If you have a high-schooler on the verge of applying to college, you (or they) have probably spent countless hours scrolling through college websites, watching virtual tours, and maybe even observing students on social media to get a glimpse of campus life. But while these online resources can be helpful for initial impressions, they can only show you so much.

The truth is, nothing compares to actually setting foot on campus and experiencing college firsthand. It’s like the difference between watching a movie trailer and seeing the film. The trailer might give you a taste of the action, but it’s the full experience that truly immerses you in the story.

Interested applicants can read about a college’s state-of-the-art labs, but it’s different to actually stand in one, imagining themselves conducting research alongside professors and fellow students. They can watch videos of smiling students lounging on the quad, but it’s different to walk those paths, feeling the energy and rhythm of campus life.

Campus visits are your child’s chance to go beyond the website and truly understand what it feels like to be a student at that college. They’re an opportunity to:

• Breathe in the Atmosphere: Every college has a unique vibe. Is it bustling and energetic or laid-back and relaxed? Does it feel competitive or collaborative? They can only truly grasp the atmosphere by being there.
• Connect with the Community: Websites can showcase diversity, but a campus visit allows them to witness it firsthand–interact with students from all walks of life, observe how they interact with each other and faculty, and get a sense of whether they’d feel at home in that community.
• Explore Their Academic Interests: Go beyond the course catalog and visit the departments that interest them. Talk to professors, sit in on a class, and explore the resources available to students in their field. This can help them envision themselves pursuing their academic passions at that college.
• Discover Hidden Gems: Websites often highlight the main attractions, but campus visits allow them to uncover hidden gems—a cozy study nook in the library, a vibrant student center, or a beautiful garden tucked away on the grounds. These unexpected discoveries can make a college feel even more special.
• Test the Fit: Ultimately, a campus visit is about testing the fit. Does the college feel right? Can they picture living and learning in that environment for the next four years? Encourage them to trust their gut feeling.

Campus visits are an invaluable part of the college search process. They allow your child to move beyond the digital facade and truly experience what it’s like to be a student at a particular college. So, step away from the screen, lace up some walking shoes, and get ready to explore!

Make the Most of Your Campus Visit

Here are a few tips to help you child maximize their campus visit experience:

Plan Ahead: Don’t just wing it! Schedule your visit in advance if you want to attend an official tour or information session. You can usually book these online through the admissions page of the college website.

• Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with the college beforehand. Understand the basics (size, location, majors offered, and any special programs that pique your interest). Watch virtual tours and explore the website to get a feel for the college. Most importantly, create a list of questions you want answered during your visit.
• Know Your Admissions Rep: This is the person who will be reviewing your application. See if you can meet with them during your visit. They’re great at remembering faces and names, and a quick introduction can make a positive impression.
• Engage with the Community: Talk to current students, faculty, and staff to get their perspectives on the college experience. Ask about dorms, food, clubs, and the overall campus culture.
• Explore Beyond the Tour: Venture off the beaten path and explore areas of interest to you. Visit academic departments, libraries, or athletic facilities. If possible, sit in on a class or attend a club meeting or sporting event.
• Capture Your Impressions: Take notes and photos to help you remember your visit and compare different colleges. Jot down your first impressions and take pictures of things that stand out to you.
• Follow-up: Send thank-you notes to anyone who helped you during your visit, including your tour guide, admissions representative, and any faculty or staff you met with.

Deena Maerowitz is a Partner and College Advisor at The Bertram Group. This article is adapted from The Bertram Group blog, From the Quad.

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