Planning College Visits
Embarking on college visits is like diving into a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. It’s a journey filled with a mix of emotions - from exhilaration to exhaustion. But fear not, fellow parents and future college students! With a little planning and some insider tips, we can turn this potentially stressful experience into a memorable adventure that will help shape your child's academic future. I just got back from a week of touring with my son and these tips are fresh on my mind!
Tips to Get Started!
Preparation is Key: Start with Virtual Tours
Before you set foot on any campus, dip your toes into the world of virtual tours. It’s like peeking through a window before opening the door. This initial exploration will give you a sense of what to expect and help narrow your choices. It gives your student the power to choose schools that might be a good fit.
Crafting the Perfect Itinerary
It is no small feat to plan college visits. It takes coordination, planning, and perfect timing. Focus on the time of the tour, and once you are registered, plan the rest of the travel around that time. School breaks are a popular time to visit schools, so book those tours ahead of time!
Timing is Everything: Visit During the Semester
To truly capture the essence of campus life, schedule your visits when the colleges are in full swing. This way, you can witness the vibrant energy pulsating through the campus grounds. Students want to see the campus in action. What are the students doing? Can they see themselves in the mix?
Maximizing Your Campus Tour Experience
During the guided tours, encourage your child to take the lead while you linger toward the back. This is their chance to ask burning questions like, “How’s the food?” or “Are professors accessible?” Remember, there's no such thing as a silly question!
Explore the Surrounding Area
Inject some fun into your college visits by exploring the local scene. Whether sampling ice cream flavors or browsing through an indie bookstore, make it an adventure. For my son, it was coffee. Where could we find the best coffee shop around campus?
Embrace Open-Mindedness
Every college has its own unique vibe, and what resonates with you may differ from your child's perspective. Keep an open mind and encourage thoughtful reflection after each visit.
Enjoy the Journey
Amidst the whirlwind of college visits, don’t forget to savor the moments with your teen. Build in some downtime and fun activities unrelated to college. After all, this journey is not just about finding the perfect school but also about creating lasting memories together.
Of course, my job leads me to colleges, but I loved spending the week with my son, seeing schools from his perspective. He liked different things than I did and surprised me with his intuition. At the end of the day, he is the one going to college (although I sure would love to go back). His observations are the most important part. Enjoy that coffee shop! Enjoy finding the perfect ice cream! Soak it up and have fun with your child! Happy exploring!
