The visit
Like everything else, you cannot assume you understand how a visit to one college “works” because you have visited another college. If there is only one message that we communicate on this website it is that every college’s admissions process is unique. Expectations, selectivity, deadlines, financial aid requirements all differ from one college to the next. Even how schools conduct visits will vary from college to college.The initial contact
Often the information you receive from a college will include details about a campus visit. Many schools have specific times set aside for tours and/or for information sessions. The larger the school, the more impersonal the process. However, even some large schools will also provide you the opportunity to talk to teachers and/or administrators in the major in which you are interested. Don’t hesitate to request anything. At smaller schools you may receive a personal tour. In addition, many schools will require or encourage an interview. This is important to know before you visit the campus so that you can call to set up an appointment for an interview. An alternate way of obtaining information about college visits is through the college’s web site. During your visit, request an interview with a specific coach or teacher in your field of interest. That person may turn out to be your advocate with the admissions committee.
Make sure a college knows you are interested. Visit, write follow-up thank you notes, contact local alumni, and talk with the visiting college representative. Some colleges actually keep track of the number of contacts you make.
The tour
Make good use of the tour. The tour provides a great opportunity to ask questions of an undergraduate student who is currently attending the college. Look at the list of possible questions that we have given you in class. Listen to the responses to other students’ questions as well. You should enter the tour with a few specific questions to ask. These questions should focus on those things that are important to you (computer connections, weekend social life, food, the quality of dorm life, the relationship between students and teachers, co-op programs, etc.). Keep good notes that reflect your impressions of each school.