There is no doubt that the campus visit can often be one of the biggest determining factors for students in their college selection process.  Admission counselors, guidance counselors, and parents stress the importance of visiting the colleges you are interested in so that you can make a more informed decision in April of your senior year.  In order to get the most out of your campus visits, however, it is important to be prepared.  By following these simple steps, you will be on your way to productive, informative campus visits.

1. Do your homework:  Before you even think about setting foot on any campus, make a list of all the different things you are looking for in a college.  For instance, determine what size and location would best suit you; what majors or programs you are interested in; and what type of social life and extracurricular activities you may want to particpate in.  Identify what factors are most important to you and then focus on visiting schools that match your criteria.
2. Read college publications & brochures:  Once you have identified what's important to you and you have chosen a number of colleges to visit, read up on each particular institution.  By doing so, you will be more informed about what the college has to offer and can think about good questions you would like answered on your visit.
3. Schedule your trip:  Decide what time works best for you and your family, and then call ahead to see what types of programs are offered at each college and more importantly when they are offered.  You wouldn't want to show up on campus and have no one to talk to!
4. Take notes & pictures:  Be sure to pack the camera, and some pens and paper for each visit.  After touring many different colleges, it can be difficult to distinguish one from another.  By taking notes, you will have a written summary for each campus you visit and these notes may trigger other memories of your visit when you reread them.  Taking pictures is another great way to remember each visit, particularly if you are visiting a campus far away from your home.  You may not get the opportunity to walk around that campus again when you are trying to make your decision so seize the chance to capture the moment!
5. Talk to people:  Always ask questions when you visit campuses and don't leave until you've gotten them answered.  Take advantage of any opportunity to speak with current students, faculty members or admission counselors.  If possible, get specific contact information from the individuals you speak with in case you think of any questions once you're home.
6. Wander:  While you will get great information from the admission staff and students that work there, try to take extra time to talk to other people on the campus as well.  Approach students in the Student Center or other parts of campus to get a feel for all student impressions.  It will help to gain a truly balanced picture of the campus.  It is always difficult to be one or two people speaking for 3,800!  Try to hear as many stories and perspectives as you can.

The campus visit is a valuable way to determine whether a college will be a good match for you, and by preparing ahead of time you will be able to make the most of the time you spend on college campuses.  So get started early and begin planning your campus visits!