Best Tips for Planning Your College Visits
College visits are an important step in the college selection process for high school students who are college-bound. They provide an opportunity to get a feel for the campus and learn more about the school from current students and admissions staff.
The catch? With so many colleges and universities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for during these visits.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your college visits and find the right school for you.
Getting Your College Visits Right
First and foremost, research the schools ahead of time to get a sense of what each one has to offer. Look at their academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus culture to see which ones align with your interests and goals.
This will help you narrow down your list of schools to visit and make the most of your time on campus.
Checking out the Campus
When you schedule your visit, make sure to attend information sessions and take a tour of the campus. These will give you a sense of the school’s atmosphere and the resources available to students.
During the tour, take note of the location and surrounding area. Consider things like proximity to your home, safety, and availability of resources such as internships and job opportunities.
Talking to Everyone
One of the most valuable aspects of a college visit is the opportunity to talk to current students and faculty. Ask them about their experience at the school and get their perspective on the academic and social aspects of the college.
They can provide valuable insights and help you gain a better understanding of what it’s really like to attend that particular school.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Another important factor to consider when visiting colleges is cost and financial aid options. The cost of attendance can vary greatly from school to school, so it’s important to look into scholarships, grants, and work-study programs that may be available to help you afford the school.
It’s also a good idea to meet with the financial aid office during your visit to discuss your options and get a better understanding of how much you can expect to pay.
Student Housing
When it comes to student housing, take a look at the school’s options and try to get a sense of the student body by visiting a few dorm rooms.
This will give you a good idea of what it would be like to live on campus and whether the school’s housing options align with your preferences.
Trust Your Gut!
Lastly, pay attention to your gut feeling. The most important factor in your college decision is whether or not you can see yourself happy and successful at the school.
So, take your time and trust your instincts. It’s important to pick a school that aligns with your goals and values, and where you can see yourself thriving.
OPEN-EDvantage College Counseling
To wrap up, college visits are an important step in the college selection process and provide an opportunity to gain valuable insights and make an informed decision.
By researching schools ahead of time, attending information sessions and tours, talking to current students and faculty, considering cost and financial aid options, looking at student housing options, and trusting your gut, you can make the most of your college visits and find the right school for you.
If you need help planning your college visit, we actually include that as part of our college counseling!
We specialize at custom tailoring a plan that’s unique to your student’s needs. Working through individualized questions, discussions, and activities, we can provide the extra help your student needs to stay on track and be ready for the coming school year.
Contact us today to learn more about our services!
