Campus visits are a fabulous way to learn about and experience the schools on your college list. To make the most of your visit, follow these five tips.
1. Prepare some questions
Throughout your visit, you will have opportunities to ask questions of university students, faculty, or staff. This is a great chance to receive candid answers addressing everything from academics to campus life. While some university-specific questions may arise throughout your visit, it is also a good idea to formulate a few in advance that are relevant to what you are looking for in a college. For example, you might ask about available research opportunities or completing an honors track. To help you start thinking about what to ask, we have compiled a list of questions for your college tour.
2. Bring the essentials
There are a few important items to keep in mind for your visit. If you plan to take a walking tour, bring a pair of comfortable shoes and a bottle of water. Also, check the weather before your visit to determine if additional items like an umbrella, jacket, or sunscreen are needed. You should also bring a notepad and pen to write down information throughout the day.
Some universities may ask that you print out a visitor parking pass or download a campus map to know where to check in. Closely read the confirmation email for vital information like this.
3. Make connections
During your visit, you will meet a number of new faces, including other prospective students. If on a group tour, try striking up a conversation with another student.
Additionally, when meeting school staff and faculty, you may be given a business card or email to use for future correspondence. Consider following up after the visit to thank them for their time, share your experience, or ask further questions. This is a wonderful way to facilitate relationships during the college search and find a school with a strong sense of community.
4. Take notes
Taking notes during a campus visit is an effective way to streamline information, especially when comparing multiple schools. Whether you prefer to jot down observations in real-time or reflect afterward, having a note-taking strategy can be invaluable as you later narrow down your college list.
Consider breaking up your notes into categories like academics, facilities, campus life, and professional opportunities. By sorting key points under relevant areas, you can better organize your thoughts and better compare the strengths and weaknesses of each school you visit. Also include any additional follow-up questions you may have, as well as your overall impression of the visit.
5. Keep an open mind
It is natural to have preconceived ideas or expectations about a school based on its reputation and other factors. However, it is important to approach each campus visit with an open mind and readiness to learn. This will allow informed decision-making as you determine which school best meets your academic and personal needs.
6. Considering a visit to Drake?
Find all your options for a visit at Drake.edu/visit.
