DETERMINE WHEN TO VISIT.
- The type of tours and activities depends on the age and grade level of the students.
- If the tour is targeting high school upperclassmen, then you should try to visit before you apply for admission.
- Try to visit when classes are in session, so you have the opportunity to see and experience typical campus life.
ARRANGE A VISIT.
- Talk to your GEAR UP Coordinator and/or School Counselor to see if there are any visits that you can participate in.
- Open House/Special Events Versus Traditional Campus Tours: One option is to visit a university or college during their special events days geared towards particular groups such as the University of Washington’s Engineering Discovery Days, or Washington State University Future Cougar Day.
- See if there are any free summer camp opportunities you can participate in on campus, such as GEAR UP Empower U Camp or Envision U Camp.
- Want to go on your own? Contact the admissions office to set up a visit. Their website should provide instructions on how to set one up.
- Be clear on what you’d like to see and do. Activities might include:
- Campus tours led by students.
- Student panels.
- Hands-on activities related to class curriculum.
- Admissions/financial aid presentation.
- Visiting dorms or athletic facilities.
- Sitting in on a class.
- Time to talk to an instructor.
- Consider connecting with alumni from your town’s high school who attend the school to learn more about their experience.
GET READY.
- Before your visit, you should prepare by researching the school or program’s website. Make a list of questions to ask both staff and students. You can use the Campus Visit Checklist, too to help you organize your thoughts.
- Don’t forget to get a map. Find out where the admission office is and where to park.
- Be sure to bring a camera and notebook to record your thoughts.
