Campus Visits

The campus visit is key to the college search process. It’s an opportunity to define how an institution fits your needs and it is truly the best way to learn about a particular college or university. Families typically get a “gut feeling” by visiting as to whether the school should be on your list or taken off. On a visit you can meet students and faculty, visit classes, ask questions, stay overnight, see the facilities, eat in the dining halls, and more. To arrange for a campus visit call the admission office or visit their website, 3-4 weeks prior to your visit date. Explain to them exactly what you want to do while on campus and they will try to accommodate you. Note – fall is the busiest time to visit campuses!

When to visit a college campus is a tough question. Many families take advantage of summer vacations to visit. It’s a great time because typically families and admission staff members are not extremely busy; however, you will not see campus in its true fashion during the summer months. Weekday visits during the school year are great because you can attend class and meet with campus personnel, but you will miss class yourself. Many schools give you the option to spend the night in the residence halls, a terrific way to see what student life and activities are really like.

Campus Interviews/Group Info Sessions – campuses are different, inquire about their offerings during a visit. Some schools offer large group sessions before or after the tour while others will arrange for you to meet individually or interview with an admission representative. If you meet with a professor, advisor or admission rep individually, follow up with a thank you note or email when you return home. Read up on the school ahead of time and think of questions to ask. It is suggested that you bring an unofficial copy of your grades or your most recent grade report if meeting individually with someone on staff.

Things to notice during your visit:

Questions to ask your tour guide…

Why did you choose . . . .?
How big are your classes?
Do you have a computer in your room?
Where do you study?
Is this a diverse community?
What housing options are there, do many students live off campus?
How easy is it to get the classes you want, what is registration like?
What other colleges did you apply to?
What do you think are the school’s greatest strengths and weaknesses?
What one thing would you change about the school?
Inquire about social life, safety, accessibility of professors outside of class, weekend life, etc.

Take notes & keep a file from each campus visit.

When the visit is over think about…

Would I fit in here (academically & personally)?
Were the people friendly?
What’s the surrounding area like?
Do you feel safe on the campus?
Are there things to do on campus?
Did the campus impress you (facilities, professors, social atmosphere, residence halls, and food)?
Do they have what I’m looking for in major and other programs?