I always tell my students and parents that choosing a college without visiting is like buying a car without a test drive. It’s a big investment, and you want to be sure it’s the right fit. An in-person campus visit goes beyond glossy brochures and virtual tours, giving students a real feel for the atmosphere, student life, and overall campus vibe.
In my experience as a college counselor, I’ve seen students completely change their college lists after taking college tours, sometimes falling in love with a school they hadn’t even considered before I suggested it.
A little preparation goes a long way to make the most of each visit. In this blog, I’m sharing practical tips to help your child confidently navigate campus visits.
When is the best time for campus visits?
It’s never too early to go check out a college campus. I encourage students to visit different types of campuses—large state universities, smaller private schools, and liberal arts colleges—to see what feels best for them. Many students assume they’ll prefer a big public university, only to discover they actually feel more at home on a smaller campus that their parents or college counselor suggested they visit.
If you have colleges in your area, take advantage of the opportunity to visit, even if they aren’t on your list. Walking through a local campus can help you get a sense of what you like or don’t like in a college environment. If you’re on vacation, consider taking a drive through nearby campuses because you never know what might spark your interest!
For the most authentic experience, visit when school is in session. While summer campus visits may be more convenient, they won’t give you the full picture. Dining halls and dorms feel empty, and the energy of student life is missing during school breaks. Walking a campus when classes are in full swing allows you to see students in action, observe campus culture, and better imagine yourself as part of the community.
Preparing for your campus visits
A little preparation can go a long way! Here are some helpful tips on what to do BEFORE your campus visit:
Register for your tour in advance
You can do this on most college websites or by calling the admissions office. At a minimum, you want to make sure to schedule a group presentation or an individual meeting with an admissions officer and a guided campus tour. I do not recommend walking around the campus without a guide. The tour guide will be able to give you access to more buildings and provide details that bring the school to life for you.
Arrange firsthand experiences
Weekday visits are best when classes are in session. Attending a small class or large lecture will help you gauge the academic environment. Meeting a professor will offer insight into coursework and research opportunities in your intended major. If you’re an athlete or involved in extracurriculars, consider setting up a meeting with a coach or club advisor. Even eating in the dining hall can reveal campus culture beyond the tour. Reach out to admissions in advance to arrange these experiences and make the most of your visit!
What to look for on your campus tour
Most college visits begin with an admission presentation or meeting with a College Admission Officer who will then send you out with a tour guide (usually a current student) for a campus tour. This is a great time to ask questions! Tour guides are often candid about their experiences, sharing both what they love and what they might change about the school. Don’t be afraid to ask their personal opinions. They’re usually happy to offer insight beyond what’s in the brochures.
As you walk through campus, make sure to see key areas like a classroom, dining hall, residence hall, recreation center, library, and bookstore. Most tours cover these stops, but if they don’t, ask to check them out. Take note of the campus atmosphere. Do students seem engaged, happy, and welcoming? Can you picture yourself living and learning here? Trust your instincts, as the right “fit” is about more than just academics.
Ask the right questions to get the inside scoop
Here are some key questions I encourage my students to ask admissions officers and tour guides to ensure the school is the right fit for you:
· What is the average class size for freshmen and upperclassmen?
· Are students taught by full-time faculty members, teaching assistants, or a combination of the two?
· What academic support services (e.g., writing center, tutoring) are available? Are they free?
· Is on-campus housing guaranteed for all four years? What are the deadlines for securing freshman housing?
· What do students do for fun? What clubs, sports, or Greek life options are available?
· Can freshmen have a car on campus? If so, is there a fee for a parking pass?
· What health and wellness resources are available (e.g., medical center, counseling services, pharmacy)?
· How safe is the campus and the surrounding environment, and what security measures are in place?
· What percentage of students graduate, and what are typical job placements and career outcomes?
· Are study abroad programs available? How easy is it to participate?
· What types of financial aid, scholarships, and grants are offered? How is aid awarded?
Additional tips for a smooth campus visit
Give yourself extra time
Plan for delays when finding parking or navigating campus. Arriving early ensures you start your visit relaxed, not rushed. Aim for at least three hours on campus, plus travel time.
Explore the surroundings
Take a drive around the neighborhood before heading home. The area around campus will be part of your college experience, so make sure it feels like a good fit.
Dress comfortably and professionally
Expect to do plenty of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. If you have a meeting with an admissions officer, professor, or coach, dress neatly because first impressions do matter!
Reflect and enjoy the journey
Campus visits are a fun part of the college search. I always recommend that at least one parent attend the visit. You will have plenty to talk about on your way home! You might want to jot down your thoughts after the visit so that you can remember the details.
Enjoy “trying on” each experience before you commit to a college. You might be surprised by what you find as your right fit college!
To learn how we’ll help with each step of your child’s journey to college, we invite you to schedule a call today with one of our Educational Specialists.
ABOUT OUR GUEST AUTHOR:
Jen Foldvary, M.Ed., is a College Consultant at Educational Connections. She previously worked as a private high school college counselor and as the Associate Director of Freshmen Admission at the University of Toledo. Jen holds a Bachelor’s in Special Education and a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from The University of Toledo. She began her career as a special education teacher.