What to Look for During a College Visit

By Aria Falcone, JIF ‘17

As you begin your college search, you might feel daunted with all of the possible options to explore. So many places seem to have majors that you’re interested in pursuing. Visiting a college means that you’re interested enough to go and see the place for yourself. This time is about exploration, open-mindedness, and trusting your instincts.

1. Make note of the buildings with departments you are interested in. On most college tours, you will tour various academic buildings so that you can see what a classroom looks like. If you’re especially interested in STEM, try to determine where the buildings are that are related to your interests. If you’re interested in music and there are few practice rooms and music resources, then this is not the place for you.

2. Visit a class. Many schools will allow you to visit a class while you are on campus. Usually, you will be shown a list of classes that welcome visitors. Go to a class if your schedule permits, because it will give you an introduction to what your classes will be like if you attend that school.

3. Ask about clubs, sports, and other activities. If you really enjoy a particular club, make sure that it will be available for you, or see what the school’s policy is on students creating new organizations. Schools also usually have a directory of the available clubs on their websites. It is important that you are in an environment that will encourage your interests and allow you to thrive.

4. Tour a dorm, or, if not available, ask about dorm life. Since this will be your home for the next four years, it is important that you feel comfortable with your impression of the dorm life. Make note of where the dorms are in relation to other buildings you might need to go to.

5. Explore the surrounding area. It is important to feel excited and comfortable about the area the school is located. If you like to be around a busy place with lots of traffic, then a school located in rural area might not be the best option for you, and vice versa.

6. Listen to your gut. If a school feels like home for you, that is important. If you’ve admired a school for a long time, but once you arrive on campus, it just doesn’t feel like “you,” that is something to listen to.

7. Interview, if possible. On-campus interviews are a great way to start the college application process. If the school offers on-campus interviews, the interview will allow admissions officers to get to know your personality and more about you. There isn’t a “right” way to interview, and there is never a “right” thing to say that will ensure your acceptance. However, getting to know who you are adds depth to your application so they can see who you are as a person.