The Ultimate Guide to Making the Most of Your Campus Visits

A Guest Blog by Dawes Academic Consulting, exclusively for GolbenoMinds

Visiting college campuses is one of the most valuable steps in your college admissions journey. It’s your chance to explore academic environments, experience campus life firsthand, and discover where you can truly see yourself thriving for the next four years. To get the most out of each visit, you need a clear plan — before, during, and after stepping onto campus.

This guide from Dawes Academic Consulting walks you through how to prepare, what to do while you’re there, and the most important questions to ask along the way.

✅ Before Your Campus Visit

A productive campus visit starts long before you arrive. Here are essential steps to take beforehand:

1. Reach out to professors

Email a professor in your potential major(s) and ask if you can sit in on a class. This gives you an honest look at teaching styles, course difficulty, and classroom culture.

2. Explore overnight stay options

Many schools allow prospective students to stay overnight with a current student. If you know someone on campus, ask if you can sleep over — even if it’s on the dorm floor. It’s the closest you’ll get to a “real” day in the life.

3. Schedule an admissions interview

If the college offers interviews, book one ahead of time. It’s a great opportunity to express your interest and gather personalized insights.

4. Connect with coaches or program directors

If you’re interested in athletics, performing arts, research labs, or any specialized program, email the relevant coach or faculty member to set up a meeting.

5. Try a solo campus visit

If possible, explore at least one campus on your own. It helps you understand how the environment feels without outside influence from parents or friends.

🚶‍♂️ During Your Campus Visit

Once you arrive, stay curious and explore with intention:

1. Join the official tour and info session

These provide structured insight into academics, student life, housing, and admissions expectations.

2. Visit student spaces

Explore the dining hall, student union, bookstore, library, recreation centers, and academic buildings. Imagine yourself spending time in these places.

3. Check bulletin boards & the student newspaper

This helps you understand campus culture, active clubs, upcoming events, concerns, and student priorities.

4. Talk to current students

Ask what they love most and what they would change about the school. Students are often more honest than brochures.

5. Spend time people-watching

Sit in a common area and observe. Are students talking about classes, ideas, clubs, activities, or social life? Does the vibe feel exciting, stressful, collaborative, or creative?

6. Explore the surrounding community

Check walkability, transportation options, nearby shops, and safety. Consider how easy it is to get home — flights, trains, buses, etc.

✍️ After Your Visit

Reflection is crucial. Here’s how to process your experience thoughtfully:

1. Write down your impressions immediately

Before visiting another school, document what you liked, disliked, and felt — otherwise, visits start to blur together.

2. Avoid jumping to conclusions

One student, one tour guide, or bad weather shouldn’t determine your opinion of a school.

3. Ask your parents or guardians for their impressions

But write your own thoughts down first. Their perspective should support, not shape, your decision.

4. Send thank-you notes

Follow up with professors, coaches, interviewers, or anyone who spent time with you. It builds strong connections and shows professionalism.

5. Take a week to reflect

Give yourself time to sit with your impressions. If a school still feels like a good fit after a few days, that’s a strong sign.

❓ Questions to Ask During Your Campus Visit

Below are some of the most valuable questions to ask during your visit. These help reveal academic rigor, campus culture, and available support.

📚 Course-Related Questions

• How much time do students spend studying each week?

• Are courses challenging and engaging?

• How much writing and reading is expected?

• Do assignments include diverse perspectives?

• How often do students give presentations?

• How quickly do professors return feedback?

🧠 Academic Culture Questions

• Do students collaborate on projects and exam prep?

• Are professors approachable outside of class?

• Do students frequently interact with people from different backgrounds or viewpoints?

🌈 Campus Culture Questions

• How well do students get along?

• Which activities are most popular on campus?

• Are student support services helpful and accessible?

• What wellness and mental-health resources are available?

🎓 Academic & Career Support Questions

• How often do students meet with advisors about majors or careers?

• Are undergraduate research opportunities available?

• How common are internships or off-campus experiences?

• Are study-abroad programs accessible?

• Do students actively use tutoring and writing centers?

• How satisfied are students with academic advising?

🌟 Final Thoughts

A campus visit is more than just a tour — it’s your opportunity to imagine your future. With thoughtful preparation, active observation, and meaningful reflection, you’ll gain clarity and confidence in choosing the right college for you.

A big thank you to Dawes Academic Consulting for contributing this guide for our GolbenoMinds community.

📞 Have Questions About College Admissions or Essay Writing?

Students and families can book a free consultation call with Dawes Academic Consulting to get personalized guidance on:

• the college admissions process

• essay topic selection

• application strategies

• high-impact activities

• and more

  
  

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