What to Look For When You Visit Campus for the First Time
Visiting a college campus is one of the best ways to figure out whether a school feels right for you. Encoura, a major source of educational technology solutions, estimates that at least a third of college-bound high school seniors visit universities.
Different types of students look for different things from their college experience, but some important parts of going to school are universal. Here are some things to pay attention to when you visit a university or college campus for the first time.
Is the Campus Environment the Kind of Place You Could See Yourself in Every Day?
The most important thing is to get a sense of what it would feel like to live and study there every day. Pay attention to how the campus looks, how people interact, and whether you feel comfortable walking around. Are professors’ doors open? Do teachers, librarians, and guidance counselors seem approachable? How do you feel when you’re walking around?
This part matters more than most people think. A campus might have great programs, but if you do not feel excited or comfortable when you walk around the premises, it may not be the best fit. A place that feels welcoming and manageable usually means a smoother transition into college life.
What Academic Features Should You Look For When Prospecting a College?
Your major and classes will shape most of your time in college. While visiting, think about what will help you learn and stay motivated. Look at classroom buildings, labs, study areas, and places where students meet for group work. You can also ask current students what they like or do not like about their academic experience.
Here are a few things to check:
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How modern and well-kept the classrooms and study spaces are
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Whether students seem engaged in class or talking with professors
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What resources exist for tutoring, advising, and academic planning
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Whether professors have accessible hours posted on their doors
What Do You Want from Dorms, Food, and Student Life?
College is more than classes. You will spend a lot of time eating, sleeping, and hanging out with friends. Try to see a dorm room, explore the dining hall, and check out common spaces. Look at the clubs and activities posted around campus. If everything seems lively and connected, that is a good sign that you will find your community there.
Another thing to think about is the costs and benefits of on-campus versus off-campus housing and food. Some students love the idea of having fresh, interesting varieties of food every day. Other students prioritize affordability and simplicity. Some students want to live in an on-campus dorm to make friends (and some universities require this); others would rather have their own living space.
Visit My College Companion for More Information to Help You Get Ready for College
Choosing a college is a big decision, and a good campus visit can point you in the right direction. This is also a good time to learn about financial aid and negotiate your scholarship offers, since paying for college is a major part of your decision.
If you want help comparing schools, preparing for visits, or finding scholarships, reach out to My College Companion. Be sure to visit our blog to get helpful guidance for your college journey.
Frequently
Asked
Questions
How do I find scholarships that match my major and background?
There are many scholarships available for students from different backgrounds or who are pursuing specific degrees. By searching online, you can find scholarships for specific majors, as well as scholarships for specific types of students, such as single parents or members of the military. My College Companion can help you find a scholarship that will meet your needs.
Can I still apply for financial aid if I missed the FAFSA deadline?
You will typically want to fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) while you are planning to attend college. Submitting this form before you enroll in college can help ensure that you have financial aid lined up. However, even if you have missed the FAFSA deadline, you may have other options, since states and colleges have their own timelines. You may also apply for private scholarships or find other options for financial aid.
How Can I Improve My Time Management Skills in College?
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed as you begin attending college. Attending classes and completing homework and projects may be your main focus, but you will probably also want to maintain a social life and participate in activities, and you may also need to work. Finding the right balance can be tricky, but with the proper preparation, you can set yourself up for success.
To make sure you are managing your time effectively, you may want to set up a calendar to help you keep track of when you need to attend classes or labs while also blocking out time for homework, meetings with professors or advisors, study groups, social events, activities at school, or other events. You can set reminders for yourself, making sure you will not miss any deadlines and will be prepared for exams. Finding ways to prioritize what is important while still making time for yourself when necessary can help you get the most out of your college experience.
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