Prepare Your Questions
Be sure to think beforehand about what you want to ask during your visit. Make a list of your questions and concerns: you may even want to categorize them by topics (for example, dorm living, campus security, job placement opportunities, etc.) Doing the prep work beforehand lessens the possibility that you will forget to ask something crucial in making your decision.
Talk to Current Students
Actual students can give you more of the real “scoop” about university life than faculty members can, and you might feel more comfortable with them. Often, campus tours are given by student volunteers. You might even be able to arrange to meet with a student enrolled in the program or major you are considering. This way, you can find out about details you might not get during a routine tour.
Sit in on a Lecture
Visiting an actual college class in your area of interest can give you a feel for what the academic piece of your college experience will be like. Be sure to ask about this ahead of time so your visit can be timed to coincide with a lecture you might be interested in.
Visit the Dorms
Most colleges have a variety of living options for students, and these options often vary depending on what “class” you are in. For example, at some colleges, all freshmen are required to live in dorms, but upper classmen have the option of living off-campus. Find out what the roommate arrangements are, and start thinking about what suits your personality. Questions to consider: Would you be better off in a double or a quad? In a single-sex or coed dorm? How are roommates selected?
Explore College Life
Don’t just check out the academics. Make sure you spend time looking at the other important components of the college experience. Eat a meal in one of the dining halls. Visit the library. Wander the grounds. Check out the campus bookstore. Investigate the gym and fitness center. Getting a feel for the campus as a whole will help you decide whether or not it’s a good fit for you.
Find Out About Social Opportunities
What opportunities are available to help freshmen meet and mingle with other students? Often, freshman orientation programs present students with opportunities to begin to get to know other students. But you might want to find out about ongoing activities (sports, clubs, volunteer opportunities, etc.) you can get involved in that will help you to network socially.
Investigate Financial Aid
As college costs soar ever higher, most students need some assistance in paying for it all. Find out what kind of scholarships, loans, grants, or work options you may qualify for.
Deciding which college to attend is one of the biggest decisions you will have to make. Gathering all the facts you need will help the process run much more smoothly.
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