12 reasons to go on a college visit

The college search is more than just browsing websites and reading brochures. Going on college visits and campus tours can breathe life into your decision-making process and be a great reminder of how exciting this new chapter can be!

Read on to learn the many benefits of going on college visits, provide insights for parents and offer tips to make the most of your trip. By the end, you'll understand why stepping foot on campus is valuable and how it can inspire your choices for education, social and living situations.

Why should a prospective student go on a college visit?

Visiting a college campus offers insights that brochures and emails simply can't convey. When you're physically present, you absorb the atmosphere, engage with current students and faculty and get a genuine feel for the place. These experiences provide a realistic glimpse into what your college life may look like.

What students can do on a campus tour:

1. Take in the campus vibes.
2. Talk with students and faculty about their campus experiences.
3. Talk with admission experts about upcoming competitive scholarship opportunities.
4. Explore your individual interests (specific academic programs or community organizations).
5. Check out the academic buildings and dorms.
6. Picture yourself there! Check out the surrounding town for groceries, shopping, restaurants, pharmacy, etc.
   

One benefit of in-person campus visits is the ability to explore resources tailored to your area of interest. Whether it's state-of-the-art labs for budding scientists or fine arts studios for aspiring artists, seeing these facilities first-hand can help you lock in your decision. It's a great way to test if you can see yourself studying there. And, connecting with faculty members can provide an insider's view of academic programs and the support systems available to students.

College visits are also very useful for gathering detailed information about scholarships and the application process. Admissions experts are usually on-hand to answer questions and offer clarity on deadlines and requirements. They'll probably talk about financial aid and scholarship opportunities, too. This direct access can be a game-changer, ensuring you have all the details you need to make informed decisions about your future while making connections that can support you along the way! College visits truly enhance the decision-making process.

Why supporters should visit campus too

Guardians play a pivotal role in the college selection process. Campus tours offer them a chance to evaluate the environment where their student will spend the next four+ years.

Common questions for supporters to investigate:

• Does the campus feel welcoming?
• Are there adequate safety measures in place?
• Will their student be living in a community that cares about them and their success?
  

What guardians can do on a college visit:

1. Assess campus safety.
2. See how basic needs are provided: community, food, living space, laundry, etc.
3. Gather info on personal support resources: health services, mental wellness support.
4. Gather info on academic support: tutoring, research support, office hours, study groups.
5. Check out the surrounding town for places to stay the night and things to do if you plan on visiting your student.
6. Spend some time with your student on a college campus. This is a big step they’re taking – your support is valuable!
   

Visits are a way to assess campus support first-hand. From mental wellness resources and health services to educational resources, knowing what’s accessible will often help ease concerns about care. Many institutions offer supporter-specific sessions during campus tours, highlighting what they do to prioritize student well-being.

Lastly, campus tours allow supporters to envision their student's potential life at college. Observing the surroundings, dining facilities and dorms helps paint a picture of the student experience. This perspective can ease concerns and foster a supportive family environment as students prepare to embark on this new chapter.

Choose a visit type that caters to your needs

Most colleges offer a variety of college visit options:

Choose your own adventure

Explore everything the university has to offer at your own pace with a self-guided tour. With these tours, you'll likely be given a map, a starting point and signs to follow as you navigate campus with your support crew and figure out what stops you want to make.

Seek specific spaces

Some colleges offer tailored experiences for their campus tours. Maybe you want to learn about a specific residence hall, or a specific program? Maybe you want to check out the walkability of campus, how far away student housing is from your classes or what the dining situation is.

Find your niche

Some universities also offer visits made with a group or organization in mind – think honors colleges, leadership programs or organizations that champion diversity and equity in the student body. Not only will you gather details on admissions, deadlines and scholarships – this is the place to be if you really want to see what the community is like.

How to make the most of your college campus visit

Preparation is key to getting the most out of your college visits and campus tours. Come with questions and comfy shoes!

Start by compiling a list of questions tailored to your needs. Consider asking about class sizes, student organizations or internships. Having a prepared list ensures you cover all bases and leave with the information you need.

Make sure you:

• Wear comfy shoes and weather-appropriate clothes.
• Have a few questions ready about what is most important to YOU. Don't hold back.
• Speak up! Take it all in and engage with your surroundings.

Comfort is essential when exploring a campus. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as campus tours often involve a lot of walking. Remember to check the weather forecast beforehand to dress appropriately! It's common for campus tours to include a bag of resources (information on programs they offer, housing, scholarships, deadlines), but it's a good idea to bring a small backpack or draw-string bag on the tour.

Lastly, take advantage of every chance to engage with current students and faculty members during your college visits. They can provide candid insights into daily campus life and academic expectations. Don’t hesitate to ask them about their experiences and any advice they may have for incoming students. Their perspectives can offer a well-rounded understanding of what to expect.

Are college campus tours worth it?

Yes! It provides the sense that your hard work has paid off and turns an unknown place into a potential new home. Visiting a college campus is an exciting step towards your future. The insights and experiences gained during these visits empower you to make informed decisions about your education.

 For those considering a college visit, the summer and fall seasons are the perfect time to take the leap!

Central Michigan University invites YOU to schedule a college visit and experience the vibrant community first-hand. They offer several special visit options, including tours just for transfer students and high school groups.

Do you want the general tour, or one that dives right into the program and college you're interested in? There's a special visit for that, too.

Discover the resources, support and opportunities awaiting you. Ready to explore your future campus? Schedule your visit with Central Michigan University today and take the first step toward your college adventure.