What to Bring to College Visits
It’s about that time for seniors (and some juniors) to get ready for fall college visits!
Below are my recommendations for what to bring on college visits, and what to leave at home. This goes for travel that is intentionally for college visits, or if you’re in the area for another reason and decide to stop by the nearby campus.
What to Bring
Camera: Yes, most of us have cameras on our phones. But to make the most of it, don’t forget to actually take pictures when you’re there! Schools and visits can blur together and it’s difficult to remember which school had this student union and which one had that rec center. Especially if you are visiting multiple schools in one trip, I recommend taking a photo of a sign or something with the college’s name as the first photo. That way, you know that the next group of photos is from that particular school.
Comfortable shoes: This might go without saying, but you’ll be walking around campus for at least an hour, if not longer. There might be stairs and hills on your tour and you might want to walk around to check out additional areas once the tour is over.
Something for notes: Whether it’s an app on your phone or a traditional notebook and paper, make sure you bring something that you’re comfortable with taking down bullet point-style notes to remember things you deem important. These are notes you’ll definitely refer back to later (especially when differentiating between schools!) so don’t hesitate to write scribble things down.
A campus visit checklist: Before you leave, do some research and make a list of the “must see” areas on each campus. You might want to visit a building where students with your future major takes a lot of classes, a place of worship (if applicable), and the student rec center.
Your appetite: I definitely recommend eating in the student union or dining hall while you’re on campus. At the very least, check out the city’s downtown area or restaurants that are near campus. Eat like you would if you were a student there!
An open mind: Okay, I’m cheesy! But in all seriousness, it is so important to walk on to each college campus with an open and clear mind. Maybe your counselor or consultant encouraged you to visit this school, or your mom wanted to stop by - but you never know what it could be! You might be surprised.
What Not to Bring
Crop tops, ripped jeans, shorty shorts, etc.: I know a college visit isn’t an interview, and I’m not saying you have to dress up, but I can’t tell you how many college tours I’ve been on where I’ve just been a little mortified for a student or two. Showing lots of skin or not putting thought into how you present yourself does not send the best message to the admissions office.
Items with another college’s name on it: You’d think this is a no-brainer, but it happens more often than you’d think! For similar reasons to the above, leave the college-branded hat, sweatshirt, or notebook at home for this trip.
Headphones: You might get through classes in high school with an earbud in one ear, but this does not send the right message to admissions officers. It is rude to sit in a presentation or go on a campus tour when you’re half listening to the guide and half listening to music.
Your posse: This isn’t the time to bring your cousin, her son, his babysitter, and your best friend who has no interest in the school. Bring those who might help you make your decision, like a parent (or both) and maybe a sibling if they’re on the trip with you.
This is an exciting time for not only the student, but the entire family. Physically being on a college campus can really impact your college list, and ultimately, your decision. Be sure to prepare accordingly so you are in the right mindset and making the best impression!