<p>Any tips to touring large universities all on your own? My family is just in the area so we didn't have time to plan visits. We're looking at self guided tours at UIUC, Purdue and Bradley University, if that helps.</p>
<p>I’d recommend getting a map of the school from the visitor’s center and then just walk around. The great thing about a self-guided tour is that you can visit the things YOU want to see, so if you hate sports and love science, head for the science center instead of the stadium. Unfortunately, you’ll miss out on the insights revealed by student tour guides, so take some time on your self-guided tour to approach random students and ask them questions. In my experience, most will be happy to help!</p>
<p>One idea is to see where the dorms are relative to your projected classes. The walk/ride can be pretty substantial at some of the larger state schools.</p>
<p>Use their website to go on any “virtual tours” of the campus ahead of time. It might help you focus your time and energy when on the on-site tour. And you can print the campus maps in case you visit when the admissions office is closed.</p>