We put 5 questions to Kent Rinehart, an Admissions Counselor at Marist College. Here's what he told us:

Noodle Education: Can you give us one great insider tip for getting in to your college?

Kent Rinehart: Be yourself. We don't want you to join clubs to impress us; join because it is something that you are passionate about. You should be yourself in the whole experience--academically, socially, in your extracurricular activities, and in your essay.

NE: Something that would surprise our readers about the students at your school?

KR: Marist students are really committed to service and helping their communities, whether it is helping a fellow student, someone in local community, or abroad doing a service project. They are really committed to helping people less fortunate than themselves.

NE: If I were coming to visit your campus, what's one thing I should be sure to see or do?

KR: Go down to the bank of the Hudson River to Long View Park. It is a part of our campus and offers one of the most stunning views of the Hudson River--and one of the nicest views on any college campus.

NE: One thing students should NOT do when applying to your school?

KR: Don't misrepresent who you are and your experiences because ultimately it may hurt you in the end. This is an ethical standard. That is not accepted in college admissions.

NE: I got wait listed at your school: any advice?

KR: You should certainly update us about what has been going on since submitting your application, both academically and outside of the classroom. If you have a clear number-one choice, tell the college that. But if not, do not say that it's your number one. One last thing: prepare for a plan B. More often than not, students on wait lists are not admitted to the school, so be prepared and understand that there are a lot of good schools out there. It's not the end of the world if you're not admitted into your top choice.

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