Although applying to college may be stressful, a lot of fun things come with it, including visiting college campuses. You can surf the web as much as you want, but the only way to truly get a feel for a school is a campus visit. Visiting a school can be a great way to learn if it’s a good fit or not. The following are great ways to get the most out of a campus visit. 

1.Visit during the school year 

Visiting when classes are in session is the best way to get a sense of what student life is like on campus. It also gives you the opportunity to ask students questions about the school. 

2. Take the campus tour

Official campus tours give the college the opportunity to show you the coolest features of the school. The tour will also give you a sense of campus traditions and history. 

3. Explore the campus on your own

The campus tour will probably not include the college’s less than ideal features so it’s important to explore on your own to get an accurate feel for the campus. This involves talking to current students! 

4. Stay overnight. 

Many schools offer overnight programs where a college student can host a prospective student. Staying overnight is a great way to see the dorms and learn the in and outs of housing on campus. 

5. Visit a class or two

If you can, try to sit in on a class or two to get a feel for academics at the college. After all, you are going to college to learn, and sitting in on a class (especially one related to your interests) can help you figure out if you can really envision yourself going there. 

6. Eat at the cafeteria

When it comes to food, it’s always a good idea to try it out for yourself rather than just taking your tour guide’s word for it. 

7. Keep a record of your visit 

After a couple of campus visits, it can be difficult to keep everything straight in your head. By taking notes during the visit and writing done what you liked and didn’t like, you can easily compare colleges and figure out the place you like the most. 

All in all, visiting a college is the best way to understand the community and campus. If you follow the tips above you’ll be able to make the most out of your visit and hopefully, figure out if you can see yourself going there.