Campus Visit Tips

A campus visit is one of the most important elements in your college search.  The most important factor in choosing a college, is finding the right “fit’’ for the individual.  This feeling of belonging at a college determines a student’s success and happiness in college.  Do not solely rely on the marketing materials you receive from an institution or that you find in periodicals.  A campus visit serves not only to allow you to see the physical aspects, but to meet the students, faculty, staff and to get the “feel” of the campus.  Below are some helpful hints to consider when planning a campus visit.

• Meet with an admission officer.

• Discuss current admission requirements (necessary high school preparation and tests).

• It is often helpful to bring a copy of your current high school transcript or your own list of classes you have taken.

• Refresh yourself on the activities you’ve been involved with in high school.  When you are in an interview, it is common to forget many of your activities.  Use your ILP to take this information and class information if you do not have a transcript.

• Inquire about the institution’s academic requirements/standards.

• Discuss your chances for admission.

• Determine when students are required to declare their major.

• Obtain any current information (school calendar, catalog, application, financial aid).

• Request information on current school costs.

• Get an overview of financial aid (forms required, deadlines, scholarships, grants, loans).

• Request to meet with faculty in the academic area of interest to you.

• Request to meet with a coach or extracurricular advisor.

• Inquire about typical class size and faculty/student ratio.  Attending a class will give you a first hand look at teaching style and academic atmosphere.

• Inquire about career planning services and the placement record for graduates in your field of study.

• Tour the campus – important areas:  residence halls, dining hall, library, classroom, computer facilities, etc.

• Talk to current students.  They are the best resource for “getting the low down” on the general academic environment and the study commitment.

• Determine the student activities available (clubs, organizations, intramurals), as well as, campus life and social activities.

• Visit the surrounding community and be sure amenities you want/need are available.

• Take notes and pictures to keep in a file (electronic or paper) on each school you visit.