Ready…Set….Go…Buckle Up for College Visits

Like any big purchase, research is pivotal to making the right decision.  The same applies to selecting your next academic home. Over the years, I've clocked countless hours touring universities, witnessing both the amazing and the not-so-great sides of campus life. With final exams in the rear view mirror and applications on the horizon, now is the time to dig more deeply into which college will best serve your goals.  Despite the lack of student traffic, there is still value to walking the walk so take advantage of a more flexible summer schedule to tour colleges. I'm here to spill all the beans and share some insider tips to ensure your campus visits are nothing short of spectacular.

But fear not, my fellow college adventurers. You can be savvy consumers in this sea of sameness. Take a moment to jot down what truly matters to you. Then, when you're touring campuses, don't be afraid to dig deeper. Ask the tough questions, seek out different perspectives, and don't settle for the cookie-cutter spiel.

So buckle up. Let’s begin our campus tour with my “Top Tips” to maximize your college visit experience:

Tip #1 – Plan Ahead 

First things first, don't procrastinate! Register for your visit on the college website ASAP.  Dates fill quickly. Oh, and here's a biggie: make sure YOU, the student, are the one doing the registration.

Give yourself plenty of time for each visit; you don't want to feel rushed. And trust me, I've learned the hard way – limit yourself to one or two campuses per day.

Oh, and here's a secret weapon: a positive attitude. Get a good night's sleep before each visit because your goal is to soak in the vibe and see if you can picture yourself thriving there academically and socially.

Tip #2 – Where are you headed?

Before you step foot on campus, do a quick Google dive. Explore the university's website to see what's making headlines and what's buzzing on campus. It'll give you some great talking points during the information session and tour.

And please, for the love of comfy shoes, figure out where you're parking beforehand. Some campuses have parking lots that feel like they're in a different time zone from the admission office. When you arrive at the admissions office, introduce yourself at the check in table.  And if you have a chance to confirm who your admissions representative is, now presents an optimum opportunity.

Tip #3 – Know your options!

You know what they say, knowledge is power. If you've got specific things you want to see or do, don't be afraid to ask. Want to sit in on a class? Reach out to the admission office beforehand. And hey, if you're a budding musician or artist, see if you can meet with department heads.

Tip #4 –You Be the Leader!

If you're bringing along a parent or adult, make sure you lead the charge into the admission office. And maybe consider splitting up during the tour – you'll get different perspectives. Oh, and whatever you do, don't commit the ultimate faux pas: wearing gear from a rival college. It's a rookie mistake you don't want to make.

Soak it all in! Take photos, jot down notes, and don't be afraid to strike up conversations. Explore every nook and cranny of campus – you never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon.

So there you have it, my friends. Armed with these tips, you're ready to tackle your campus visits like the rising Senior you are. Sure, you can't control how colleges market themselves, but you can control how much you demand to know about them. After all, it's your journey, not theirs.