Beyond the Brochure: Why College Visits Matter More Than You Think (Part 2)
You’ve done the research, scrolled through websites, and maybe even attended a virtual info session. But stepping onto a college campus is a completely different experience. The atmosphere, the people, and the unspoken energy of a place can’t be captured in a brochure.
Consider this: Imagine visiting a school that checks all the boxes academically but realizing that students don’t really hang out on campus, or the energy feels too competitive for your liking. On the flip side, you might visit a college you weren’t even considering and instantly connect with its vibe. College visits help you experience rather than just read about a school—giving you a much clearer sense of whether it’s the right place for you.
1. Map Out Your Must-See Schools
By now, you’ve probably built a list of potential colleges, but which ones truly deserve an in-person visit? Take some time to map out your top choices and check their websites for tour options. Many schools now offer both in-person and virtual experiences, allowing you to get a feel for campus before setting foot there.
Pro tip: Start with a virtual student-led tour to get a feel for campus life before visiting in person. Schools like Stanford University and the University of Chicago offer immersive previews, while NYU and USC take it a step further with live, interactive tours hosted by current students.
Think about what matters most to you. Academics? Campus vibe? Sports? Research clubs, dining halls, and dorm options.
Plan efficiently. If visiting multiple schools, group them by region to maximize your trip.
Take advantage of virtual options. Some schools offer 360° VR campus tours or student Q&As on social media, giving you insight without the travel.
2. Time It Right: Catch the Campus Energy
When you visit matters just as much as where you go. The goal is to experience the school when it’s buzzing with student life—not when it’s empty during break.
Go on a regular class day. Mid-week visits are best if you want to see students in action.
Avoid exam weeks and breaks. Midterms and finals can make campuses feel tense and unwelcoming—not the best time to evaluate the vibe.
3. Be More Than a Tourist—Engage!
A campus visit isn’t just about taking a tour—it’s about immersing yourself in the school’s environment.
Talk to students. Ask about their experiences, favorite study spots, and campus culture. You’ll get more honest insights than any brochure could offer.
Meet with professors. If you’re interested in a particular major, try to schedule a quick meeting or sit in on a class.
Stop by the admissions office. Introduce yourself to an admissions officer and ask any lingering questions about the process. A simple introduction can help put a face to your application when decisions are made.
Explore beyond the official tour. Visit dorms, dining halls, and club meetings. Grab a coffee and people-watch! You’ll get a better feel for the school’s culture.
4. Capture the Experience
After multiple visits, details can blur together. Keep track of what stood out!
Take notes on your phone about your first impressions.
Snap photos of key areas you loved—or didn’t love.
Record voice memos of quick reflections to help with your decision-making later.
The Latest Trends in College Visits
Hybrid Visits Are Here to Stay. Many students now start with virtual tours before visiting in person. Some colleges like University of Minnesota even offer 360° VR tours, student-led Instagram takeovers, or live Zoom Q&As with current students.
Student Influencers Are a Thing. Schools like UCLA and Boston University have student-run YouTube channels and TikToks where you can get an unfiltered look at life on campus.
Themed Visit Days. Some schools are making campus visits more engaging with themed events like “STEM Exploration Days” or “Social Impact Weekends,” letting students dive into specific interests.
Self-Guided Tours on Apps. Some colleges offer GPS-based self-guided tours, allowing students to explore campus at their own pace—even outside official tour hours.
Making The Most of Your College Visit
Once you’ve visited a few colleges, use those experiences to strengthen your application:
Personalize your essays. Instead of generic statements like “I love the strong academics,” mention specific moments from your visit: “Watching a political science debate on the quad, I knew this was where I wanted to challenge my thinking.”
Ace your interviews. If you met a student who raved about the school’s internship program, bring that up in your interview to show you did your research.
Follow up with admissions officers. If you introduced yourself during your visit, send a short thank-you email to remind them of your conversation. A simple follow-up can help keep you memorable!
Compare your options. Your visit notes will help you determine which college truly aligns with your goals.
At the end of the day, a college visit isn’t just about seeing buildings—it’s about finding the place where you’ll grow, learn, and feel at home. Plan ahead, engage fully, and trust your instincts. If a campus feels like “you,” that’s a great sign!
Missed Part 1? Check out Beyond the Brochure: Why College Visits Matter More Than You Think (Part 1) to learn about why college visits matter and how they can strengthen your application.
Need expert guidance on your college journey? Ivy Link works with students as early as 8th grade to help them build a strong profile and gain admission to top universities. Schedule a consultation today and take the next step toward your dream college!
