College Visits/Tours
College Visits/Tours
As students enter their junior and senior years of high school, deciding which college to attend is on the forefront of most minds. College visits can be a great way to narrow options. No matter how many pages of a college’s website or brochure you read, nothing can replicate the feeling of walking on campus or meeting with students and professors. Aside from providing opportunities for one-on-one discussions, prospective students can also pick up on the subtleties of campus culture that may not come across on paper.
You may schedule your own individual tours or you can ask Mr. Van Schyndel for assistance in scheduling your college visit. In order to be excused for your college visit day, parents/guardians must contact the Middle/High School office, informing the school of the day that they are visiting the college.
Below you will find a list of questions/things to look for when on your tour or you can follow the link for a printable version to take with you on your tour:
What are the most popular majors here?
What’s the average class sizes?
Are professors accessible outside of class (office hours, email, etc.)?
Are there internship opportunities for freshmen and sophomores?
What kind of academic support services are available (tutoring, writing center, study groups)?
How easy is it to change majors?
Do students typically stay on weekends?
What clubs and organizations are most active on campus?
What are some popular events students attend?
How do you join groups within campus?
Are freshmen required to live on campus?
What are the dorms like (room types, cleanliness, rules)?
What’s the roommate selection process?
What are the dining hall options like (meal plans, dietary restrictions)?
Is housing guaranteed after freshman year?
What is the total cost of attendance (tuition + room/board + fees)?
What scholarships or grants are available?
How many students receive financial aid?
Are there on-campus jobs or work-study opportunities?
Do buildings and dorms look updated and well-kept?
Is the campus walkable or is transportation needed between buildings?
Is there construction happening, and what’s being built?
Are there places to relax/study/socialize (green spaces, lounges, study rooms)?
What mental health resources are available?
What career services are offered (résumé help, mock interviews, job fairs)?
Is there support for first-generation, minority, or veteran students?
Are there accommodations for students with disabilities?
Is public transportation available and reliable?
Can students have cars on campus? Cost?
What are some things to do in the surrounding neighborhood?
What’s the graduation rate?
What percentage of graduates are employed or in grad school within 6 months?
What’s the role of athletics on campus (varsity, intramurals, clubs)?
What fitness facilities are available? Cost?
Do students attend games and events?
Why did you choose this college?
What do you like the most about the college?
What’s one thing you wish you could change?
How’s your relationship with professors?