Do

Try to go on a day when students are in class. You will get to see, and interact, with the typical student at the university. In addition to this you will get full access to most of the university’s buildings and amenities.

Don’t

 Rush your visit. By having lunch and spending time on campus outside of your tour you will feel the true pulse of student body.

Do

 Try to get a meeting with an admissions officer. They will be able to tell you all of the ins and outs of applying and, most importantly, how to get the MOO-LAH.

Don’t

 Be  afraid to ask questions. The students who give you tours WANT to answer all of your questions. The silent tours are just as awkward for your tour guide as you!

Do

 Walk in the front of the pack. This will allow you actually hear the tour guide’s advice. Also, walking in the front allows you to ask questions as soon as they pop into your head.

Don’t

 Dress like a slob. They always say dress for the job you want, not the job you have. So, while many college campuses are extremely casual, dress presentably. You want to make an impression on any students and the admissions officers you meet.

Do

 Dress comfortably. Most tours involved long walks around the entire campus. In addition to this, dress for the weather. You want to be able to focus on the campus, not the fact that you are sweating like a pig or becoming an icicle.

Do

 Start early! Senior year is incredibly busy. At this point in your high school career, you usually have a multitude of commitments. Carving out time for a college visit is difficult, so whenever possible take a visit. By getting started early, you will also save yourself a lot of grief by narrowing the number of colleges you are applying to.