Each year, our admission counselors travel to high schools to meet students like you and share information about applying to college. Here are some tips to help you make the most of a college’s visit to your school:
Take Materials Home with You
Don’t leave empty-handed! College brochures, viewbooks and other handouts have useful information you can check later. They cover topics like application dates, campus highlights, academic programs and contact details. When you get home, spend a few minutes looking through what you picked up. You might find a major, program or opportunity you hadn’t thought about before.
Familiarize Yourself with Application Information
Applying to college involves a lot of deadlines and requirements. A high school visit is a great opportunity to hear directly from an admission counselor about how the application process works. You’ll find out about deadlines, required documents, scholarships and what to expect during the admissions cycle. Getting this information early can help you stay organized and feel less stressed when it’s time to apply.
Learn About What Makes Each College Different
While every university has majors, clubs, and traditions, each campus has its own personality. During a high school visit, you’ll hear firsthand about what makes a college distinctive. From interdisciplinary opportunities to involvement and location, these visits will give you a better understanding of what it’s actually like to be a student at that school. These conversations can help you determine whether a certain college is the right fit for your goals and interests.
Ask Any Questions You Might Have
You’ve probably spent time browsing college websites or watching videos online. Those resources are great, but sometimes you just want to ask someone directly. High school visits give you the chance to ask questions about academic opportunities, campus life, financial aid, student organizations, research opportunities, studying abroad or the application process. Chances are, if you’re wondering about something, someone else in the room is too. Don’t worry about asking the “perfect” question. Admission counselors are there to help, and they’re excited to connect with students who are curious about their school.
Get Excited About the Application Process
Applying to college can seem overwhelming, but meeting admission counselors in person can make it feel much more approachable. Hearing about campus traditions, student life and academic opportunities can help you picture yourself as a college student. You’ll leave with a clearer sense of your options and, hopefully, a bit more excitement.
College visits aren’t just about gathering information. They are about discovering places where you can see yourself growing, thriving and finding your community. So, the next time a college visits your high school, stop by and say hello. We look forward to meeting you and helping you take the next step in your college search!
Written by: Lucy Jordan, Assistant Director – USC Office of Admission