How to Master a Campus Tour
What to Do Before, During, and After a Visit
What to Do Before, During, and After a Visit
A college tour is more than just a simple visit to campus; it’s a firsthand exploration of where you might spend some of the most transformative years of your life. It’s your chance to see beyond the brochures, to ask meaningful questions, and to determine whether a campus feels not just impressive, but right for you.
Before the Tour: Crafting Your Blueprint
Timing Your Visit
The ideal time to visit a campus is when school is in session so you can get a true understanding of the daily energy and atmosphere. This immersion offers a real-life snapshot of campus life, from the student dynamics in between classes to how students spend their free time after a day at school.
Tour Type Matters
Many colleges offer a wide spectrum of tour experiences but keep in mind that spots can fill up quickly, so remember to book your tour well in advance. To learn more about the tour options offered and reserve your spot, visit the college’s website.
Common types of tours:
- Group tour: You’ll be given a specific time slot and will walk around campus with a group of other prospective students and their families. Your tour guide will provide insights as you walk around and ask questions about the school.
- Private tour: If you are looking for a more in-depth view of a school, maybe for a particular major or program, you might register for a private tour. The school will likely set you up with a tour guide that can answer your unique questions and show you more buildings that would be of interest to you.
- Self-guided tour: If you are looking for a more casual experience you may find that some schools offer a self-guided tour. You can usually download or pick up a map from the admissions office and get started. It will take you to the main attractions so you can get familiar with the campus layout and amenities.
- Virtual tour: Many schools now offer virtual tours for students and their families who can’t travel to campus for a day. These are a great way to still explore the campus and get the feeling of walking around. Check out the school’s website to see if this is offered!
Research as a Tool
Before you go on a campus tour, turn your notes into a ranked list of questions you want answered. Download and use the Conquering Campus Visits eBook to use as a guide! Delve into your prospective school’s website, investigate their academic offerings, and get a feel for campus culture through their social media presence, online student newspaper, and list of upcoming student events. You can also talk to friends and family members who attend the school to gain more insight. A well-prepared list of questions can transform a routine tour into a treasure trove of insights.
During the Tour: Embrace Your Experience
Active Participation
Once you’re on the tour, be an active participant to get the most out of your college visit. Your tour guide is there to answer any questions you might have. You should also speak with professors and current students to gain further insight if possible. The school’s admission office may be able to help connect you with student ambassadors and others as part of your visit if you reach out in advance.
Roads Less Traveled
The official campus tour is only the beginning! There typically isn’t time on the official tour to visit every building or spot on campus, so it’s up to you to keep exploring. Visit the spots where students naturally gravitate to get an idea of the true spirit of campus
Some places you may want to visit (if allowed) include:
- Dining halls
- Residence halls
- Gym
- Coffee shops
- Off-campus hangout spots
- Local restaurants
- Campus transportation
Document Your Journey
Your observations during the tour are important. Remember to keep an open mind; your perceptions of the college might change while you are there. Take notes of your first impressions, snap some photos, and gather brochures. These will be invaluable resources when you reflect on your visit and compare your experiences between different campuses.
After the Tour: Reflection
Look Back on Your Experience
After the tour, revisit your notes and photos. Think through and analyze how each aspect of campus resonated with you, both intellectually and emotionally. How did it align with your academic goals and personal values? Was the environment somewhere you could see yourself thriving? It’s okay if what you thought you wanted changes during your college search; in fact, that's the whole point of the visit – what you imagine it being like may not be the reality.
Seek Clarity
Have unanswered questions? Reach out to the admissions office or specific departments. The initiative can often lead to crucial insights and demonstrate your genuine interest in the college.
The Art of Comparison
If your journey to college includes visits to multiple campuses, take the time to compare them thoroughly. Beyond the academic offers, consider the overall environment, student life, and particularly the feelings you had walking through campus. This comprehensive comparison will guide you to the right choice. You can borrow our college comparison worksheet to get started.
Important Aspects to Consider
Academic and Extracurricular Fit
Evaluate the academic programs against your interests. Look for specific majors, internships, and experiential learning programs. Do not forget to explore student-led clubs and organizations.
Resource Availability and Accessibility
Consider the resources the college has to offer. Libraries, labs, health services, and career services are essential for supporting your academic journey and overall wellbeing.
The Surrounding Community
The surrounding community will be an extension of your college experience – ask yourself: What does the community offer in terms of entertainment, internship opportunities, and involvement? Be sure to explore!
Financial Planning
Get to know the tuition fees, housing costs, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid options available. You should also consider the costs for traveling home, transportation while on campus, and extracurriculars you might want to join.