Which campus visit is right for you?

Visiting a college is one of the best ways to see if it feels right for you. Whether you're visiting a large university or a smaller college, the type of visit you choose can make all the difference. Traditional tours give you a brief overview, open houses provide more details and personal visits let you meet faculty and explore programs in depth.

Traditional campus tours: The classic starting point

Campus tours are one of the most popular ways to explore a school. Led by a student ambassador, these tours take you through key spots on campus, like academic buildings, dorms and dining areas. They provide a great overview of the school and give you a feel for student life.

While traditional tours are a solid introduction, they’re often fast-paced. You won’t have time to see every corner of the campus, but you’ll get a strong sense of the community. It’s a great way to start narrowing down your options.

Benefits

• Authentic view of daily campus life.
• Structured route to see key areas.
• Group setting makes it easy to feel comfortable.

Drawbacks

• Limited one-on-one time with faculty or staff.
• May not include every area of the campus.
• Availability can be limited during busy seasons like spring and fall breaks.

Explore, get the full picture with open house events

Open houses offer an all-day experience, letting you explore the school in depth. You’ll attend presentations, take tours and meet current students and professors. These events provide useful information, making them perfect for those who want to get a lot done in a short time.

The energy at an open house is exciting. It gives you a chance to explore academic programs and services in one day. It’s a fast-paced experience, but you’ll walk away with a solid understanding of what the school has to offer. By the end of the day, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether this is the right place for you.

Benefits

• Access to a variety of support services and staff.
• Learn about housing, academics and extracurricular activities.
• High-energy atmosphere for meeting other potential students.

Drawbacks

• Large crowds can make it harder to ask questions.
• The schedule’s full, so there’s little time to explore activities beyond the planned sessions. It’s tough to get a true feel for daily campus life with so many people around.
  

Personal visits: A tailored experience

Personal visits are ideal for those who want a more customized experience. You’ll typically get a private tour, meet with admissions staff or even sit down with faculty in your area of interest. This option lets you explore at your own pace and focus on the aspects of campus life that matter most to you.

Personal visits are perfect if you're looking for more in-depth interactions. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, explore specific academic programs and gain a deeper understanding of the school’s offerings. While these visits may take a little more time and planning, they can be incredibly rewarding.

Benefits

• Spend one-on-one time with faculty, staff or admissions counselors.
• Tailored experience focused on your academic interests.
• Individual support ensures you get all your questions answered.

Drawbacks

• Requires scheduling in advance and may have limited availability.
• Travel expenses can increase the overall cost of the visit.
• Lacks the buzz and excitement of a larger group event but still offers an enriching experience.
  

Self-guided tours: Explore at your own pace

Self-guided tours provide the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to explore the campus independently. Many schools offer self-guided tours through apps or downloadable maps, so you can visit at your convenience and focus on the areas that interest you most. These tours let you set your own pace and take as much time as you need.

This type of visit works well for independent students who enjoy exploring on their own terms. You’ll have the freedom to visit specific locations and take your time without the constraints of a set schedule. However, keep in mind that self-guided tours don’t offer the chance for questions or detailed insights from faculty or staff.

Benefits

• Total flexibility to visit when it suits you.
• No pressure to follow a set route or keep pace with a group.
• Low cost, especially for local students.

Drawbacks

• Limited support from staff or faculty for questions.
• No guided insights into the areas you’re visiting.
• May not provide the same authentic campus experience as a group tour.
  

Time, cost and planning: What to keep in mind

When choosing a campus visit, it’s important to consider your schedule, budget and what you’re hoping to learn during the visit. Each type of visit has its own time commitment and associated costs, so it’s good to plan ahead. Here’s a quick comparison of the options:

Pro tip: Mixing visit types for the best experience

Mixing visit types can give you a more well-rounded experience. Start with an open house for a broad overview, then follow up with a personal visit to meet faculty and learn more about specific academic interests. This approach helps you understand what the school has to offer.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right campus visit is an important step in your college decision process. Each visit offers different insights, whether you’re seeking a general overview or a more personalized experience. Consider what matters most to you—whether it’s gaining specific academic info or simply getting a feel for campus life.

Central Michigan University, with its vibrant community, may offer a very different experience compared to other campuses, which could be a factor in your decision. Whichever visit type you choose, think about how it will help you make an informed decision. Whether you need support or want to immerse yourself in student life, there’s a visit option for everyone. Take the time to choose what best fits your needs.