College Tours: a Useful Tool in the College Application Cycle

This time for juniors and their families is a big turning point in high school—especially when it comes to planning for college. One of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of the process is touring campuses. Whether you're just beginning your college search or narrowing down a list, campus visits can give you a better sense of what life might be like at different schools. But without the right preparation, it’s easy to walk away from a tour more confused than confident.

Here’s how to make the most of your college visits, ask the right questions, and come away with a clear picture of what matters most to you.

1. Start With a Game Plan

It’s tempting to sign up for every tour possible, but your time and energy are limited—for most people, finances come into play as well (travels, flights, hotels, etc)

Before you visit any campuses, ask yourself a few questions:

• Do I want a big university or a smaller college?

• Am I more interested in urban, suburban, or rural settings?

• What majors or programs might I want to pursue?

• How far from home am I willing to go?

  
  

Even if you don’t have the answers yet, thinking through these questions will help you choose which schools are worth visiting. Try to tour a variety—maybe a small liberal arts college, a large public university, and a mid-sized private school—just to compare different vibes.

I am a major advocate of considering location as a factor as well. I lived in California for college, Philadelphia for medical school, and now Florida for medical residency. Each location has affected me in drastically different ways. That's why I believe that college tours: a useful tool.

2. Plan Your Visit Thoughtfully

Once you pick a few schools, go to their admissions websites to register for a tour. Some schools offer specialized sessions for certain majors or departments, which can be especially helpful if you already know your interests.

If possible, visit while classes are in session. You'll get a more accurate sense of the energy on campus, and you might even sit in on a class or two. Don’t forget to check for local hotels or parking information in advance—and always allow extra time to explore on your own after the formal tour ends.

3. Ask the Right Questions (and Take Notes)

Tours can start to blur together, especially if you visit multiple schools in a short period. To stay organized, bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down impressions, answers to your questions, and random observations. You’ll thank yourself later. I also have a printable PDF for students and/or parents to utilize during tours for concise, organized notes. Anyone who subscribes to my Blog will be able to request access to this PDF, for free!

While visiting campus, it’s a good idea to talk to current students outside the official tour, too—maybe in the student center or dining hall. You'll often get more candid insights from casual conversations. I remember that I did this when visiting my Alma mater and it made a big difference when assessing how social students seemed for example.

4. Pay Attention to What You See and Feel

Sometimes it’s not about the facts, but how you feel when you're walking around campus. Do students seem happy and engaged? Are there flyers for clubs and events that match your interests? Could you picture yourself living there for four years?

Trust your instincts. The "feel" of a campus is a real thing. While a beautiful campus or a fun tour guide might not be the most important factors, your comfort and enthusiasm matter. If something doesn’t sit right, note that, too.

5. Reflect and Compare

After each visit, take time to reflect. What did you like? What didn’t you like? Could you see yourself living there? How does it compare to other schools you've visited?

My printable PDF (available for free if you subscribe to my blog) can help you compare key factors among the colleges you tour.

You don’t need to make any final decisions this summer, but this is a great time to build a solid foundation for your list of colleges to apply to in the fall of senior year.

6. Don’t Stress If You Can’t Visit Every School

Not everyone has the time or resources to tour every school they’re interested in—and that’s okay. Many colleges now offer virtual tours, online info sessions, and student panels. While it’s not quite the same as being there in person, virtual resources can still give you a good sense of a school’s personality and offerings.

If you can’t tour in person, try to connect with current students through social media or school forums. Ask your high school counselor if they can connect you with alumni who attend those schools.

Final Thoughts

Touring colleges is a big step in your college journey—but it doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing ahead of time, staying curious, and trusting your instincts, you can turn campus visits into powerful tools for making informed decisions.

Remember: this is about finding a place where you’ll thrive, both academically and personally. You’re not just choosing a college or a ranking; you’re choosing a community and an experience. So take your time, ask questions, and enjoy the process. Your future is waiting.

Sincerely,

Dr. Medeeha Khan