Before hitting the road...

Because many of you are going to visit colleges over spring break, I wanted to offer a few last minute reminders/suggestions.

• First, please sign in at the admissions office.  You want them to know you were present for the information session and tour. If there's something specific you want to see - like residence halls, art studios, or science labs - ask if you can see them.  If they're not on the tour, at least find the buildings and perhaps you can see them on your own time.
• Take the time to peruse the school's website before you go. Many of the answers to your questions are easily accessible there.  Instead of asking "What's the average class size?" ask "What are the largest classes on campus, and where are they held?" Rather than ask if they have study abroad programs, ask how many students actually study abroad and what countries they typically visit.  You can easily find out whether they have a Greek system, so ask how many students are involved, are their events open to "outsiders," and if you are not interested in Greek life, what does the school do to promote other social activities?  Find out where the central gathering place for students is; that is, if there is one.
• Please, please don't walk at the back of the tour. Walk up front with the tour guide.  She or he is an actual live college student and can provide you with lots of inside information if you'll just ask.
• I highly recommend spending at least a few minutes without your parents.  Go off on your own and see how you feel..
• Take the time to walk or drive around the surrounding community. This might be harder to do if you're visiting, say, Boston University, but get a feel for the place you might call home for four years.

And last but not least, based on both the information you have received and your own gut feeling, keep asking yourself if this is a good fit for you.  Consider these six things: campus culture, academic programs, student life activities, the off-campus environment, the climate for (take your pick): women, students of color, religious beliefs, or cultural background, and your academic profile. In other words, what are the chances you will be admitted.

Remember that your college counselor wants to hear from you when you return to school.  Let us know what you liked and didn't like...that will help us help you better.

Have a great trip, be safe, and enjoy your spring break.