What Should I Pack?

So, you got an interview? Congratulations! You’re halfway through the process! In preparation for your interview weekend, here is a list of handy items to pack. Now, I’m quite the packer. I’d rather have too much than too little, so feel free to pick and choose based on your needs.

• Business professional attire- For your interviews, you want to present the best image possible. Make sure your attire is as polished as possible. It’s never too early to send your favorite pant suit or dress to the cleaners or polish your shoes. All eyes will be on you! (Speaking of attire, comfortable shoes are a must)

• Cold weather accessories- Athens isn’t terribly cold in winter, but you still might need a coat or jacket. If you’re traveling to Athens from warmer regions, be sure to keep this in mind. It might be a good idea to check the weather before you travel to campus.

• Leather portfolio/folder with notepad- During your interview weekend, you’re going to get a lot of information. Having a folder or portfolio on hand will ensure you have a place to put it all. Also, you can pack extra copies of your resume and your interview schedule.

• Emergency extras- It doesn’t hurt to pack an extra item. Extras can include pantyhose, a sewing kit, mints, lint roller, medications, nail files, band-aids, etc. Trust me, sometimes it comes in handy. Right before one my interviews, I needed to replace a button. Luckily I had just what I needed to do it! Hey, things happen.

• Snacks and a water bottle- In between interviews or after, you might want to eat a quick snack to keep your energy up. It will be two long days, but you can do it!

• Questions- you’re here for the CSAA program and assistantship providers to interview you, but you can also interview them as well. Come prepared with questions to ask students, faculty, and staff about the UGA experience.

• Thank you cards- A thank you goes a long way. If you would like to pack thank you cards to give out, you are welcome to do so. The best tip I’ve ever got regarding thank you notes is to send it within 24-48 hours.

• Make it personal- pack anything that will make you feel most comfortable for your travel to Athens and your interview days.

Good luck and see you in February! GO DAWGS!

-Shanice

Shanice M. Christopher

Second Year, College Student Affairs Administration (CSAA)

Hi! My name is Shanice Christopher and I a second-year student in the CSAA program. I serve as the Graduate Resident for Academic Initiatives in UGA’s University Housing department. Essentially, I work with first-year living and learning communities and all academic programs sponsored by University Housing. I came to CSAA from Spelman College, where I served as an Admissions Counselor for three years. My professional interests include admissions, enrollment management, college access pipelines, and multicultural student success. Additionally, I am an Ambassador for ACPA. When I’m not underneath journals and papers, I enjoy traveling, exploring new restaurants, and coordinating Netflix Nights.