In a few short days, New York City will be on spring break. This extended break from school is an ideal time to visit colleges for current juniors. If you are an 11th grade student and have not yet started visiting campuses, what are you waiting for?? Missing class to visit a college is not an excused absense. Why not? Colleges want students with top grades who are committed to academics. Missing vital classroom instruction makes it difficult to achieve those goals, so whenever possible college visits should take place when school is not in session.
Don't have any visits planned? It is not too late! At the very least, you can visit local schools that don't require a plane ticket or a hotel reservation. Not sure how to get to the campus? Don't forget to check all available options like buses from Port Authority or discount bus lines like Bolt Bus or Megabus. There are also colleges along Metro North and LIRR train lines so if your family doesn't have a car that isn't an excuse. We also have many campuses right here in the 5 boroughs that you can get to with public transportation. Use this school vacation as a gift from the college process gods -- giving you the chance to walk around and get a feel for the campus environment that fits you best.
Already have a family vacation planned during the break? Not to worry - plan ahead now for how you'll spend the rest of your spring weekends and other school breaks (Regents days when you are not testing, school holidays, etc)
How do you schedule a campus visit? It is easy! Just log on to the campus website and follow the links (usually labeled 'Visit Us' or 'Campus Tours'). Most schools want you to pre-register ahead of time so be sure to follow any instructions to make your visit worry free. It is always advisable to visit officially through the Admissions Office (as opposed to walking around on your own without checking in there), that way the campus knows you are interested.
Remember to try to visit a range of schools - if you see 5 far reach schools and zero targets and likely schools it will make it hard to get excited about visualizing yourself at those schools. When you visit, be sure to keep an open mind. Jot down your thoughts after the visit so you can keep track of your reactions - what did you love? What did you wish was different?
Visiting colleges is one of the most exciting parts of the college process - enjoy it!
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