This was a project we did with American students last year. The aim of the project was communication and cultural exchange. We had several meetings along the semester in which, apart from knowing each other, we exchanged information on different topics about our habits, hobbies, food, parties, holidays and so. In the end, we had to represent a role play in front of our class mates, on a topic we had choosen from the US’ culture.
Here you have the final result.
The college application process is very stressful for many students in America. There is pressure for the students to recieve good grades all four years of high school, be involved in clubs and activities in their school, and perform service for the community.. The application for univerisities is very complex. Students have to provide information about all of their accomplishments, and activities. Also, they are asked to provide multiple letters of recomendation, from teachers, bosses, or other adults. They will be asked to write at least one essay, if not more. Many times, an interview is not required by the university to be accepted. However, for more prestigious colleges, it is required. For the universities that do not require it, applicants can ask for an interview to help them be accepted.
What has been your biggest achievment?
Well, I was president of the debate team the last two years, and this year we won the state championships. I really enjoyed leading the team to accomplish a common goal, a victory.
Why do you want to attend our college?
Attending this university has been my dream for the past four years. My mother went here and these were the best four years of her life. Additionally, I would love to pledge the same sorority as my mom, Alpha Chi Omega. She made friends for life, and I want to share the same experience. Also, I like the location of this university. I want to get far away from home for a while, and experience a new city.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I am on the varsity volleyball team. We have practice everyday after school, and sometimes games during the week, so i don´t really have time to do much else.
Have you had a job before?
Yes. On the weekends I am a waitress at the local country club. I have been working there for three years, and recently won the employee of the month award.
What kind of benefit have you been to your community?
Three times a week I volunteer at the nursing home where my grandma lives. I love getting to spend time with her, as well as play bingo with all of her friends. Some of the people living there never get visits from their family, so I like having the opportunity to cheer them up.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I hope to have graduated at the top of my class from Harvard law school, and have a job with a prestigious law firm.
What do you plan to major in, and why?
I plan to major in English and history. These subjects are very interesting to me and they will give me a strong background when I apply for law school. I also want to take some Spanish classes, because it is important to learn about other cultures and countries.
What would teachers say are your best and worst characteristics?
My teachers…..would say that my best characteristic is that I always put all my effort into my work. I take pride in every assignment that I turn in. However, sometimes I try to do too many things at once, and as a result, I have no free time and I am stressed.
What would you like to gain from attending our college?
As I have said, I wish to go to law school after this, and your university can help me gain valuable knowledge about this career, and develop a sense of independence away from my parents. This is a well known school, and I feel I am more likely to be accepted to law school if I have graduated from here.
What has been the most important person or event in your own self-development?
I think that my parents are the most important people in my life. They have always told me I can be anything that I want. They have supported me in everything that I want to do. They always believe in me, and help me accomplish my dreams
Do you consider yourself a “team player”?
Yes. I feel that team work is one of my strengths. When there is a mix of opinions, then the work is better. I always listen to everyone´s views, and try to include all of them.
Ok, I think that’s enough, do you have any questions?
Yes, How does the school treat AP scores? (AP, advanced placement, scores are the scores of certain classes that are offered in high school. At the end of the year the students take and exam and recieve a score from 1 to 5. Many schools accept scores 3 and higher, but some only 4 and higher. These scores allow students to be exempt for certain general education classes. For example, a score of a 4 on an AP U.S. History Class could give the student credit for a class of history. Every university is a little different in how this system works for them, and it is very important to students)
INTERVIEWER: Well, we accept the scores from advanced placement English, Literature, Statistics, Calculus, and U.S. history classes. For any other AP classes, the credits will be accepted only as electives, nothing more.
What is the system for matching roommates? (Freshman year, almost everyone is placed into a dorm room with a person they don´t know. Universities normally have some questions you must answer about yourself. Some universities ask alot of questions, such as if you smoke, do you like to go out, are you messy or clean, do you have any allergies, what are your hobbies, things like this. And some only ask one or two questions. Many people end up living with a roommate that is very different from them, and they do not get along well.)
INTERVIEWER: We have a questionnaire of twenty five questions for every person to complete. And, if there are problems, then after the first semester you can request to change roommates and we will do the best we can to find someone better for you. Anything else?
No, thank you
Ok, you’ll hear from us soon. Bye bye.
Footprints in the sand 