Want to learn more about the kind of colleges you might like? Take a campus tour!
Start by researching schools that offer the degree or certification you might be interested in for your future career. Think about whether you want to stay close to home or venture out a little farther. Then sign up for a tour on the institution’s website. Give yourself some time to explore the school and the area before or after the tour. As you explore, think about the following:
- School size. Consider what size school fits your needs and interests best. Some students thrive in larger schools that offer a wide range of opportunities and activities, while others prefer the intimacy of a smaller school where they can receive a more individualized education and build close relationships with their professors. On a campus tour, you can assess the type and scale of school that aligns with your comfort level and educational goals.
- Living conditions. Pay close attention to campus facilities during the tour. Spend time in places you will frequent as a student – like residence halls, classrooms, the dining hall, student union, and outdoor spaces. Also be sure to locate the admissions and financial aid offices.
- Location. Whether you attend a school nearby or far away, you’ll need to budget for travel. For instance, if you study in Oklahoma, will the commute back home be a quick drive or a longer one? If you plan to study out of state, will it involve a plane ticket?
- Vibe. What does it feel like on campus? What are the students like? Can you picture yourself there? Sometimes fit is hard to calculate, you just have to see how the overall environment suits you. Try to talk to current students to get their perspective on things like student life, competition, academics, etc.
Before you head out on your tour, be sure to check out Making the Most of College Visits. This guide will help you choose which areas of the campus to visit and provide you with a list of questions to ask at each location. You can also research and compare colleges of interest on OKcollegestart.org. Finally, be sure to peruse our Junior and Senior Checklists for other ways to prepare yourself for college.
We understand how hard it can be to choose the college that suits you best. We hope these tips and tools help!