Essential questions to ask when visiting universities

I’m planning some campus visits soon and I wanna make sure to ask all the right questions to get a good feel for each university. Beyond the usual stuff about class sizes and dorms, are there any lesser-known but important questions I should consider? Maybe things past students wished they'd asked? Tips on how to get the most out of these visits would be awesome too.

Well, asking thoughtful questions can indeed glean a wealth of insights that can help you with your decision-making process. In addition to asking about class sizes, you might also want to ask about the average class size for your intended major, not just the overall average. Some schools have smaller classes for certain majors, which could impact your learning environment.

When discussing with current students or staff, you might want to delve into:

1. Support programs or resources: What academic support and resources are provided? Are there Writing Centers or Tutoring Centers?

2. Internships, co-ops, and research opportunities: Are there resources to help students secure these? Is there a chance for undergraduate students to participate in research?

3. Campus culture: What traditions define the college culture?

4. Outcomes: What do recent graduates do after graduation? Does the school provide support for career exploration and job placement?

Asking about the campus surrounding area is crucial as well. Things like:

1. Public transportation: Does the school provide any transportation services or is the school close to public transportation?

2. Proximity to necessities: Where is the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, or hospital?

3. Off-campus housing options: If you plan on eventually moving off-campus, what are the options and realistic costs?

Finally, you'll also want to check out the dining options. What styles of food are typically served? Is there a variety of healthy options available? Do meal plans cater to special dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc?

Remember to take notes while on the tour, so you can recall information later when you’re weighing your options. Also, don’t just overwhelm yourself with the 'hard facts.' Take time to get a feel for the campus atmosphere and whether it feels like a place where you’d be comfortable and happy.