A campus visit to a post-secondary institution is the best way to discover the personality of the college. Students find it is often the most useful step in helping them build their list and decide whether to apply to a particular school. There are a number of ways of obtaining first-hand impressions of schools including group tours, open house events, and group information sessions. Visits during the regular academic year when school is in session provides a more accurate view of the academic and social life of a campus, but families often make use of summer vacation to visit several schools that are at a distance.
***Due to COVID, we realize it may be difficult to visit college campuses.Tips For Visiting A College Campus
Research the college (s) before you visit.
Register for information sessions and tours ahead of time on the college's admissions webpage.
The best time to visit a college campus is when college is in session.
To have a true sense of the campus, plan to spend a half-day at each college visit.
Arrive with questions in hand that are not easily answered by viewing the website.
Students should ask the questions - not parents! Parents, if you do have questions be sure yours are logical "parent concerns" such as cost and safety.
Make sure you see what's important to you (chemistry lab, radio station, freshman dorms, career center). If possible, sit in on a class or speak with a professor in the academic area of your interest.
Engage current students in conversation and ask them questions.
Try to schedule an interview while you are on campus. Some smaller colleges require an interview; others make it optional.
If you are on campus to meet with a member of the athletic staff or visit the music department, schedule an appointment ahead of time so they are expecting you.
Visit the student union, the library, and campus bookstore. Read the bulletin boards. Pick up a copy of the school newspaper and other publications.
Take notes - perhaps purchase a postcard from the bookstore and use it to record your impressions. Also note any particular likes or dislikes you had about the school. Include any questions that the visit provoked - call the admissions office when you get home to follow up.
Eat a meal on campus (check out the cafeteria and the snack bar). Find out what meals are available - kosher, vegan, vegetarian, nut/dairy-free, etc.
Attend an extracurricular event.
Trust your gut instincts about a college regardless of others comments. You owe it to yourself to discover your own opinions. What you are looking for in a college may be different than what others are focused on.