Program & Booking FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Best College Fit Events
During the course of scheduling and working out the logistics for BCF events, it is common for potential program hosts to ask questions about timing, cost, and other related program features. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions with Peter's responses. Please contact Peter directly (717-808-5462 or Peter@BestCollegeFit.com) if you would like to discuss these or other related topics further.
Booking "The Admission Game®" and other Events
Q. When is the best time of the year to schedule Peter's signature program "The Admission Game®?"
A. The first answer is, "When it fits best in your programming cycle." Schools book "The Admission Game®" from August through mid-December and January through May. A lot depends on the audience you are targeting. For example, scheduling around your course registration period helps to reinforce messages relating to program rigor. Some schools find it is effective to schedule "The Admission Game®" several weeks in advance of a college night/fair in the area.
Q. How far in advance should we try to book a program?
A. Calling 4-6 months in advance if possible in order to book your preferred date is recommended.
Q. What time of the day/evening works best for starting the TAG program?
A. Peter recommends starting at a time when families can arrive most comfortably after a day of work/school. Keep in mind that "The Admission Game®" is a two-hour program packed with content. Most schools start the program at 7:00 PM. 6:30 or 7:30 can work, too.
Q. Is there a limit to how far Peter travels?
A. No. Peter goes wherever he is invited and has presented across the country and internationally.
"The Admission Game®" Program
Q. Which age group is best suited for "The Admission Game®" case study program?
A. The key program elements (finding a good fit, making appropriate curricular choices, developing personal interests) work best for Juniors. Younger students who are ready to be engaged in the college planning process benefit as well.
Q. A common lament of parents is, "Why isn't this offered in the Freshman or Sophomore years?"
A. The target audience is up to the program sponsor. Peter will present to any age group. For many families—parents in particular—early awareness of this information can be helpful. In order to accommodate those interests, Peter has found a good solution is to target Juniors and invite families of younger students to attend as well.
Q. Is it a good idea to include students and parents in the same session?
A. Absolutely! Peter enjoys working with mixed audiences. It's good for the whole family to hear the same message!
Other Programming
Q. Does Peter present other programs to younger students?
A. Yes. Peter has developed a motivational program entitled "Getting From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be" that has proven very successful with younger students—often in school assemblies. It is a 45-minute program that can be followed by Q&A. In addition, he presents several interactive programs to middle school students. Click here for descriptions.
Q. Is Peter available for keynote speeches?
A. Yes. Peter presents a number of 35-45 minute provocative and/or motivational programs that focus on themes of personal responsibility, effective decision-making, investing in one's self and taking ownership of the future. Click here for descriptions.
Q. Does Peter conduct professional development workshops?
A. Yes. Peter offers customizable, interactive professional development in half-day increments for up to 100 people. Elements of this program continue to be popular preconference workshops at the annual National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC) Conference. Click here to see the syllabus of topics.
Q. Does Peter ever present multiple sessions during the same day?
A. Yes. At a number of schools Peter presents programs, including application preparation workshops (essay writing, interview prep, etc.) for students during the day and programs for students and parents in the evening. A reduced rate combination package of half-day professional development programs during the day followed by events for families in the evening is also available.
Program Promotion
Q. How can we maximize attendance?
A. Program sponsors have effectively utilized numerous strategies to generate large audiences. Here are some suggestions:
- Publicize the event in the local media. Peter is available for pre-event interviews with media reps.
- Send announcements/reminders to families via email.
- Promote the event through the school's parent association.
- Use RSVPs with the invitation/announcement.
- Promote with coupons (available at the conclusion of the program) for extra credit that can be redeemed with teachers.
- Plan to disburse "official" school-based information (college planning packets, PSAT results) to students.
Program Costs
Q. How much does Peter's programming cost?
A. All inclusive fees depend on the nature of the event, length of the program, and geographic location. Please contact Peter directly at Peter@BestCollegeFit.com or 717-808-5462 to discuss rates.
Q. Our budget is tight. How might we fund a program?
A. Good question! Schools have done the following to make the programming possible financially:
- Collaborated with neighboring schools to share fees.
- Promoted the event as a fundraiser and sold tickets.
- Applied grant funds designated to promote college awareness.
Q. Are discounts available for multiple bookings?
A. Yes. Book multiple programs together to receive a reduced rate.
Other Resources by Peter Van Buskirk
Q. Are there other resources that would complement Peter's programming?
A. Yes! The core messages of Peter's programs can be found in his weekly blog.
