By Molly Weisner
As summer break nears, many a high school student is packing college brochures and walking shoes instead of resort passes and strappy sandals. Though not a balmy traipse on an exotic beach, campus tours are still an adventure that makes the step between high school and college more manageable. Whether or not you have a particular school in mind, campus tours are a great way to experience the unique ‘vibe’ of a college campus.
Schedule a Tour
Though many colleges boast the accessibility of an ‘open campus,’ scheduling a tour organized by the school itself will enhance the structure and depth of your campus visit. Many universities hire their students as tour guides, which allows for open dialogue with real students that can share true-to-life perspectives. Additionally, tours sometimes include visits inside residential halls, which a normal passerby would not be able to access without a key.
Know What Questions to Ask
If your guide knows what he’s talking about, then you should get a well-rounded overview of the college’s amenities, layout, academic programs, and athletics. However, each student is looking for something different, so personalize your experience by asking questions that pertain to your scope of interest. For example, if you’re looking to major in a STEM field, ask about the school’s lab or research grants, especially for undergraduates. But if you’re looking to sing a capella, inquire about the performing groups on campus. And if you’re not sure what activities you want to get involved with, just ask your guide about some of the recreational things they do! Asking specific questions will help you gauge how well the school caters to your interests.
Dress Code: TBD
Most guides to campus tours omit the very real dilemma that is “What do I wear?” Depending on the season and the ‘formality’ of your trip, your wardrobe can range from comfortable and breezy to professional and clean-cut. If you’re planning on interviewing while visiting a campus, dressing business-casual never hurts. You have to remember that all aspects of you interview, including the way you present yourself, might be taken into consideration. Giving yourself a little boost, even if it’s just for confidence’s sake, can only help your case. On the other side of the spectrum, if you know you will just walk the campus or take a tour, dress however the weather and your comfort-level see fit.
Explore the College Town
Just because you’re in D.C. to visit Georgetown, doesn’t mean you should ignore the surrounding city! Each college is, of course, cradled by its ‘college town’--or the real surroundings that give its location character. Schedule some time before or after your tour to walk the infamous street that is lined with restaurants and shops, or visit the park at which all the college kids love to picnic. The surroundings of the school itself are just as important because you want to be somewhere that is safe, diverse, and full of things to do.
Comments