges & Universities.....coming soon to a town near you.

2008-09-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

Many of you, high school students, have noticed that college admission counselors have started to trickle into your high school for college visits. Now is the time to get as much information about the schools that you are interested in while they are coming to you. Like me, I am currently traveling to high schools for college visits in Indy and western Michigan. Let me tell you from an admission counselor's perspective....we really do enjoy meeting with students at high schools. So, stop into your guidance office and sign up for the schools you are interested in learning more about. Then you can decide which onces you'd like to apply to and visit.

Indy...my second home...

2008-09-05T21:35:00.000-07:00

I visited high schools last week down in Indianapolis, IN (my second home). Overall, it was a good trip. I always enjoy meeting students at their high schools and spreading the word about Valpo. It was interesting - travel always is - everything from showing up at the old location of a high school to getting completely lost trying to find a school you've never been to before.

I am looking forward to another week in Indy - I will be on the north side next week. I hope to see many more new faces at my high school visits. If I don't see you at your high school though, you may spot me hanging out at a Starbucks or Panera Bread (my two favorite places).

On the Road again....

2008-08-20T10:52:00.001-07:00

I will be hitting the road again very soon. I begin my fall travel (going to high schools and college fairs in MI and IN) September 2, 2008. I look forward to meeting new students and families, visiting with guidance counselors, and seeing college admission friends on the road.