The Importance of Campus Visits for Juniors

As juniors in high school, embarking on college visits is a crucial step in our journey toward higher education. These visits provide a tangible sense of what life might be like at various institutions, aiding us in making informed decisions about where to apply and ultimately enroll.​ Starting visits as early as sophomore year can bee useful to have more time to explore a variety of schools from small to large, from urban to college towns, from liberal arts colleges to research universities. This will help you understand in which campus environments you are most likely to thrive.

Why Are College Visits Important?

College visits offer firsthand exposure to the environment, culture, and academic offerings of potential schools. They allow us to move beyond brochures and websites, experiencing the campus atmosphere, interacting with students and faculty, and envisioning ourselves as part of the community. This immersive experience is invaluable in determining whether a college aligns with our personal and academic goals.​ Attending classes, hanging out with students in the dining halls, participating in social events can yield valuable insights into the daily life of students on that campus. These experiences will help you determine if you can see yourself at that college.

When Should Juniors Plan College Visits?

Timing our visits strategically enhances the experience. Visiting campuses during the spring semester of junior year is often recommended, as colleges are in full session, providing a realistic view of campus life. Mondays through Thursdays are ideal, as students and faculty are actively engaged in academic activities. Fridays may be less optimal due to the onset of weekend events and reduced campus activity. ​Often, high schools will give students time away from classes to visit college campuses. Alternatively, you can time your visits to coincide with a school break but also when the college is still in session.  

Planning Your College Visits

Effective planning ensures we maximize the benefits of each visit. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Research and Prioritize: Identify colleges that align with our academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Prioritize visits based on factors such as programs offered, campus size, location, extracurricular opportunities, and cost (do not look at sticker price but use tools like the cost calculator on each college’s website and Jeff Selingo’s Buyers Sellers List of Colleges).​
2. Schedule Visits in Advance: Contact admissions offices to schedule tours and information sessions. Many colleges offer specialized events for prospective students, providing deeper insights into specific programs and campus resources.​ Book times with the academic departments you are interested in and time with student ambassadors if available.
3. Prepare Questions: Develop a list of questions to ask during tours and information sessions. Inquiring about class sizes, faculty accessibility, internship opportunities, and campus support services can provide a comprehensive understanding of what each college offers. Try to go beyond what is already on the college websites–what do you really care about? Ask those questions.
4. Engage with the Campus Community: Interacting with current students and faculty can offer authentic perspectives on the college experience. Attending a class, dining in the cafeteria, or participating in campus events can help us assess the social and academic environment.​
   

Virtual College Tours

When in-person visits are not feasible, virtual tours and info sessions serve as a valuable alternative. Many colleges offer online events that provide visual and informational insights into campus facilities, academic programs, and student life. These virtual experiences can complement our research and help narrow down our list of prospective colleges. When you attend, take notes in a dedicated spreadsheet. Otherwise, some of the schools might blur together in your memory.

Reflecting on Your Visits

After each visit, it's beneficial to reflect on our experiences:​

• Academic Fit: Did the college offer programs and resources that align with our academic interests and career aspirations?​
  
• Campus Environment: Did we feel comfortable and welcomed? Could we envision ourselves thriving in this setting?​
  
• Student Life: Were there extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that matched our interests?​
• Support Services: Did the college provide adequate support for academic advising, career counseling, and mental health?​

Conclusion

College visits during your junior or even sophomore year are instrumental in shaping your college admissions journey. They provide clarity, inform your choices, and empower you to select a college that best fits your academic and personal goals. By planning thoughtfully and engaging actively during these visits, you can position yourself to make decisions that will positively impact your future.