15 essential things to do before your first college visit

Visiting colleges is a great way to figure out where you want to go to school. It helps you see what college life is really like and decide if a place feels right for you. By getting ready for your visit, you can make the most of it and learn more about the schools you’re interested in.

Why a college visit matters

A college visit lets you get a firsthand look at the campus, interact with students and faculty, and sense the overall vibe of the college. This experience can be instrumental in helping you decide if the college is the right fit for you. To ensure your visit is as productive as possible, here's a checklist of 15 essential things you should do before your first college visit.

1. Check out the college’s website

Start by visiting the college’s website. This is where you can learn about what classes they offer, what activities you can join, and what student life is like. You’ll also get a sense of the college’s goals, values, and overall vibe. Knowing a college's focus can help you figure out if the school matches what you’re looking for.

2. Read brochures and catalogs

Next, ask for brochures, catalogs, and any other information the college offers. These materials can give you a better idea of how they support students and what their campus is like. It’s a good way to get details that you might not find online, like special programs or unique campus features.

3. Research programs

If you have an idea of what you want to study, look into the programs or majors that interest you. Find out what classes are required, who the teachers are and what kinds of job opportunities the program might lead to. Knowing this will help you decide if the program fits your career goals.

4. Talk to current students

Talking to students who are currently attending or have graduated from the college can give you real insight into what life is like there. You can ask them about their favorite parts of the campus or what social life is like. Their experiences can help you see if you’d enjoy being a student there.

5. Schedule a campus tour

A campus tour is a great way to see the college in person. Contact the admissions office to book a guided tour. This tour will let you explore the campus, meet students and teachers and ask any questions you have. Many schools offer different types of tours, including ones for transfer students or special visit programs. Pick the one that works best for you.

6. Plan your visit

Make sure to plan your visit carefully. Think about what time of year you’re visiting and what parts of the college you want to see. Working with the admissions office can help you make the most of your time there, ensuring you get to see everything that’s important to you.

7. Visit during the school year

If possible, try to visit during the school year. This way, you can see what the campus is like when classes are in session and students are going about their daily lives. It gives you a more accurate picture of what life would be like if you attended the college.

8. Know your schedule

Before your visit, make sure you know the schedule the college has planned for you. Arrive early in case of any delays and take some time to explore the campus on your own if you can. Being familiar with the schedule will help you feel more comfortable and make the most of your visit.

9. Dress right

Since you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, it’s important to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You want to be able to focus on the visit, not on how tired your feet are. Dress in layers if the weather might change, so you’re always comfortable.

10. Prepare questions

Think about the questions you want to ask during your visit. You might want to know more about the classes, what students do for fun, what support services are available or what clubs and activities you can join. Having a list of questions will ensure you don’t forget to ask something important.

11. Review campus safety

Safety is an important part of choosing a college. Before your visit, learn about the college’s safety rules, what they do in emergencies and what resources are available for students. Knowing this will help you feel secure and understand how the college keeps its students safe.

12. Explore the area

Set aside some time to check out the neighborhood around the college. This will give you a sense of what the local community is like and what amenities are available. Are there restaurants, shops or parks nearby? Knowing the area can help you decide if you’d enjoy living there.

13. Stay open-minded

When you visit, be open to new experiences and opportunities. Attend campus events, visit clubs or organizations and talk to students. This will give you a better idea of the college’s culture and whether it’s a place where you’d feel comfortable and happy.

14. Take notes

During your visit, keep a journal or take notes to remember your thoughts and questions. Writing things down will help you reflect on your experience later and make informed decisions about which college is the best fit for you.

15. Think about your goals

Finally, think about your academic and personal goals and how the college aligns with what you want. Does the school offer the programs, resources and environment that will help you achieve your goals? Considering this will help you decide if the college is right for you.

Remember to gather as much information as you can before your visit. Take pictures, ask questions, and don’t rush. Each visit will bring new discoveries  and exploring the area outside the college can help too. Balancing your academic and personal goals will help you have a great college experience.

Ready to start visiting campuses? Make sure Central Michigan University is on your list. Plan your visit today. We can’t wait to see you.