Experiencing William and Mary

Hey guys, I'm planning to visit William and Mary soon. It's one of my top choices and I really want to understand the campus culture and the vibe there. What should I focus on during my visit? Any particular places I need to check out or questions I should be asking on the tour? All suggestions are welcome.

Remember that a college visit is all about getting a sense of the atmosphere and fit for you personally. Here are a few tips to help make your visit to William and Mary as beneficial as possible.

1. Tour the Campus: On most college tours, you'll visit the main academic buildings, dormitories, dining halls, and athletic facilities. At William and Mary, be sure to check out the Sir Christopher Wren Building – it’s an iconic structure and the oldest college building in the country still in use.

2. Explore Off-Campus: Take some time to explore Colonial Williamsburg as the campus is nestled within this historic city. You might also want to check out places where students hang out like eateries and coffee shops to get an idea of the student lifestyle.

3. Attend a Class: See if you can audit a class. This will give you a chance to experience the teaching style there. You might need to arrange this in advance through the admissions office.

4. Speak with Current Students: Try to strike up conversations with current students. It could be in addition to your tour guide. They can give you a lot of insight into student life, academics, and the overall vibe at William and Mary.

5. Check out the Libraries: William and Mary has a number of different libraries including the Earl Gregg Swem Library, which is their main library, and the Wolf Law Library. The amount of resources available and studying atmosphere can be an crucial factor in your academic experience.

6. Visit the Career Center: Ask about internship and job placement opportunities. William and Mary's Cohen Career Center provides a wealth of resources for students.

7. Ask Questions: There are some specific questions you might want to ask on your visit such as "What is the student-faculty ratio and average class size?" or "What efforts are in place to promote student wellness and mental health?" You should also inquire about study abroad opportunities if that's something you're interested in.

Remember to take lots of photos and notes to help you remember key points about the school, especially if you're visiting multiple campuses. This will help you when you're making your final decision. Happy visiting!