“I’m not asking if you’re enthusiastic about a particular college, but rather, are you enthusiastic about this next big chapter in your life? Are you excited about the prospect of going to college?”

This question is crucial because enthusiasm is contagious. Enthusiastic students are more likely to be engaged, proactive, and successful in their college applications.

“Enthusiastic people tend to be upbeat and positive. They make things happen because they’re, well, enthusiastic! And, for a college admissions officer, that enthusiasm, when it shines through, can be very attractive.”

Colleges want to admit students who are genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow. Enthusiasm demonstrates a strong desire to attend college and a willingness to actively engage in the college search process.

“People who are enthusiastic can’t wait to explore colleges, interact with the colleges, and learn more so they can make informed decisions about where to spend the next four years of their life.”

True enthusiasm translates into action. Students who are genuinely excited about college will actively seek out information, visit campuses, and engage with college representatives.

“When I see a student continuously look to his or her parents for information about colleges they’ve looked at; or, who declare they want to go to college but haven’t done much else to make it happen – I don’t see enthusiasm for what should be one of the most exciting times of their lives.”

A lack of initiative can signal a lack of genuine interest. Students who are truly excited about college will take ownership of the process and actively pursue their goals.

“And if I can’t see it, I doubt the college will see it. And the chances of being accepted starts to drop – and we don’t want that.”

College admissions officers are looking for students who are passionate and motivated. Demonstrating genuine enthusiasm can significantly increase your chances of admission.

“College is the starting point of the next ‘big chapter’ – you should be eager to get out there and see what’s available to you. You have to get out there in a big way – the college is not going to come and find you sitting on your couch or while you’re instant messaging your friends.”

Proactive engagement is key. You need to take the initiative to research colleges, attend college fairs, and reach out to admissions officers.

“Your Smart Plan for College Assignment:

• Check your enthusiasm meter! When you think about going off to college (ignore all the steps needed to make it happen for just a second), are you excited about the idea? Are you looking forward to it? Are you motivated to do things on your own, without your parents telling you to do it?

If you answered “yes” – great. We need you to stay focused on that and start taking action to make it happen.

Now, if you haven’t done anything significant to move the ball forward in the college process, but you’ve answered “yes” to the questions, then we need to figure out why that is.

If you’re not doing something on a regular and consistent basis to move your college plan forward, why? Is it because you need a plan? Great, get one.”

This revised version is more concise, engaging, and emphasizes the importance of student initiative and proactive engagement in the college search process.