So, you’ve scheduled a visit to ABC University next week. Here is what to expect and how to make the most of it with a few easy tips.
At many colleges and universities across the country, the daily visit programs generally includes a presentation from the school’s admissions office featuring a highly produced video and a slide deck complete with all of the important facts and figures designed to impress students and parents alike. After the presentation, a campus tour led by a student ambassador will take you through the newest and most impressive academic buildings and dorms on campus. This has been the standard formula for years.
While this structure may be the most effective for a busy admissions office, it’s not always particularly helpful for students armed with questions about how the school may be the right fit for their individual academic and career goals. In order to maximize your time on campus, especially if you are traveling a distance, follow these simple instructions:
· Call the admissions office beforehand and ask for 30 minutes with an admissions counselor prior to or after the visit.
· Reach out to the academic department of your intended major and ask to meet with an advisor, faculty member or students. If time permits, ask to sit in on a class.
· If you are interested in specific student organizations, athletic team or other campus groups, contact them to see if they can discuss their organization with you.
A campus visit is the single best way to determine if an institution is the right fit for you, while you are there, make the most of it.