<p>At this point, the University of Chicago is one of my top choices. However, I live in California. According to the application qualifications on collegeview.com, a campus visit is recommended and an interview is optional. How important are these really? I've been busy working and studying all summer, when I'm not at cross country practice, and I've been saving money for college, but I'm wondering if I should also be considering a campus visit. Opinions, particularly from those of you who have already gone through this process would be much appreciated.
Thanks.</p>
<p>You probably shouldn’t worry about the visit until after you are accepted, unless you are very interested in seeing the school. Not traveling a couple thousand miles wouldn’t be held against you.</p>
<p>If they do alumni interviews, you might want to try setting up one of those, especially if you have questions.</p>
<p>According to CollegeBoard, “level of applicant’s interest” and “interview” are only “considered.” They might take a visit or interview into account, but it’s not the end of the world if you can’t manage them.</p>
<p>University of Chicago is a unique place and, if you might apply early action, you will have an easier time writing the “why Chicago” essay if you have been there. It might be a VERY slight advantage to visit, so it depends how likely it is for you and how much you care about it. (If it’s quite a reach anyway I might not bother. I would be more inclined if it’s a high match.) Maybe you could see Northwestern or Wash. U while you’re in the midwest…Bottom line, I guess, don’t worry too much about it.</p>
<p>I suggest contacting the admissions office and asking if they can put you in contact with current students home for the summer that live in your area so you can meet for coffee. Since you’re in CA the odds are good there are some students nearby, at least if you live near a larger urban area. This would show interest, and when you meet with them you can get to understand the unique nature of U of C better.</p>
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<p>+1 – Any essay will easier to write if one has made the visit - You can write more confidently about what you appreciate about and can contribute to the school. Officials at one major school have told me as well that (their words) “A presence made and an interest shown” is always helpful for admission. While this is only one school, I suspect that it is the case more often than not.</p>
<p>it looks like i will be able to go visit! any advice about what to see besides campus tour?</p>
<p>any good book about college admissions has a chapter on what to look for and ask about on a college visit. One such book, for example, is “Admission Matters”</p>