<p>I guess I've never experienced "wining and dining" by any school - except those in which my kids were accepted - during admit days. And sure, they're going to put on their best face to get the kids they want to enroll. All colleges do that.</p>
<p>I've been to several traveling road shows by groups of selective and less selective schools, and they were fairly spartan events. Talks, slide shows, questions, and a chance to hear how they were similar and different from one another. My kids learned a few things from these events. Maybe not a lot, but enough to cross a few places off their lists.I also didn't hear any oohing and ahhing from the parents or kids - just listening and learning.
It's also not deceptive of them to say they want kids from all over the country; that's a fact.</p>
<pre><code>As far as the tours went, they varied, but we certainly never felt like we they were doing us a favor at any school. Most were led by kids, a couple years older than my own. Their styles were diverse and unpredictable, but that shouldn't be surprising. We always came away with a pretty good feeling about the places we visited, even if they weren't a good fit for my kids.
</code></pre>
<p>I'm sorry, but when a new poster comes on (only two posts), both which make sweeping generalizations about all "elite" colleges, I do suspect one is either a troll, or one really bitter parent.</p>
<p>I also think it's unrealistic to expect professors to engage in visitor's tours. It's possible to go to colleges during their open house days and meet several professors. We tried to do this as much as possible. But the prof's job is teaching the current students, not being available for tours and admission's events.</p>