Item by Jim Bishop
Eastern Mennonite University is among 25 schools in the Old Dominion taking part in Virginia Private College Week, July 28-Aug. 2, sponsored by the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia.
Rising juniors and seniors in high school – and their families – may choose to visit just one or two colleges that interest them. However, those who visit at least three during the week will receive three application fee waivers. Students may redeem these waivers in applying to any CICV-member college.
During Private College Week, colleges may offer a campus tour and information sessions about admissions, financial aid and academic programs. Sessions at most colleges will begin at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, and at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2 (exceptions to this schedule are noted on www.privatecollegeweek.org).
Private College Week is not an organized bus tour. Students visit the colleges on their own and must arrange their own transportation. Students are also encouraged to call ahead for an appointment. EMU’s admissions office numbers are 540.432.4118; toll-free 800.368.2665.
Last year, CICV colleges reported 1,800 visits during Virginia Private College Week, with students and families visiting from 30 states and the District of Columbia.
Although websites, US News rankings, and the recommendations of friends and family are good sources of information, visiting campuses in person is one of the most important steps in the college search process.
Gov. Kaine has issued a proclamation recognizing July 28-Aug. 2 as “Private College Week” in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
“I encourage parents to explore which college will be the best fit for their son or daughter,” said Robert Lambeth, CICV president. “Our institutions are different from many state universities because our classes are smaller and students receive more personal attention. A private college education is more affordable than many families think.”
Last year, Virginia private colleges gave students more than $200 million in scholarships and grants. In-state students attending a Virginia private college are also eligible for the Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG). A program of the Commonwealth of Virginia, TAG will be approximately $3,200 next year. It is not based on need or merit and is an annual grant available for four years at the undergraduate level.
“Visiting campus is the best way to determine if the college is the right fit for students,” said Stephanie C. Shafer, director of undergraduate admissions at EMU. “So much can be learned about a college through interacting with the people who make up the campus community. It is important that students feel comfortable at the college they decide to attend, and what better way to know that than to visit,” she added.
More information about Virginia Private College Week and the application fee waivers can be found at www.privatecollegeweek.org or by contacting any of the participating colleges.
CICV was founded in 1971 to promote the interests of nonprofit, private colleges and universities in Virginia. CICV was also instrumental in starting the state’s TAG program.
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