Choosing a college is a significant decision, much like purchasing a home. Both processes involve careful consideration, multiple visits, a big financial investment and a keen eye for detail. Just as a house will be your child’s home for years, a college will shape their academic and social life. Here’s how to help your child approach college visits with the same meticulous attention you would when house hunting.
1. Plan Ahead and Research Thoroughly
Just as you would meticulously read a house listing to ensure it meets your specific requirements—like an outdoor patio, good school district, or a spacious kitchen—it’s crucial to research colleges before visiting to confirm they align with your child’s academic interests. Start by exploring the academic programs and departments each college offers. Are there strong programs in their intended major? Does the college provide opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on learning in their field? What is the graduation rate?
Planning ahead involves more than just looking at the academic offerings. Consider the faculty’s expertise, resources available for your child’s potential major, and success of alumni in that field. Work with your child to make a list of their academic priorities and see how each college matches up. This preparation will help them make the most of their visit and ensure that the college can meet their scholarly needs.
2. Location, Location, Location
In real estate, location is paramount. The same goes for choosing a college. Consider the surrounding environment: urban, suburban, or rural. Each setting offers distinct experiences. An urban college might provide vibrant city life, diverse cultural opportunities, and extensive professional networks. In contrast, a suburban campus might offer a balance of peaceful surroundings with proximity to urban amenities, while a rural campus might provide serene landscapes and a close-knit community atmosphere.
Reflect on your child’s lifestyle preferences and needs. Are they energized by the hustle and bustle of a city, or do they find peace in quieter surroundings? During your visit, explore the area beyond the campus to ensure it aligns with their daily needs and interests as well as safety concerns. Visit local shops, cafes, parks, and recreational facilities. Consider how the location affects their ability to pursue hobbies, part-time jobs, internships, and travel back home.
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3. First Impressions Matter
Just as a potential home’s curb appeal can captivate you, your child’s initial impression of a college campus is crucial. Take note of the architecture, green spaces, and overall ambiance. Does the campus feel welcoming and vibrant? Is it well-maintained, with clean facilities and attractive common areas?
Pay attention to how the campus makes your child feel. Trust your instincts—first impressions often provide valuable insights into whether a college is the right fit for them and ask them for their first impressions. Look for signs of student activity, such as groups socializing, events taking place, and bulletin boards filled with announcements. A lively campus environment can enhance your child’s college experience and provide ample opportunities for engagement. Of course, the timing of your visit is key. It’s not a great idea to visit when there are no students on campus so research carefully.
4. Inspect the Interior
On a house tour, you scrutinize the interiors—checking the condition of rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Similarly, during a college visit, examine the facilities closely. Visit the dorms, classrooms, libraries, and dining halls. Are they modern, well-equipped, and conducive to learning and living? If your student is an athlete check out those facilities too.
Engage with current students to get a sense of their daily experiences. Ask about their living conditions, study environments, and overall satisfaction with the campus amenities. Pay attention to the availability of resources such as study spaces, computer & science labs, and recreational facilities. A well-resourced campus can support your child’s academic and personal development.
5. Understand the Community
A house is not just about the physical structure; it’s also about the neighborhood. Similarly, a college is more than its buildings; it’s about the community. Have your student attend a class, if possible, to observe the teaching style and classroom dynamics. Participate in a campus tour or information session to interact with students and faculty. And remember, this tour is for your child so try to keep your opinions to yourself and instead foster dialogue to learn their opinions.
Evaluate the college culture. Are students collaborative, supportive, and engaged? Is the faculty approachable, knowledgeable, and invested in student success? A thriving, inclusive community can significantly enhance your child’s college experience. Look for clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities that align with your child’s interests. These opportunities can help them build friendships, develop skills, and create lasting memories.
Additionally, consider the political and ethical environment of the campus. Are there policies or cultural norms that align with your family’s values? For instance, some campuses permit the carrying of firearms, while others have strict no-gun policies. Evaluate how the college handles issues such as diversity, equity, and inclusion. Does the institution’s stance on social and political matters resonate with your child’s beliefs? Understanding these aspects will ensure that your child feels comfortable and supported in their new environment.
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6. Future Prospects
When buying a home, you consider its potential for future growth and value. In college selection, think about your child’s future prospects. Investigate the career services, internship opportunities, and alumni network. How well does the college prepare its students for the job market or further education?
Ask about job placement rates, average starting salaries, and success stories of recent graduates. A strong support system for career development can be a deciding factor in your choice. Look into opportunities for networking, mentoring, and professional development. These resources can help your child build a solid foundation for their future career.
7. Financial Considerations
Finally, just as budget constraints influence your home purchase, financial factors play a crucial role in selecting a college. Compare tuition costs, financial aid packages, and scholarship opportunities. Understand the long-term financial commitment and weigh it against the potential return on investment. Determine if the school is need-blind meaning when evaluating your child’s application, they won’t be aware if they are applying for financial aid.
Visit the financial aid office to ask specific questions about funding options. Ensure you have a clear picture of the financial implications before making your decision. Consider additional costs such as textbooks, living expenses, and travel. A comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your family’s financial situation and goals.
8. Revisit and Reflect
In real estate, it’s common to revisit a property multiple times before making a decision. The same approach can be beneficial for college visits. After your initial visit, take time to reflect on your impressions and experiences. Revisit the campus, if possible, attend additional events, and gather more information. Urge your child to attend virtual tours and other opportunities to show their interest in specific schools they love. Many schools track this kind of interest.
Urge your student to speak with admissions officers if available, current students, and alumni to gain diverse perspectives. Ask follow-up questions and clarify any doubts. Revisiting the campus can help you see things from a different angle and ensure that you are making a well-informed decision.
BUILD THE PROPER FOUNDATION
Remember, just as the right house becomes your home, the right college can be the foundation for your child’s future success. Take your time, trust your child’s and your own instincts, and consider all aspects of the college experience. Your child’s ideal college is out there, waiting for them to discover it.
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Mimi holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Harvard University. Dubbed a “parenting guru” by Ladies Home Journal, Mimi was featured in weekly segments on The Hallmark Channel’s New Morning TV for a number of years and has appeared on Oprah and the CBS Early Show and her work has been covered in such publications as Parenting, USA Today, The London Independent, Forbes, The Boston Globe, and The Washington Post.
It is Mimi’s mission to make admissions less stressful by fully informing students as well as supporting them in presenting their true selves.
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