If it’s time for your child to start visiting schools, you might find yourself asking, “Do parents come on college tours?” The answer is yes!
Flickr user Penn State
Though it’s not required, it is quite common for parents to go on college tours with their children. Campus visits offer a firsthand experience of the college environment and can help determine whether or not it is a good fit for your child. Though the final decision is up to them, your presence can provide valuable support and insights to guide them through the decision-making process.
Exactly how much should you be involved during these college visits? Your goal should be to ensure your child enjoys themselves and gather the information they need to make a decision about their future. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Options During a College Visit
When you’re trying to pick a college, there are different ways to check them out. One common way is a campus tour. During a tour, a student or staff member shows you around. You can see classrooms, dorms, and where to eat, so you get a feel for life on campus.
You can also go to information sessions. These go deeper into what the college offers. They talk about applying, programs they have, financial help, and campus resources.
For a more hands-on experience, you might stay overnight. This means spending a night on campus and living like a college student for a day. You could sit in on a class, eat in the dining halls, and stay in a dorm. It’s a great way to really understand what it’s like to be part of the college community.
Planning a Successful College Visit
1. Encourage Research
Before your visit, encourage your child to do their own research on the college. They can check out what classes are offered and any other extracurricular activities that may be of interest to them. This way, they have an idea of what they want to see and ask on the tour.
2. Schedule Appointments
Reach out to the school ahead of time and schedule appointments to learn more about the college. You can talk to someone in the admissions office to learn more about the application process, or you might even ask to meet with a professor who teaches a subject your child is interested in.
3. Establish a Plan Together
Make sure to set aside some time to sit down with your child and make a plan for your visit. This plan should include campus tours, information sessions, and any meetings you have scheduled. Let your child know that you’ll be there to support them throughout the day, but also give them the freedom to explore on their own.
4. Remember To Take Notes
Campus visits are exciting, but it can be easy to forget all of the details—especially if you are planning to visit more than one college. Taking notes can help you remember specific information about the visit. It can also give you and your child more clarity later on once you have time to reflect. You might even offer to take notes for your child so they can focus on experiencing the campus without worrying about doing it themselves.
READ MORE >> The Most Common Questions About College Campus Visits
College Visit Costs
College visits can quickly become costly, whether you’re traveling by car or plane, near or far. To avoid overspending, set aside a specific amount for college visits in your overall budget. This helps prioritize which colleges to visit without breaking the bank.
When scheduling visits, try to visit schools in the same region to reduce travel and hotel expenses. In some cases, you may not be able to visit a college in person. Reach out to the school and see if you can attend a virtual tour or online information sessions.
Make the Most of Your Visit
There is a lot to see in a short amount of time when touring a campus. Because of this, there might be some things your child overlooks. If you notice something that you think might interest them, suggest exploring it together. For example, you could say, “I know you enjoy running. Should we check out the fitness center?”
READ MORE: 8 Critical Questions To Ask During College Campus Tours
If time allows, try to explore the surrounding town or city as well. Grab a coffee at an off-campus cafe during a break or explore dinner options after the tour. You might find parks or hiking trails nearby, or you might be close to a bigger city. Knowing what’s surrounding the campus can help give more insight into the environment your child will live in.
Supporting Your Child
Encourage Reflection
After the tour is over there is time to reflect, regroup to compare notes, and listen to your child’s observations. Remember, this is their decision, so try not to overwhelm them with advice. Their interests and preferences might differ from yours so try to be supportive as you listen to their experience. To offer guidance, try asking open-ended questions:
- What did you think about the facilities, like the library, dorms, and dining halls?
- Were there any specific programs or extracurricular activities that caught your attention?
- Can you see yourself thriving at this college?
- How did you feel about the campus atmosphere and vibe?
- Were there any concerns or reservations that came up?
- How do you think this college compares to others you’ve visited?
- What factors are most important to you when considering which college to attend?
Offer Guidance
Choosing a college is a big deal and should not be rushed. There is a lot to consider and think about. Encourage them to reflect on each of their tours by making a pros and cons list. Remind them there are always other options to explore if the ones they’ve toured don’t seem like a good fit. Reassure them that you are there to help with anything they need, such as the application process or researching financial aid options.
Remember, your role as parents during college tours is to be their support system, offering guidance and encouragement. Not only can you assist in planning and organizing, but you’ll also gain insight into your child’s preferences. While college tours can be exciting, they can also feel overwhelming for some students. Let your child know that you are with them every step of the way, from planning the visit to the day they move into college. Soon enough, they’ll be on their own. So while it’s important to be involved in the process, let them take the lead. Most importantly, remember to enjoy the experience together!
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