We started visiting early (partly because we’re in the NE and it was easy, partly cuz DH had reasons to be at various colleges and took the girls.) I don’t think we visited 20 over 2-3 years.
You let this make sense. You don’t see it as missing 20 days of school. Eg, wanna see Penn? So see one or two of the nearby LACs, too. Have more time? Drive north and see a few more.
Yes, kids change their minds A LOT by December of senior year. It’s why some on CC advocate starting with local day trips. Mine saw one local mega U and it changed her perspective. She saw Wesleyan, saw all those kids in the library on a Sat, and became intrigued with the academically competitive LACs.
It is a process.
Don’t assume there is a magic formula. You have miles to go and have only just begun. Don’t assume you know all the factors now or that your ideas won’t evolve as you go. Have an open mind.