College Visits
Getting The Most Out of Them

There will come a time when you, as a high school student, will start to look toward your future at college. This process may seem distant, scary, or overwhelming but it is also exciting and rewarding.

To make the most of this process, it is important to learn more about what will be expected of you. First, talk to family, friends, teachers, and guidance counselors to see if they have insight into your strengths and areas of interest. Once you have a better idea of what you enjoy studying and what you are good at doing, you will be better prepared for the next part of the process.

The second step is to find schools that offer programs that fit your strengths, goals, and interests. You will have many opportunities to do that at college fairs, information sessions, and college open houses. There are even websites dedicated to this step (check with your Guidance Office for online resources).

Additionally, it is important for you to determine what type of college campus you like best. Whether it's big, small, urban, or rural, you will be able to learn which college setting makes you feel most comfortable by visiting many different types of schools.

The college visit is a great way to do this. It may start at a college's open house, a tour set up by parents, or even a walk-in visit. To make the most of this experience, it's important that you learn about the three main aspects of a college visit.

Appearance: Since you only get one chance to make a first impression, you want to put your best foot forward. I am not suggesting that you wear a suit and tie or a dress, but please don't wear jeans and a tee shirt.You never know who you will meet on a college visit, and since you might want to attend this college one day, it's recommended that you look presentable. Additionally, don't even think about wearing any type of hat as you don't know who it may offend.

Preparedness: Be prepared for your visit and you will reap the benefits. You should have a pen and note pad in case you need to write things down or take a person's name. It is important that you, the student, actually do the note taking and not your parents; they won't be able to help you take notes next year, so start to learn how now. If you are visiting an art school or a college that requires a portfolio, you should bring it; you may get a chance to speak with a future teacher or a department head who may want to see your work. An important point to remember, however, is that what you bring to the college should be portable, lightweight, and easy to show people. You don't want to be carrying a 20x20 canvas across campus.

Questions: There are two parts to this step: asking questions and being prepared to answer questions. There will most likely be time during your college visit for you to ask questions. You may be directing questions to a tour guide, professor, or department head so take advantage of this chance to ask about what is on your mind. Don't go silent and then on the car ride home wish you had asked a question. You may only get one chance so this is also where having a note pad can come in handy. If you need to write your questions down so you don't forget them, do that. Remember to be polite and wait your turn when asking questions. When your turn comes, speak so you can be heard and don't use nonsensical words such as "UMM", "AHH", and "LIKE".

In addition to your fact-finding mission, you may be called on to answer questions for the tour guide, professor, or department chair. Again, be ready to answer firmly and respectfully. Certain people at a college, such as admissions counselors, may want to know why you want to attend that college. If you don't have an appropriate response, you may negatively impact your chances of attending that college. An important point to remember is that it is never a bad idea to take a few seconds to compose an answer that is well rounded and insightful. It will pay off in the end.

Hopefully, these points will help you to be successful in finding a school that is a great fit for you.Some colleges are more competitive than others and may involve more steps to get in, but no matter where you decide to visit or where you decide to attend, if you follow these guidelines you are sure to get more out of your college visits.

Editorial provided by Bryan Boppert, Associate Director of Admissions, Marian Court College.