Campus News

How to Make Every College Visit Count

(Posted October 31, 2025)

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HUNTINGDON, Pa.—For college-bound students, a campus visit can make all the difference. It transforms brochures and websites into real experiences—and knowing what to look for can help turn a simple tour into a valuable step toward finding the right school. 

High school students are encouraged to begin checking out colleges as early as their sophomore year and Alisha Boerstler, director of recruitment and enrollment communication at Juniata College, recommends beginning with nearby institutions. “Visiting colleges can be time-consuming and expensive. If possible, start close to home during your sophomore year of high school,” she said. “A nearby visit offers a low-pressure introduction to the process.” 

By the summer following a high school student’s junior year, start building a curated list of top schools, and visits scheduled to ensure they check the same boxes in-person as they did while researching them online or with a guidance counselor.  

“As you start to build your list, make a top three or five that have your top characteristics that you want to prioritize visiting,” said Boerstler. “Many schools will also do group visits to college during the school day–take advantage of these if you are able.” 

Most colleges and universities include small- and large-group campus tours and informational sessions as part of the visit experience. Large events like open houses often offer sessions with professors, current students, and student support staff as part of the experience. Some institutions even invite high school students to sit in college classes or meet with professors.  

While facilities and programs matter, the people you meet can reveal even more about a college’s character. In fact, the ability to connect with the individuals on campus directly responsible for positive student outcomes is a sign of an institution with a strong support system geared toward student success.  

“Ask students who they go to when they need help. Approachable professors and staff are often the key to a successful college experience,” she said.  

Family members or supporters should ensure they give their students the space to discuss their current academic and extracurricular interests as they evolve. For students who are the first in their families to attend college, don’t hesitate to loop in admissions professionals while navigating the unfamiliar.  

“We’re happy to share our expertise with families as they go through the search, even if the search doesn’t ultimately end in our college,” said Boerstler.  

Making the most of a college visit doesn’t end with departing campus. It’s vital to use information, impressions, and the overall experience to guide decision-making.  

“I recommend using the two ‘R’s,’ reflecting and recording after every visit. Sometimes, all the college visits can start to run together,” Boerstler said. “Make time on your travels home to think about what you liked and didn’t like, and what generally sticks out to you about the school.”  

Whether jotted down in a notebook or typed in a notes app, the information can be referenced easily for comparison later or used to prompt additional follow-up questions not considered while on the visit.  

A local opportunity to start or continue a college search is coming up with Juniata College’s November Open House on Sunday, November 9. See the campus, meet the people, and learn how a Juniata education prepares you to adapt to change and lead what’s next. Register at juniata.edu. 

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.