Cigus Vanni AKA “The College Fairy” is Project 440’s college specialist and Instruments for Success Lead Teaching Artist. He has more than 40 years of experience in college search and selection including as a college admissions counselor, school counselor, and school psychologist. Cigus is the first member of his family to attend college, earning his BA from Swarthmore College and certification in school psychology from Bryn Mawr College. Cigus is also a five-time winner and undefeated Jeopardy! champion—he knows a lot of stuff!
This month, Cigus answers three more questions about the college application process. Look for the next edition of “Ask Me Anything” with Cigus in our May e-newsletter, and be sure to visit Cigus at his table at the College Fair for Musicians on Saturday, June 4 at the Kimmel Center to ask him anything you want to know about the college admissions process!
Q: Should I visit each college where I apply?
Ideally, yes, you should visit as the experience of being on campus may provide significant information—both cognitive and emotional—about whether that school is right for you. This may be unfeasible because of time or monetary constraints but one may get a meaningful sense of a given college by accessing virtual tours, info sessions and webinars on the school’s website.
Q: How important is my college essay?
An essay should be genuine, display self-awareness, show insight and provide a meaningful story about what an applicant believes is important enough to serve as a representation of their real self. It can provide a college with important cues about whether an individual fits that school’s vibe and mission. The essay is also a vehicle by which an applicant can share what obstacles they might have overcome to get through high school, although there should be no pressure on a student to relive trauma. Academic rigor and grades are generally more important than one’s essay.
Q: If I am applying to study music, do I have to visit the college to play my audition?
With the pandemic easing, the answer is probably yes. Many colleges were conducting auditions online but that is likely to change. There are, however, some schools that will conduct auditions on a regional basis which may mean that they will be in or close to your home city.
One more Bonus Question:
Q: I am a senior in college. Is it too late to apply?
No—you can apply to any community college up until the week that fall classes begin and there are some four-year colleges that also accept applications in this timeframe.