<p>Well, as we are looking at only HBCU’s in the south, doing so without a trip would be foolish, IMO, since nothing remotely close exists in the Pacific NW. D has been on campus for school events at both our huge state flagship and a small private here in Seattle, as well as a week-long summer program at one of the directionals. On our next visit to mu hometown, we’ll drive into Boston and she can take a look at some of the options there. DD’s district has all freshmen (and juniors) take the PSAT, so she’s aware of where she stands and what has to improve, and her grades are quite consistent. I agree that not everyone needs to take on college tours after 9th grade but for us it’s important.</p>