Admissions Mastery

Session 5 of 6: Facilitator Guide

Rising Senior Intensive

The Verbal Narrative

Session Purpose

To master the verbal literature of admissions. Scholars will translate their "distance traveled" into a high-impact verbal pitch for interviews and scholarship panels.

Timing & Resources

Focus: Verbal Personal Branding

Required: Mastery Slides, Storyboard Handout

Pacing Guide

Time	Activity	Key Points
5 min	The Elevator Test	Slide 2: "Tell me about yourself." Why lists are bad. Intro the Past/Present/Future formula.
10 min	Pitch Logic Lab	Worksheet Part 1. Scholars write 1 punchy sentence for each block. Goal: Start with a unique Origin.
10 min	Speed Pitching	2 rounds. Rotation. Scholars have 60 seconds. Partner gives feedback on eye contact and "The Closer" question.
5 min	The Mirror Wrap	Share: "What was the most impressive thing your partner said?"

Translation: The Asset Frame

Texas Context:

Don't just say you go to high school in [City]. Say: "I'm a pioneer from [Region], ready to bring my community's work ethic to [College]."

Verbal Power:

Never end with "I guess." Always end with a question: "How does your campus help first-gen students find research mentors?"

Facilitator Hint:

Speed Pitching is high energy. Keep the timer visible. Encourage scholars to "own the silence"—pause for effect before they start their pitch.

Admissions Mastery

Admissions Mastery Facilitator Guide

Admissions Mastery Slides

Pitch Storyboard Worksheet