By The Princeton Review
When it comes to researching potential schools, there is nothing better than the college visit.If possible, visit every college that you are strongly considering. No website, guidebook or testimonial will give you a better feel for a school than you’ll get by showing up. Choosing where to eventually go is a big decision, and you’ll want to base it on as much available info as you can.
Mind the calendar. Schedule your visit while school is in session. You won’t get a realistic idea of student life in July.
Meet the experts. Talk to the current students – they may soon be your peers. If they have a problem or grievance, they will probably share it with you. If they love their school, they won’t be shy about it either. Specific questions yield far more interesting (and helpful) answers.
Meet the other experts. Stop by the admissions office and introduce yourself. Let them know what interests you about the school so they can direct you to the best place for further investigation. Colleges do keep track of which applicants have demonstrated genuine interest in the school. Some schools will let you interview with an admissions rep during your campus visit. If available, don’t pass it up.
Take the campus tour. Although it’s the most obvious thing to do, it is worth your while. (Find out if you need to register to get a spot.) It gives the school a chance to show its best face. While you’re walking around, check out the flyers and bulletin boards and pick up a school newspaper to get a sense of what’s going on.