6.4  Campus or Program Visit

Assignment 6.4:  Campus or Program Visit

Purpose:  One of the most important parts of investigating post-secondary educational option is campus or program visit. Visiting a chosen college will provide a first hand impression of the students, faculty, facilities, and programs. On a visit it is important to learn everything you can about the admissions process, gain a sense of the academic and social atmosphere, see the study/living/recreational facilities, talk with current students, and learn about the surrounding community. 

Instructions:  Use the following checklist to plan for your visit to at least one campus or program. Check off those items in which you participated in and be sure to answer the questions regarding the visit. 

Planning the visit

• A good campus visit takes about 2-6 hours (depending upon the college/program and the nature of the visit), be sure to include time to visit the surrounding area especially if you are unfamiliar with the community. 

• Contact the college or check their website prior to scheduling your visit and be sure to let the college know about all of the things you would like to see on your visit. 

• Be sure to ask if you can sit in on a class of interest.

During the visit

• Focus on people, facilities, and the programs.

• Talk to as many people as you can-including current students and instructors.

• Wander through the snack bars and student centers to observe how students interact with each other.

• Keep track of all names of people you talk with (get their card), especially those you will need to speak with again if you intend to return to this college.

• Discuss any accommodation needs with the appropriate personnel during the visit.

• Meet with a disability specialist on campus.

• Ask questions.

After the visit

• Complete the questions below and update any information on the College Comparison Worksheet.

• Send a thank you note.

Check off items completed during the college visit.