College visits are a critical step in the college application process. They give you a chance to learn more about a school and show admissions officers that you're interested. A visit helps you experience the campus vibe, the facilities, and what the classes are really like, which you can't get from a website. By visiting, you can narrow down your college list to the ones you're really interested in. Some colleges even track “demonstrated interest,” which means that college visits can boost your chances of acceptance.
Before you start visiting, it’s important to think about what you want in a college experience. What kind of campus are you looking for? What kind of classes interest you? What kind of environment do you thrive in? Identify your primary goals for each visit. Are you trying to determine if the school is a good fit, gather information, or demonstrate interest? Reflect on your long-term academic, career, and personal goals. How does this school align with your aspirations? Considering these questions before your visit will make it more effective and focused.
There are different types of college visits, so it's important to understand your options. You can do a trial run visit at a local college to get practice. You can also take virtual visits to see colleges from anywhere. And, of course, there are in-person visits, which give you the most comprehensive experience. A trial run is great practice and can help you get comfortable with the process. Virtual visits are more accessible and can help you narrow down your list. In-person visits provide the best glimpse of what it's really like to be a student on campus. Think about which type of visit makes the most sense for you based on factors such as time, money, and travel. You may want to virtually visit any colleges on your list and visit the big contenders in person.
To make the most of your visit, do some preparation. Bring your phone to take photos, a notebook for notes, and a folder for any handouts. Dress nicely, even for virtual visits. Have a list of questions prepared, because it can be hard to think of them on the spot. During your visit, listen closely to what the presenter or tour guide says to understand what the college values. Take notes on what you see and hear so you can refer to them later.
After your visit, it's important to follow up. Send thank you notes to the people who helped you. Circle back with admissions if you have more questions. Organize your notes and reflect on the experience. Some colleges send admissions officers to your area so you can learn about a school even if you cannot make it to campus. And remember, if you have been admitted to a school, consider attending admitted student programming to ensure that it is the best fit for you.
