Why You Should Visit College Campuses

Deciding on the right university is both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. It’s a crucial choice that will influence your future, so it’s important to carefully think it through. While it might not be possible for everyone, visiting colleges if you can is a great idea. It’s a surprising fact that most international students never visit the colleges they apply to. Yet, seeing these campuses in person can give you a lot of helpful insights that might change your mind about where to go.

Advantages of Visiting Colleges

Firstly, college tours can reveal new options that you hadn’t thought of before. You can experience things that brochures and websites just can’t show you. Also, these visits might change your mind about schools you thought you’d like but don’t feel right when you actually see them. This can make the whole college application time less stressful for both you and your parents.

Planning Your Tour

When you’re setting up your visits, it’s important to plan smartly. Try to keep it to no more than three colleges a day. This gives you enough time to really get a feel for each campus without getting too tired. Think about how long your trip will be and talk with your parents about any specific places they think you should see.

Choosing Which Cities to Visit

When deciding on which places to visit, think about what matters most to you. Things like the size of the city, the international community, and what majors are available are key factors. Consider what you’re hoping to find. Do you want a welcoming campus, a diverse student body, or lots of different programs to choose from? See if the campus feels like a good fit for you and take note of the general atmosphere.

Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

Before you go, contact the admissions office to set up a guided tour and try to meet with a student who is studying what you’re interested in. This can give you a real sense of what it’s like to study and live there.

Thinking Differently About Your Choices

When planning where to go, don’t just focus on the famous schools like NYU or Harvard because they’re very selective. Also consider lesser-known colleges that might have unique programs that interest you. For instance, if you’re visiting New York City, think about checking out places like PACE, Fordham, or Baruch as well as the big names. In Boston, look at schools like Suffolk or Northeastern, not just Harvard and MIT.

Keep an Open Mind

Planning your college tours well can make a big difference in finding the right university for you. By keeping an open mind and carefully planning your visits, you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision about where to spend your college years.