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The Wisdom of Early Campus Visits
There are advantages to visiting local colleges before heading out on a broader tour
Even at the start of a busy school year, it's smart to block out some time for touring local campuses to get a taste of their location, size, and vibe. Your early feedback will be helpful later on as you plan a good-fit list of colleges. Early and late fall often offer lovely days for campus visits!
Starting your college search early is a sure-fire way to reduce stress, make informed decisions, and ultimately find the best fit for your needs. While it's tempting to jump right into planning a cross-country college tour, starting with local colleges offers several distinct advantages. Here are some compelling reasons to prioritize local college visits before venturing further afield:
1. Get a feel for fit:
For many high schoolers who have never visited a college campus, the idea of living and studying away from home can seem like a vague concept. Setting foot on campuses close to home is a great way to start getting a feel for what college life is like.
Visiting local colleges provides an opportunity to compare and contrast different academic environments and campus cultures without the distractions of novelty and excitement that often accompany out-of-state visits. This helps you develop a more realistic and grounded understanding of what you seek in a college experience.
2. Reduced stress:
Starting your college research early can help you reduce stress and anxiety throughout the process. By giving yourself plenty of time to research and plan, you will have a head start on a list of good-fit schools to apply to come senior year.
3. Cost-effectiveness:
Local college visits are generally more cost-effective than premature distant tours, saving you money on travel expenses, accommodations and meals. This allows you to allocate more resources towards visiting a broader range of colleges when you are ready to expand your search beyond your local area.
4. Gain a better sense of your needs:
Has the idea of college always meant a larger school with a big sports culture? Or have you envisioned yourself at a cozy liberal arts college that emphasizes strong connections with faculty and students, both in and out of the classroom? Would you be happier attending college in a big city, or might you prefer a quieter suburban or rural setting?
5. Ample time for research:
The college application process can be time-consuming, so by researching colleges early you can take your time to gain a feel for different types of college and university environments, comparing their size, location, and campus culture.
Conclusion:
Sampling local colleges early on can be a great way to start your college process so that it is more targeted and ultimately successful. By taking the time to research your options, you will develop a sense of the types of college environments that are the best fit for your needs and goals.
Marla Platt, M.B.A. is an independent college consultant based in Sudbury, MA through AchieveCoach College Consulting, providing expert and personalized guidance to students and families throughout the college planning, search and admissions process. Marla is a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and can be reached via www.achievecoach.com
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