The Campus Visit:  Taking the Tour

Reading through college brochures and surfing campus websites can tell you so much about a campus, but nothing can compare to seeing it first hand.  Remember that the marketing materials don’t tell the whole story.  Visiting allows you to experience the campus’ personality.  While it may be difficult to visit every campus during the selection stage, it is exceptionally important that you visit once you are accepted and before mailing your final decision.

Tips for the Campus Visit

Schedule your visit --- Visit at a time when there will be someone available to meet with you to give you a tour of campus.  Leave enough time to walk around on your own after the tour.

Make the most of your visit --- Before arriving on campus, contact a professor in your intended field of study or an advisor of a club that interests you, to arrange an informational meeting.

Try the food and see a dorm --- Remember, the campus will be your second home.  You want to make sure it’s a good fit.  Have lunch in the cafeteria.  Tour the first-year student residence halls.

Collect materials --- Pick up all admissions materials and financial aid brochures.  Student newspapers, flyers and activity calendars will also give you a sense of what campus life is really like.

Reflect and write --- Jot down a few notes to capture your impression of the campus immediately after the tour.  Record the names of the college staff you interacted with and send them thank-you notes.

It is how you ask your questions that will be the difference between receiving a rehearsed answer and a helpful one!

Smart Questions to Ask Admissions Representatives

Are first-year students guaranteed housing?  Every year?

What percentage of students receive grants and scholarships?

How many students are involved in internships?  Where do they intern?

Are first-year students required to bring a computer?  Are there any labs?

What percentage of students go to graduate school?  Which schools?

What is the average class size during the first year?  What is the largest class?

Do first-year students live in doubles, triples, or quads?

Smart Questions to Ask Student Tour Guides

What did you do for fun last weekend?  Do people stay on campus?

Can first-year students have a car on campus?  Do you need one?

What classes are you taking right now?  Have you taken a class you didn’t like?

How much time do you spend on homework?  Where do you usually study?

What types of activities are you involved in on campus?  What do you like best?

How accessible are professors out of class?  Are tutors available for extra help?