Going on a College Tour?
College tours are an important part of the college application process. This month we provide some suggestions to help you and your teenager take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
Checking out the website is a great starting point and will help your daughter rule a college in or out. Some websites even have student blogs that offer a unique insider’s view. Various criteria should be considered including how competitive the school is, location (urban, suburban, or rural), proximity to home, religious affiliation, single-sex institution, and the size of the school.
Once your teen has narrowed down the list of prospective schools, find out each one’s policy regarding information sessions and campus tours and at what times and days of the week they are offered. Many schools require advance registration either by email or by phone. Let your son or daughter make the appointments - this helps them take ownership of the process. If a school conducts interviews, have him or her schedule that also. (Be sure to dress appropriately for an interview.
* Organize the itinerary. Limit yourself to visiting not more than two colleges on the same day - more than that can be overwhelming. Allow time to visit the surrounding area since that too will be a part of your child’s college experience. * Leave much younger siblings behind if at all possible. Make other arrangements for your younger children who may grow fidgety during information sessions and may not be able to keep up with the often brisk pace of campus tours.*Brainstorm with your son or daughter about questions
they may want to ask the admissions personnel or the campus tour guides. Encourage your teen to take notes during the information session.* Parents, try to take a back seat. Let your son introduce himself to the college admissions rep and ask questions after the information session. If your son is having an interview with the admissions office, let him be the one to check in with the receptionist.
* Be curious. Explore the campus after the tour is over. Check out the student union or have coffee at a campus café. Walk over to the playing fields or stadium. Stop by the academic department that interests you. Strike up a conversation with a student (even if it is just to ask directions) so that you can open the door to asking him about his major, whether he lives on or off-campus, the social life on campus, athletics, the neighboring community, etc.
*Last, but not least, have fun!These road trips present a unique opportunity to bond with your teen as she considers her options and faces important decisions about her future.
