A: Your appearance -- the first visual impression you make on college representatives and admissions officials -- is as critical as your resume. You want to make sure you send a visual message that you are thoughtful, responsible and restrained, and that you are capable of exercising good judgment.

Yes, your appearance can convey all of those things. The image you project reveals much about how you view yourself and even something of what you think of others. The goal of a face-to-face college interview should be to let decision-makers see that you know how to look presentable without upstaging or detracting from your brains and credentials.

For girls, a skirt suit is the best bet for a college interview. Dresses and pantsuits seem, to many, less traditional if not less professional. Wear a skirt suit in a neutral color such as black, brown, navy or gray. Make sure the skirt hem hits the knee or lower when standing. (Remember, it rises when you sit.)

Pumps with a heel, even a low one, are the smartest footwear choice. Avoid wearing shoes that are too trendy and loud, such as patent-leather wedges. A blouse or camisole should have a neckline high enough to preclude cleavage, and nude hosiery is appropriate.

For boys, a suit or blazer worn with a necktie gives the best impression. Avoid a necktie with a zany pattern or loud colors -- it could pose a distraction. Consider a solid, darker color, but if you have to have a print, go with a conservative plaid, stripe or other pattern.

Wear a button-up, collared shirt in white or a light color. Make sure your dress shoes are in good condition and polished, and that your socks are not lighter than your pants.

For boys and girls, it's OK to wear something that reflects creativity and individuality. But you don't want to go overboard and look like a cultural rebel. Limit more overt self-expression to a brooch, a cuff link, a touch of subtle color or an interesting print.

Finally, avoid bling overload and wear a mild lotion or aftershave. Perfume or cologne tends to be strong and can be offensive or possibly even cause an allergic reaction.