How important is networking at college application events?

Hello friends, I'm planning on attending several college application events to learn more about the schools I'm interested in. How much emphasis should I place on networking with admissions officers and other students at these events? Will it make a noticeable impact on my application?

Hey there! It's great to see that you're planning on attending college application events to learn more about your prospective schools. Networking can indeed have its benefits and can play a role in the college admissions process. However, it's important not to forget the primary goal of these events: to gather information about the schools you're interested in.

That being said, building relationships with admissions officers or getting to know other students can help in several ways. If you maintain a positive presence during the events, you may stand out to admissions officers when they review your application. Connecting with current students can give you unique insights and a better understanding of the school's culture, which you can then utilize in your essays and interviews.

Lastly, remember that while networking can be helpful, it should be an additional factor rather than the main focus of your efforts. Ultimately, having a strong application with good grades, SAT/ACT scores, essays, and extracurricular activities will have the most significant impact. Good luck!