Stepping onto campus for a tour can be filled with many emotions. Whether you are excited, nervous, or a combination of both, it is easy to be left speechless when your guide asks if you have any questions. Here, we’ll outline some great questions to have prepared before your visit.
Academics
More than anything else, college is a place to learn and further your education. It is important to understand how a potential school will meet your learning needs and expectations.
- How soon do students start classes in their major?
- What academic resources are available to students?
- What is the advising structure?
- What hands-on opportunities do students have in their classes?
- What does a typical class schedule look like here?
Campus Life
While a campus tour is a great way to get a sense of the campus environment, asking these questions will help you better understand the living experience you can expect.
- What is it like living in the dorms?
- What safety procedures are in place?
- How involved are students in on-campus activities and organizations?
- What do students like to do on the weekends?
- Is it common to work an on-campus job? If so, what are popular positions?
Career Readiness
Ultimately, earning a college degree is intended to prepare students for a future career following graduation. Ask questions about how a school prepares its students for professional success.
- Are students required to complete an internship? If so, how do students find them?
- Does the school have a dedicated career services department?
- What networking opportunities are there for students?
- How connected is the school’s alumni network to the student body?
- What companies have previously hired students?
- How does the university compare to other institutions as it relates to median earnings after graduation?
Personal
Each student you interact with will have different experiences to share. Move beyond some of the general questions and get a firsthand account of the school by asking your guide things like:
- What made you choose this university?
- Is there anything you wish you could change about your school?
- What do you feel are your school’s greatest strengths?
- What is a favorite memory from your time here so far?
- How do you believe your school has set you up for success upon graduation?
While this is not an exhaustive list, these questions are great starting points to help you get the most information out of your campus visit. Try to ask similar questions at each school you visit to help you compare your options better.
Interested in scheduling a visit to Drake? Learn more at drake.edu/visit.