Making the Most of the College Visit
/by Melissa Starrett
College admissions consultant, Melissa starrett, on a college visit
As a single parent and an elementary school teacher, it was both a necessity and in my nature to be the house enforcer and resident nagger. I was always making sure things got done–homework, chores etc. My tendency to “check up” on things wasn’t always well received by my kids.
One of the reasons I hired a college counselor was because I didn’t want to spend the college process nagging my kids. I wanted to be the fun parent for once! The idea of paying someone else to make a plan, keep us on track and push my kids sounded pretty great to me.
College visits were probably my favorite part of the entire process. They gave me an excuse to get away for a couple of days with one of my sons—or both. My younger son was dragged along on pretty much all of his older brother’s visits, which actually proved to be very helpful four years later…
I’d make a getaway out of each visit; booking a hotel and researching the local restaurants. I have so many fond memories of those trips. In addition to being helpful and informative, they ended up being some of the best bonding experiences with my kids.
Of course, there’s a little more pre-tour homework involved than simply figuring out where to eat:
How to Register for a College Tour:
Choose the college
Visit the official website and look for the Admissions section
Select Visit Campus or Campus Tours
Pick a date & time
Pay attention to additional information sessions that may be offered & require a separate registration
Complete the registration process. The prospective student should register using their information, not the parent’s!!!!
Do your research
Before your visit, go on the school’s website and find a few things you’re curious about. Put together some questions based on what you—or, more importantly, your child—actually wants to know.
Don’t sleep on the car ride.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve had some of my best conversations with my sons when they were trapped in the car on a long ride. Take advantage of the captive audience. Use that time to ask questions and chat. What are they looking forward to seeing? What do they want to know about the school? What are they excited about? What are they nervous about? And, most importantly, listen to what they have to say.
College visits are one of the few parts of the college process that don’t have to be stressful. They can be an opportunity to step away from the pressure—and just spend some time together.
Do your homework, plan the trip, find a great restaurant and enjoy the tour. The college may be your destination, but the time you spend together might end up being the part you remember most.
Read Part 2 of this blog post, The Campus Tour-DOs & DON’Ts here.
How The College Spy Can Help
Do you need help deciding which schools to visit? Our List Building Package will provide your child with an understanding of their college search criteria and teach them how to research colleges. We wrap up by providing you with a customized college list that fits your unique criteria. Learn more here.
Make the most of your college tours with this college tour resource. Our best advice is packed into this small and fun deck of cards. Make sure to bring it with you on all your college tours.
