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Choosing a college is like deciding the rest of your life. When I started my college search, just like many of you, I had absolutely no idea. Where do I go? Big or small? Private or public? Near or far? Liberal arts or major-specific? I began my search by looking on the internet, but I needed more than just a pretty picture to help me find what each school was all about. In my search, I visited 20 schools, and went on 9 official college tours. I found that college tours are essential to any college search. They will answer all of your questions, and even help you decide what kind of college fits you. So take tours at all kinds of schools, even one that doesn’t fit your ideal description. It may end up being better than you expected.
There are some things you can expect from a the college tour experience. Before most college tours, the college will offer an information session. An information session is usually led by an admissions counselor and covers the entire spectrum of things you would want to know about the college. This may include: student life, Greek life, school history, last year’s admission statistics, the school philosophy, the average first year courses, school safety, meal plans, tuition costs and financial aid. The most helpful information for me was the admission processes, because not all schools are looking for the same qualities in their students. You may find that you fit one school’s description better than another’s. When it comes to application time, emphasize the qualities that you have, and that they are looking for on your application.
The sessions are likely to last up to an hour, and by that time, I was always ready to get up and see the campus. There are some things you will want to remember to enhance your tour experience:
Choose your guide. Student tour guides will introduce themselves and then usually split the room equally. I always went with the tour guide that was most like me; either had my major, had the same hobbies, or someone that had a cheerful and optimistic attitude. Don't be afraid to go to a different tour guide; they were never strict.
Look presentable. The admissions counselor giving your information session may be the one reviewing your application and deciding your acceptance. Regardless if the counselor covers your area, it is nice to introduce yourself and tell the counselor one thing that you are excited about at the school. The counselor is more likely to remember your name and face, and of course, first impressions are all about appearance.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. When I went on my trip, I wore nice sneaker slides that went with everything. The tour itself can last up to an hour or longer, and involves a lot of walking.
Bring sunglasses. You just can’t take it all in when you squint, and if it’s really sunny, don’t forget sun screen.
Drink bottled water. An hour of walking... water is a necessity. They probably will remember you if you faint in the middle of the tour, but not a good idea.
Stay toward the front of the pack. Sometimes tour groups can be large, and it is easy to get lost in the crowd. If you stay in front with the tour guide, you can ask all the questions you would like and not miss out on any of the information being shared.
Ask questions! The tour guides will give you the most honest answers. Take full advantage of asking them about student life and their experiences on campus, classes, professors, and college life. They are usually really good about giving out their email addresses if you have any other questions for later, if not, ask! I hear college students love to get email.
Leave your resume. At the conclusion of most tours, the tour guide will invite you back to the admissions building to pick up more information or ask questions. Offer the counselor your resume, that way a folder with your name on it will be waiting for your application. It will also remind the counselor that you visited the school while reviewing your file and application.
Reflect. It may sound very English teacher-ish, but if you visit many schools in a short period of time, all the campuses will start to blend together. You will have the best recollection, and the most enthusiasm or non-enthusiasm for each school when you leave the tour. Keep a notebook of what you thought. When I kept my notebook, I wrote down everything. I wrote my tour guides name, the weather, the time of day, everything I thought about the campus, things I liked and didn’t like, my feelings, and anything else I wanted to remember. When I looked back on my notes, I was able to remember each campus very clearly and specifically.
Okay, so the hard part still isn’t over, but I hope that after you
go on a few college tours, you will have a better idea of what kind of
school is right for you. Good luck!
Related
Articles:
State
College Savings Programs (Select
your state)
Affording a College Education
Family
Financial Resources
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