When should I start visiting colleges?

I'm just starting my junior year, and everyone keeps telling me to start thinking about visiting colleges. I'm wondering when the best time to start is and how to approach planning these visits. Should I try to visit during the school year so I can see what campus life is like when students are around? Or is it better to visit in the summer when I might have more free time? Also, any tips for making the most out of these visits would be super helpful!

It's optimal to start visiting colleges in the second half of your junior year if possible. This gives you an ample amount of time to formulate first impressions, compare different schools, and make informed decisions. Usually, it's recommended to allot a good chunk of your spring break and summer break for college visits. However, this timeline can be flexible and adapted to accommodate your personal commitments and academic workload.

Visiting colleges during the school year, when most students are present, could offer a more vivid and accurate picture of university life. This being said, keep in mind that much of the "vibe" on campus will also depend on the particular day you visit. For instance, campuses are generally busier on weekdays when classes are in session compared to weekends.

Here are a few tips to maximize your visits:

1. Prepare your questions: Remember it's your opportunity to evaluate whether the college is a good fit for you. You can inquire about academics, extracurricular activities, housing, support services, internship opportunities, or study abroad programs.

2. Check out the surrounding area, as you would potentially spend four years of your life there. Spend time in the local city or town and get a feel for the environment, including the availability of recreational activities, work opportunities, and transportation.

3. Attend a class or two if the college permits. This will give you an idea of class sizes, teaching styles, and student participation.

4. Talk to current students. They can provide a firsthand perspective of college life and give you the most candid responses about the real campus atmosphere.

5. Take notes right after your visit while the observations and impressions are still fresh.

Remember, college visits serve as an explorative stage. You don’t have to decide about attending a school right after a visit. The goal is just to observe, ask, and take in as much information as you can. And who knows, the campus which you might not be too excited to visit initially might end up to be your top choice. You never really know until you set foot on the campus!