Exploring University Tours: Are Current Students Still Interested?

Visiting a college campus is a crucial step in the college search process, allowing prospective students to determine if the college is the right fit for them. While college tours are typically associated with prospective students and their families, it's worth asking: do current college students also participate in campus tours? The answer is yes, and there are several reasons why current students might find themselves touring universities. Firstly, current students may be interested in transferring to another college and exploring other options. Additionally, current students may accompany prospective students as tour guides, providing valuable insights and perspectives to those considering attending their college. Furthermore, current students might revisit their own college during accepted students' weekends to relive the experience and solidify their decision. Lastly, current students may simply be curious about other colleges and want to explore different campuses for personal interest or to compare their experiences.

Self-guided tours

When planning a self-guided tour, it is important to visit the college's admissions website to get details about arranging an in-person visit. Some colleges may require advance registration, especially if they offer booklets or audio tours to enhance the self-guided experience. For example, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides an accompanying song playlist to listen to while driving around campus.

During a self-guided tour, students can typically visit the main parts of the campus, including academic buildings, dining halls, and dormitories. They may also have the opportunity to meet with professors, admissions officers, or financial aid officers, attend club meetings or sports practices, and eat in the dining hall.

It is recommended that students prepare for their self-guided tour by reviewing the college's website, making a list of questions to ask, and exploring the campus map to get a sense of the layout. Taking notes and pictures during the tour can also help students remember their impressions and experiences.

Virtual tours

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way high school students learn about prospective colleges. In-person visits to campuses are no longer possible for many, so virtual tours have become an increasingly popular alternative. These allow students to explore out-of-state options without needing to travel, while colleges are able to expand their reach.

Many colleges now offer virtual tours, either on their own websites or via third-party platforms. For example, the National Association for College Admission Counseling provides information from more than 1,000 colleges and universities on changes to admissions processes resulting from the pandemic, including links to virtual tours. StriveScan is another platform that offers virtual tours, as well as advice on how to write a college essay and apply for financial aid.

Some colleges are also using videoconferencing platforms to welcome prospective students. For example, Davidson College in North Carolina is using Zoom to offer 60-minute live information sessions and guided campus tours led by current students.

Overnight stays

Many colleges offer overnight stays, usually during the week, and sometimes specifically in the spring. Prospective students are often paired with a current student and allowed to shadow them for a day. This gives them the chance to meet other college students, eat at the cafeteria, check out hangout spots on campus, and attend a lecture or campus-wide event. They can also ask current students questions about their experiences, such as why they chose the college, what their favourite part of college life is, and how many hours they study each week.

To prepare for an overnight stay, it's important to plan ahead. Prospective students should contact the admissions office to schedule their visit and ask about any necessary preparations. They may also want to research the college and decide on specific things they want to experience during their stay, such as attending a class, a basketball game, or eating in the cafeteria. It's also a good idea to bring a notebook and pen to jot down impressions of the college and any questions that come up during the visit.

While overnight stays can be extremely valuable, they are not always feasible or necessary for everyone. Some students may have scheduling or financial constraints that make it difficult to arrange an overnight visit. In such cases, other types of campus visits, such as virtual tours or open houses, can still provide valuable insights into college life.

Group tours

To make the most of a group tour, it is advisable to come prepared with a list of questions for both staff and current students. Taking notes and pictures during the tour can also help in remembering important details and making informed decisions about the college choices. Additionally, comparing different colleges visited using a Campus Visit Score Card can provide a comprehensive overview of each institution.

Campus life and culture

Campus visits are an important part of the college selection process, allowing prospective students to experience the campus environment and evaluate if it aligns with their expectations and needs. During these visits, students can gain valuable insights into campus life and culture, which can greatly influence their overall college experience.

Understanding Campus Life

Prospective students can learn about campus life through various types of campus tours, including guided, self-guided, or virtual tours. These tours typically include visits to academic buildings, dining halls, and dormitories, providing a glimpse of daily student life. Many colleges also offer overnight stays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the campus environment and experience student life firsthand.

Interacting with Current Students

Interacting with current students is an invaluable aspect of campus visits. Many tours are led by current students, providing an opportunity for prospective students to ask questions and gain honest insights into campus culture and student life. Some colleges even offer programs that pair prospective students with current students, allowing them to shadow their hosts for a day and experience a typical day in the life of a student.

Exploring Campus Amenities

Campus visits also involve exploring the amenities and facilities available on campus. This includes visiting libraries, lecture halls, gymnasiums, stadiums, student unions, and bookstores. Prospective students can assess the quality of these facilities and imagine themselves utilising these spaces for their academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Experiencing Campus Atmosphere

Beyond the physical infrastructure, campus visits allow students to absorb the atmosphere and overall vibe of the institution. By spending time on campus, they can sense the energy and engagement of the student body and faculty. This can include observing student interactions, witnessing campus events, and participating in open houses or presentations to gain a deeper understanding of campus culture.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, campus visits empower prospective students to make informed decisions about their college choice. By experiencing campus life and culture firsthand, students can determine if the institution aligns with their academic, social, and personal aspirations. This ensures that they choose a college that not only meets their educational goals but also provides an environment where they can thrive and have a fulfilling college experience.

In conclusion, campus life and culture play a pivotal role in the college selection process. Campus visits offer prospective students a comprehensive understanding of the institution, allowing them to evaluate not just the academic offerings but also the social, cultural, and environmental aspects that will shape their college years.

Frequently asked questions