College visits are much more than a campus tour! They're an opportunity to get a feel for the overall experience a college offers its students and whether you can picture yourself thriving in its community. In this article, we'll share 7 things you can do to make the most of your college visits! 

Explore academic programs 

If a college offers majors or programs that interest you, try making an appointment with a professor or advisor in those departments to learn more. They can offer some insight into the required coursework, classes that students love, and what alumni have done professionally after graduating. They can also potentially connect you with current students in that program to learn more about their experience. Having an idea of whether that college can give you the academic experience you're looking for early on can help you decide if you want to apply there when it's time! Learn more about choosing a college major. 

Additionally, if possible, you can also request to sit in on a class or lecture in a major that interests you. This can help you familiarize yourself with educators in that department and learn more about class sizes at a college. 

Explore the surrounding community

If you have any free time during your visit, check out the college's surrounding community and what it has to offer. Try heading to a restaurant, coffee shop, or park to help you consider whether the area feels like a place you'd enjoy living for the next few years. You can also try to learn more about the public transportation in the area and how convenient it is to get to places from campus. 

Explore housing options

If you plan to live on campus your freshman year, try touring a residence hall. You can ask RAs or tour guides about different housing options on campus and their general costs. You can also learn more about any amenities offered in dorms, such as dining halls or laundry facilities. 

Get a feel for the campus culture

Campus culture plays a significant role in a student's college experience! Choosing a college whose culture aligns with your values, provides opportunities for you to de-stress and have fun, and makes you feel safe and supported is key. On your college visit, check out campus hangout spots and student spaces to get a feel for a day in the life of a student there. 

Visit admissions and financial aid

During college visits, students will typically learn about the application and financial aid processes. If you want to learn more, you can head to the admissions and financial aid offices to speak with someone and ask any questions you may have! You can ask about what makes a stand-out application at that school, tips for completing financial aid forms such as the FAFSA, and more. 

Talk to students

During your college visit, try asking a current student about their experience at that school. You can ask things like: 

• What are the pros and cons of attending school here?
• What are some clubs and events on or around campus that students love? 
• How does this school respond to social and political events?
• How does this school take care of its students?
• Where are the best study and food spots?

Hearing about a college straight from current students can help you decide whether it would be a good fit for you!

Take notes

Document your experience on campus by taking notes about what you've learned, any pros and cons, and whether you can see yourself attending and thriving at that school. These notes will definitely come in handy as you start to work on your college applications! 

Click the button below to download our college tour note sheet and keep all your thoughts, notes, and questions organized! 

Have any questions about college visits? Text #College to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you!