October marks a critical time for high school students to explore colleges and universities, whether through virtual tours or in-person visits. These experiences are invaluable, offering insights that can’t be captured in brochures or websites. Here’s how school counselors and educational consultants can guide students to make the most of these opportunities.
Pre-Visit Preparation: Encourage students to research colleges beforehand to tailor their visits to their interests and needs. They should prepare a list of questions that address their academic and extracurricular priorities, campus culture, and support services. This preparation ensures that they can gather specific information that aids in making informed decisions.
Engage Actively During Visits: Students should be encouraged to engage actively during college visits. This means participating in tours, attending information sessions, and speaking with admissions representatives, faculty, and current students. These interactions provide a deeper understanding of the institution and what it offers.
Document Impressions and Gather Information: Taking notes and even photographing key aspects of the campus can help students remember what they liked or disliked about each visit. Collecting pamphlets, business cards, and course catalogs can also provide additional information to review later.
Reflect Post-Visit: After each visit, students should take the time to reflect on their experience. They should consider how well the college matches their academic and personal needs. Encouraging students to think about whether they can see themselves thriving in that environment can help narrow down their choices.
Follow Up: If students have lingering questions or need more information, advise them to follow up with the college’s admissions office. This not only helps them gain a clearer understanding of the college but also demonstrates their interest in the institution.
By leveraging these strategies, students can transform college visits from routine tours into powerful tools for decision-making. These experiences help them gain clarity on their college preferences, leading to more confident and informed choices when it comes time to apply.