Secrets to Successful Campus Visits…Part II
I promised a follow-up to last week’s entry about what makes the actual campus visit successful. But before we go any further, keep in mind that in order to have a good visit, it has to be “successful” for the prospective student and the university. I say this because college selection is a two-way street. Other than applying to the college or university of your choice and being admitted, the campus visit is the best way for all parties to gauge if a particular school is “a good fit” for you.
With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you prepare for a truly successful campus visit.
Top Five Tips for Success in Visiting a College Campus:
- Be on time. This is essential. Of course, there are things that happen unexpectedly, and admission counselors will understand if you have to call and cancel. But what I am really referring to is making sure that you do your homework before your visit. Ask yourself these questions ahead of time to help ensure that you arrive on time.
-How far is the campus, in traffic, from where you are staying?
-Where will you park?
-Are you going to take a train or bus? If so, do they run on time for the most part?Show up 10–15 minutes ahead of schedule so the staff can check you in for your appointments and make sure you get the appropriate materials for review. You might also have the chance to mingle with students and admission staff prior to your campus tour or information session. Universities work with numerous visiting students and we are excited to do so, but we also work within the guidelines of a current student’s academic schedule and the changing of classes. Tours must leave and return on time to make it work for you and for any other appointments you may have scheduled.
- Come prepared. So, you’ve scheduled your visit and you’re ready to meet with an Admission Counselor, but you don’t have any questions. Are you sure? If you have done your research and have an idea of what you are looking for in a college experience, be prepared to ask questions about things that are important to you (i.e. major offerings, size of classes, faculty interaction, school spirit, outcomes).
- Be courteous. You will most likely have different types of interactions on different campuses, whether you schedule an interview, meet with a faculty member, attend an information session, go on a campus tour, etc. Ensure you pay attention and respect anyone you may be meeting with at the time. Stop texting. Turn off your cell phone. Try to avoid side conversations when sitting through a presentation.
- Engage those around you. Prepare to talk with people outside of the presentation and/or interview. Tour guides are usually current students. See what they think about activities, Greek life, or the neighborhood. Try to work in an on-campus lunch to sample the food in the dining hall. Listen to the conversations taking place and see if you think you “fit” in the student body. Do you feel comfortable? Are there current students you can talk to about why they chose the school and what they think now? Do you know someone from your high school who attends? Chat with a faculty member if you had the chance to sit in on a class. Ask a staff member what he or she thinks about the community feel on campus.
Everyone you see is a part of the community you are considering. Their opinions should matter to you.
- Provide feedback. If the Admission Office asks you to fill out an evaluation about the tour, the tour guide, or the information session, please do so. Your opinion and insights really help us to improve and/or change a process. If someone was very helpful during your visit, share their name. Universities know it takes everyone in the community to assist with a campus visit, so we do like to thank individuals and recognize those who might be able to assist future visitors.
Also, take a few minutes and jot down some notes for yourself. What will you remember? What stood out? Will you apply? What is important feedback to give your parents at this time?