Page 19 - BICF College Prep 101 Fall 2019

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Top 7 Tips for Successful College Tours By Lorraine Silvia, University Counsellor at BHS Take virtual college tours before you go. Have a view of the campus, meet some college students and learn their perspectives. Get an idea of the culture. Visit during times that students are in regular classes to get an authentic feel for the culture of the school. Talk with students and find out useful information from a student’s point of view. Lunch at one of their dining options and pick up a student publication while on campus. Dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather - in case rain or snow is expected, you want to ensure you have the clothing to enjoy the tour fully. Take a list of questions that you don’t want to forget to ask, such as what kind of financial aid or scholarships they provide, and what college credits you may be able to transfer. Ask about study abroad and work opportunities. Ask about and visit extracurriculars and clubs, university athletics areas and residence options. Take lot of pictures and notes so you can remember points of interest on your tour. Use your phone for notes only and don’t get distracted. Get the contact information of the admissions or enrolment person so you can follow up if you have further questions. Explore the area the college/university is located in. As this will be your home for the next few years, you want to ensure that you also feel comfortable in the area. Include a side-trip visit to a university when taking family vacations. This can be really enlightening for your future college planning. COLLEGE PREP 101 FALL 2019 19