Campus Visits

You know the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"; the same is true for judging a college by its brochure or website. It's important to look beyond the photographs and do a more in-depth examination of what the college has to offer to you. Most colleges offer a series of open house events as well as regularly scheduled campus tours. This is an excellent way to view the campus. Try to visit when school is in session and be observant.

• Is it a large campus?
• Are the buildings clean and in good repair?
• Does the campus gymnasium or field house have extended hours for student use?
• Check out the bulletin boards on campus. Do the postings have anything you might want?
• Find and read a copy of the school newspaper. What does it tell you about the school?
• Talk to the students. Do you feel comfortable with the students on campus? Is this important to you?
• Can you schedule an appointment with a faculty member or coach whose department or team is important to you?
• Can you arrange an overnight visit? Attend classes?
• Do you need to be concerned about dietary issues? Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher kitchen? Find out now if the school can accommodate your needs.
• Take Notes! Take photos.

The Campus Visit

Campus visits provide the perfect opportunity to get a sense of the campus in the most direct way possible. You will have an opportunity to observe students on campus, to visit all the important facilities, to sit in on classes, and to meet with those people on campus who can provide information to help you make your best decision. In addition to specific features about the school, you will get a "feel" for the school to find out if it would be a good place for you to spend the next two or four years of your life. Much like any other major purchase you will make, a campus visit is a vital part of gathering information before you make a financial as well as personal commitment to a college.

Colleges encourage students and their families to visit their campus and gather first-hand information about their school. Making arrangements for a visit is a simple matter. What may be more complex is arranging for a more complete tour of several colleges, often referred to as the "grand tour" of colleges. Early planning and the tips included in this section will help you make better use of your time and to get the most out of your visits.

Click here for a list of Campus Visit Tips.