Have you considered where you want to head off for college? What are you looking for in a college?  If you don’t have answers to these questions, it’s ok! But, you should start thinking about them. It is very important to visit colleges if you are planning to attend one. You don’t want to go to a school you will end up disliking. Four years is a big commitment whether you are staying close to home or out of state. So, you need to make sure the college you attend has all the qualities you want in a school. 

Here are three reasons why I believe you should start touring colleges as a student:

Reason 1: Determine your ideal college

 Visiting different campuses is an essential part of your college search process. This will help you become familiar with the colleges you are most interested in, and guide you to find the school that best fits your unique needs. For example, by exploring a college in a suburban area or large city you might be able to decide which one is more convenient for you. Visiting a small college may help you realize you enjoy institutions with a larger student population. So, touring a variety of schools will help you determine which qualities matter to you the most. 

With this insight, you can clarify what you’re looking for in a college and decide which schools to apply to and ultimately enroll in. 

Reason 2: Get a better sense of what colleges are looking for in students

Students won’t start working on their college applications until the summer before their senior year at the earliest. Visiting a college and talking to admission counselors before you apply can help you gauge what the college is looking for in its applicants. You will have plenty of time to tailor the resume or essay proportions of your application for that particular college. 

Reason 3: Find out what it will take to succeed at different colleges 

Success in college isn’t all about the educational factors, every school has its own campus culture and the way their classes are constructed. Plus, a community around a certain campus varies. Visiting early will allow you to answer these three questions; Can I see myself fitting in with the students around the campus? Is the school located in the middle of a city that I can’t afford right now? Can I see myself spending the next four years of my life here? 

Once you’ve seen college campuses and had a little taste of the college scene you’ll be motivated to finish strong and keep your grades high. It will allow you to plan and give yourself time to put much thought into your college application. 

Starting to explore these options throughout your high school years will make your senior year go smoothly!