Before the Visit: Preparation is Key
1. Create a Campus Visit Checklist:
Before you set foot on any campus, prepare a checklist of what matters most to you. Consider aspects like academic programs, campus facilities, housing, extracurricular activities, and overall vibe. This checklist will serve as your guide, ensuring you cover all important areas during your visit, which you can later detail in your campus journal.

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2. Research the Campus:
Understand some facts about the campus. Knowing the basics will help you focus on details that matter most to you. Write down specific questions you want to ask during your visit, and leave space in your campus journal to note the answers.
 

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During the Visit: Be Observant and Detailed
3. Use a Dedicated Notebook:
Designate a specific notebook (like The College Visit Journal: Campus Visits Demystified) for your campus journal. This will help keep your thoughts organized and easily accessible when you review them later.
 

4. Divide Your Notes by Categories:
Structure your campus journal into categories such as academics, student life, facilities, and impressions. This will make it easier to compare different aspects of each campus.
 

5. Capture First Impressions:
First impressions can be powerful indicators of your initial reactions. Write down your immediate thoughts as soon as you arrive on campus in your campus journal. Note the overall vibe, how welcoming the campus feels, and your gut reaction.
 

6. Attend Information Sessions and Tours:
During official tours and info sessions, jot down key points in your campus journal. Note the tour guide’s insights, unique programs, and standout features of the campus. Pay attention to details that resonate with your interests and needs.
 

7. Talk to Students and Staff:
Engage with current students and faculty. Ask about their experiences, what they love about the campus, and any challenges they’ve faced. Note their responses and any personal anecdotes they share in your campus journal.
 

8. Take Photos:
Visual aids can complement your campus journal. Capture photos of important landmarks, buildings, dorm rooms, and any other aspects that stand out. Make sure to note why you took each photo and include these notes in your campus journal.
 

9. Record Specific Details:
Be meticulous about recording specific details in your campus journal. Note the names of buildings, the layout of the campus, dining hall options, and available facilities. These specifics will help you remember each visit more clearly.

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After the Visit: Review and Reflect
10. Summarize Your Experience:
Soon after your visit, take time to summarize your overall experience in your campus journal. Highlight the positives and any concerns. Reflect on whether the campus met your expectations and how it aligns with your college criteria.
 

11. Compare and Contrast:
As you visit more campuses, use your campus journal to compare and contrast each one. Look for patterns and recurring themes that indicate what you value most in a college.
 

12. Update Your Checklist:
After each visit, revisit your checklist. Add any new questions or considerations that arose during your tour. This will help refine your criteria for future visits and ensure your campus journal remains a comprehensive record.