Want to attend college but don’t have an idea of where? Stuck between two schools and need a deciding factor? Well, look no further because now it is the time to schedule college visits. These self-guided, online, or guided campus tours can allow future college students to get an idea of where they are going to spend their next few years. These opportunities aid students in envisioning themselves at their chosen school.
“They are a great way to picture yourself at the college and see how comfortable you feel on campus,” said senior Chloe Pastrana. “You not only get to learn your way around, but you get to talk to people who currently go there.”
Since visits are available year-round, it can be difficult to know when the correct time is to visit.
“I think you should visit each college twice,” said Montalvo. “You get to see the campus through two very different seasons and experience what it looks like.”
During the school year, it might be hard for students to find days on which they don’t have classes and can go on a visit. If they were able to find time on a weekend, those scheduled times can be harder to attain since the demand for them is so high, leading students to look ahead and schedule one on a break during the school year.
“I definitely think the best time for college visits is during breaks from school,” said junior Gabby Cabangon. “Whether Thanksgiving, winter, or spring break.”
Students also can have difficulty knowing which colleges they should tour, since many have applied to multiple.
“Go on a trip to every college you got accepted to,” said Rocks. “It really helps to narrow down your choices, especially if you plan on dorming.”
Each experience can be very different for curious students, depending on their personal preferences. There is much to take into consideration while on a visit, so having questions prepared before is important.
“It’s always great to ask your student guide as much as possible,” said Pastrana. “I wish I had gone in with more questions and possibly prior knowledge of the college I was visiting.”
Junior Rylee Partridge got to experience George Mason University while attending the Washington Journalism and Media Conference.
“I would say that getting to experience the campus for a week, as well as the area around the college, helped me gain insight into what I do and do not want for my college experience,” said Partridge.
Students of all grade levels who are interested in pursuing higher education should look into the schools of their choice and visit them. They have many benefits that help paint a better picture, giving students an easier decision on where they want to go.
