<p>Since college visitation season is now starting for juniors like myself, I was just wondering how to actually make the most of a college visit. </p>
<p>Let's assume that a whole day can be dedicated to one college. </p>
<p>What shold you do? </p>
<p>Where should you go? </p>
<p>What should you read/ eat/ experience/ see... and what should you not do? </p>
<p>What should you care most about on campus, and what should be a lower priority?</p>
<p>I'm going to try and keep this general, but please post tips, advice, hints, etc., whether they are all-encompassing or just geared to one school or a select type of school. I know that I could use some general advice, and I'm sure that my Class of 2010 counterparts could, as well.</p>
<p>One thing I did as a parent while my daughter was sitting in on a class was park myself on a bench in a heavy traffic area - near the library or student dining hall, and randomly ask students to tell me what they liked or disliked about the school. I was amazed by their frankness and their desire to share their thoughts with a stranger - I heard the good and the bad. Granted this is very subjective but it helped balance out the promo speech given by the admission dept. Enjoy your visits.</p>
<p>I went to visit colleges on Colorado in August - right around the beginning of the freshmen orientation - and it was a WONDERFUL experience. I went to a few others at different times, and the freshmen orientation was the best. I was able to see what the school did to get the kids adjusted. Also, there were a lot of students speaking out and it was a lot of fun (I visited a lot of Liberal Arts Colleges). It was a great experience.</p>
<p>I'd definitely say visit the dorms and eat the food. At least try to, some don't allow it. Also, look at the bathroom to make sure it's not... nasty. I also took a good look at the library - were there enough areas that were quite to get work done? What are the hours?</p>
<p>I definitely like cmbmom's idea of asking students to tell them what they liked and disliked. I did that, and I asked very blunt questions ("How much busywork do you get from teachers?" "Do you have fun here?" "I know the school says its very diverse, but what do YOU think?")</p>
<p>Just ask whatever you want to know. I also went around campuses (5-10 minutes out of the main campus usually) to see what's around there and see if I'd like it. </p>
<p>I'd say there's not really too much you can do WRONG on a college visit. Just try to be on time, not be rude, and pay attention when they talk. Ask all the questions you want answered. I was afraid to ask questions the first college I went to visit and it was a big mistake. Have fun!</p>
<p>Absolutely awesome tips, you guys! I never would have thought to do the things that you mentioned, but they do make a lot of sense. Keep em comin', I am really enjoying this thread.</p>