Summer College Visits: Tips for Evaluating Schools

Now is a good time to look at colleges.  Though many of the “regular” students are not on campus, there are many aspects of the college campus, itself, that may help be of use to a student deciding whether to make application.

What to look for in a campus:

1. Visually appealing – Are the grounds well kept? Are the pathways in good shape? Is the campus well-lit?  Does the college take pride in its appearance?

2. Layout of the buildings – how long does it take to get from dorm room to classroom or dorm room to dining hall or classroom to classroom?  Is transportation needed/provided? Are bicycles, skateboards, cars allowed on campus? Is there any new construction?

3. Classroom setup - Do the classrooms look as if they are conducive to learning?  Are the classrooms laid out in a discussion style? Lecture style? Is this a learning environment you can learn in?

3. Living spaces – How many students to a room? Is there a bathroom in the dorm room?  Who is responsible for cleaning the dorm room and/or bathroom? May you have a microwave in the room?  Is there a common kitchen to use? Are the washing machines nearby?  Do the machines send messages to the student when the wash is done?  How is rooming decided (if there are choices)? Is the student required to live on campus 1, 2, or all years?  Is there guaranteed housing?  Are all the dorms air-conditioned? 

4. Common meeting areas - If the student is commuting, are there common areas where these types of students congregate between classes?

5. Library access – What are the regular hours? Is it open 24/7 during exams?  Is there a coffee shop or convenience store for those who study during the late night hours? 

6. Eating facilities – Are they clean? Is there a variety of foods from which to choose? Does the variety accommodate your dietary needs? Is the cost of food a pay-per-item or unlimited food upon entry program?  Are there facilities that have food available at odd hours?

7. Sports/exercise facilities – Does the facility look and smell clean? What is the proximity to dorms?  How accessible are the facilities to students?  Is there a separate facility for the athletic teams? What are the hours of operation? Is the general public permitted to use the facility?  How well is the equipment maintained? Is there unlimited access to clubs or intramural groups?

8. Safety – Is there a blue light system (many colleges have done away with this because most students carry cell phones)? Is there campus security/police that perform regular patrols? Are updates sent to students’ phones regarding campus security issues?   Are escorts available? Is the surrounding area safe?

A student should always register with the admissions office prior to making a college visit.  This way, the college has a record of the student’s demonstrated interest. If there is space available, student and family should sit in on an information session as well; oftentimes these are given before or after a tour. Most college visits include lots of walking, so be prepared.  Wear comfortable clothing and footwear; that which is also suitable for the weather. All visitors should refrain from wearing anything that might be considered offensive. Cell phones should be silenced during tours, so as not to distract others. Parents and students should bring something with which to record the visit, both pictorially and descriptively.  Students should take note of the things about the campus that appeal to them as well as those that do not. A college tour is also a good opportunity to meet a current student (most tours are conducted by students), and an opportunity to ask questions of the tour guide’s experience with the college decision process.

Next blog: Questions to Ask on your College Visit