A college advisor’s plan for an effective campus tour | College Connection

Students thinking ahead to their college experience should start visiting prospective schools early in their high school years.

Touring colleges, in person, serves two very important purposes. First, students absorb the ambiance of the college community while gaining information to determine if their academic goals would be met. Second, they show “demonstrated interest” – a key quality in increasing one’s chances of gaining admission.

Colleges know that most students apply to a multitude of schools. In deciding who to accept, admission officers gauge demonstrated interest to try to determine which students would most likely enroll, if given the opportunity.

Colleges are ranked, in part, on their “yield” – the percent of accepted students who enroll. So, students who visit the campus and write personalized essays proclaiming their interest in the college, often have a distinct advantage.

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Students should start touring colleges well in advance of their senior year as there is a limited “ideal” time frame. It’s best to visit when school is in session to observe, and interact with, current students. Summer visits are least helpful as regular classes are not in session and the people populating the campus – for pre-college summer camps or business events – do not reflect the student body.

Typically, high school students find that their April spring break is a convenient time to tour colleges which tend to schedule a March spring break. Teacher convention days in November, and other school holidays, can also be put to good use.

Students should always schedule their visits with the college admissions office so there is a record on file. Most colleges offer daily weekday tours both in the morning and afternoon, but some schools (like NYU) do fill up well in advance.

When touring a school, students and parents should feel free to ask their tour guide any questions that come to mind. Also, collect academic information on the student’s potential major and ask to see the pertinent classrooms, laboratories and other relevant facilities.

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While you’ll likely get a brief look at the dining hall and campus center during the tour, return to it later. Check out the food offerings, and perhaps have a meal. Be sure that there are sufficient options for any dietary restriction: kosher, vegan, gluten free. Take a copy of the school newspaper to read about the issues on campus and the topics that students find relevant.

Take notes during the tour, so if you do end up applying, you’ll be able to include information in your essay about why you’re attracted to the school – thus showing demonstrated interest!

Susan Alaimo is the founder & director of Collegebound Review, offering PSAT/SAT® preparation & private college advising by Ivy League educated instructors. Visit CollegeboundReview.com or call 908-369-5362.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: College tour tips from an expert