While you are in high school, you should set aside time to visit several of the colleges on your school list. It is important to get an on-campus feel for the colleges you are considering; this is something you typically cannot get from college websites and marketing brochures. The best time to visit college campuses is when they are in session; try to avoid weekends, holidays and summers. It’s ideal to visit during your 10th or 11th grade high school spring break; you want to be sure you have the opportunity to mingle with current students and see the campus in action.

Before you head out on your trip, be sure to check the school’s website or call the Office of Admissions to schedule an appointment and tour; don’t just show unexpectedly, as you may be disappointed to find out that you have limited access to several areas of interest to you. You can also inquire about optional information sessions, overnight stay options, the availability to complete a college interview, and even the opportunity to shadow a current student or sit-in on a class or two.
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Warm sand, cool surf, beach volleyball … oh wait, that’s college spring break.  High school spring break doesn’t quite have the same epic adventure associated with it.  But nonetheless, spring break is coming up which means you probably have a week off of school and are in need of some decent plans.  So what’s a high school student to do?

ROAD TRIP!!

Again, maybe not a made-for-TV-movie road trip, but think about heading out with your folks and visit a few colleges within driving distance*.  I can’t stress enough how important it is to check out campuses.  You will be amazed at how great you might think a school is… and then you set foot on campus.  You’ll see the students, feel the vibe, take a student-lead tour, maybe even sit in on a class, and your entire perspective might change. Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: campus visit, college visits, high school spring break, visiting colleges
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