Tip Jar: How to Make the Most of Candidates’ Week

Two days before we kick off Candidates’ Week 2021, the Admission & Financial Aid team got together to write down our best tips for making the most of your virtual Candidates’ Week experience. We’re going to go ahead and bet that at least one of these is something you'll be glad you read!

"Be sure to join one of the social events. It's a great way to meet Oliners and have some fun during Candidates' Week!"

—Stephanie

Only a few of the events throughout Candidates’ Week are required, but the array of optional social activities, such as the Story Slam, Suite & Greet, and theater and musical performances, will help you get a feel for the pulse of the student community and start to envision what your life at Olin could be like.  

"Candidates' Week events will give you a look into Olin academics, culture, and community. Use this as an opportunity to ask any and every question you may have. Don't be afraid to speak up :)"

—Tori

While Candidates’ Week may spark new curiosity and questions that you didn’t know you had, you might also find it helpful to take a few minutes before the festivities begin to reflect on and even write down what you’re hoping to ask, learn, and experience during Candidates’ Week.

"Don't be afraid to ask the same question of multiple people."

—Emily

This is an important one! While we often encourage students to feel out a school’s unique culture, it’s worth acknowledging that this culture is NOT a monolith. Each community member experiences and creates it in different ways. Seeking out multiple perspectives that both support and challenge each other will help you gain a fuller picture of the school and the people that make it special.  

"Challenge yourself to take chances and step outside your comfort zone just a bit. You'll get out what you put in!"

—Dan

What would happen if you challenged yourself (to try a new activity, talk to someone you’ve never met, or change your mind about something) just ONCE during Candidates’ Week? Is there a chance you’d be glad you did?

"Remember that Candidates' Week is supposed to help you get to know Olin just as much as it is about us getting to know you. Relax and be your wonderful self!"

—Susan

The college process is a two-way street. It’s easy to focus on how colleges are evaluating you and your application, and it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that it also goes the other way! YOU get to choose the college that will best support your growth and learning for the next few years of your life. Candidates’ Week presents an incredible opportunity to explore whether Olin could be that place for you.

"After attending events, ask yourself if you can see yourself as part of the Olin community."

—Jean

An organization I once worked with had an informal saying: “If you have an experience but don’t debrief it after, did it ever even happen at all?” Just like how we’re taught to be prepared (study before the test, work out before the big game, practice before the recital), it’s equally important to take a moment afterwards to check in with ourselves and reflect. This process helps to reinforce, clarify, and deepen what we learn and take away from an experience.

"Drink water. It’s no fun to sit on Zoom for hours at a time if you’re feeling sluggish and dehydrated. On a similar note, take bathroom breaks. You don’t have to ask for permission to take care of yourself!"

—Alia

You are still a person with a beating heart and a body that has physical needs, even on Zoom.

"Don't stress and have fun. Candidates' Week is supposed to be enjoyable!"

—Krystal

Louder for the people in the back, Krystal! It’s okay to be nervous. It’s okay to take Candidates’ Week seriously. It’s also okay to laugh your butt off during the Design Challenge, roll your eyes and smile at Oliners’ corny jokes, and let your guard down a little if it feels good.

That’s all we’ve got! Best of luck, Candidates. We’re so proud of you, and we can’t wait to meet you.