No doubt, college admission isn’t only a multifaceted process, but it is also time consuming. Furthermore, choosing a college that perfectly fits your requirements can be quite tricky. However, visiting several campuses can allow you to gain perspective about the environment and other things like on-campus activities.

This is why college visits are one of the crucial parts of the campus search process. Of course, the best way to learn about a college is to experience it directly. As summers are just around the corner, it’s a great time to start planning your visits.

However, many students don’t realize that they need to do a significant amount of planning before starting their visits. Most importantly, you need to do your research and should have relevant questions. In addition, you also need to plan what items to take when you’re visiting. Here are a few items that are very helpful.

What to Bring to a College Visit

1.Camera

As you will be visiting multiple campuses, you will find it difficult to distinguish them later. And, the memories are likely to blur in your mind. During the tour, capture some pictures of interesting places on the campus.

Taking some pictures will help you remember the details. Also, this way, you will be able to differentiate one college from the next.

2.A Recorder and Checklist

Before leaving your home, make sure to take a checklist with ‘must-haves’ of the college. From educational departments to other amenities, you must ensure which campus has what. You may want to confirm whether the campus has a weight room, gym, cinema/film studio, or laboratories.

Besides, use your phone’s recorder to record information sessions. Instead of taking quick and illegible notes, you will be able to gather crucial details and facts about college. This way, you can also access the information later. This is especially important when you will be making the final decision, as the recorded info will help you determine the best option for you.

3.A Notebook and Pen

As we mentioned before, prepare a list of specific questions to ask the admission officer or tour guide and take this list with you. Make sure to have the answers to all the questions before you leave the campus. Just like pictures will help you remember the campus environment, taking notes will help you remember the key points.

In other words, you will be able to make the right decision based on the amenities specific colleges provide. In addition, take some notes that specify certain things you like and dislike about a campus every time you visit a particular campus.

4.Documents

If you want to take admission on the spot, you will need to bring copies of important documents. These may include your transcripts, test scores, and ID card. Not to mention, some colleges host visit days for interested students.

While campus visits are the best way to learn about colleges, you need to plan your visits thoroughly. For that, make sure to keep the aforementioned things with you; it will help you make the best decision.