1. Research the College Thoroughly

Before you set foot on campus, spend some time researching the college online. Visit the official college website and read about the programs, faculty, student life, and campus amenities to make sure that it could be a good fit for you.

Demonstrated interest refers to the actions taken by prospective students to show their enthusiasm and commitment to attending a particular college, such as campus visits, attending information sessions, participating in interviews, and engaging with the college online. It is important because it shows colleges that you are serious about attending, and helps you make an informed choice. Some schools evaluate a student’s demonstrated interest when making an admission decision while others do not. A university’s website should list if and how they take demonstrated interest into consideration.

Key Points:

• Explore academic programs and majors.
• Be sure to understand which schools value demonstrated interest.
• Check out campus facilities and housing options. 

2. Make a Game Plan

Most colleges offer various visiting options, such as campus tours, information sessions, and opportunities to sit in on classes or meet with faculty. Schedule your visit well in advance and confirm all details, keeping in mind that tour schedules can vary at some schools during the summer months. Make a list of activities and appointments to ensure you make the most of your time on campus. Keep all of your information about college tours in one document or folder to stay organized.

If you plan on visiting multiple campuses within one trip, you’ll want to map out your trip geographically, book transportation and hotel accommodations, and make sure to account for any necessary travel days.

It’s also unlikely that you will be able to hit every school on your list, so it is important to prioritize in a way that makes sense for you. For example, if you are unsure if you want a traditional campus or one in an urban setting, make sure you visit both types of campuses so you can compare. Another pro tip is to make sure that you are hitting at least one reach, match, and safety school from your list.

Key Points:

• Register for campus tours and info sessions.
• Arrange meetings with professors or admissions officers if possible.
• Plan your travel and accommodation. 

3. Prepare Questions to Ask

Prepare a list of questions to ask during your visit. These questions should cover aspects that are important to you, such as academic programs, campus culture, housing, and financial aid. Don’t hesitate to ask students, professors, or admissions staff to get diverse perspectives.

Admissions counselors are also known to give hints about things that they consider important for their school and may share tips about how to tackle their supplemental essays. Be sure to keep an eye out for any of these and don’t be afraid to ask follow up questions! It is your one chance to hear directly from the source!

Key Questions: 

• What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
• What kinds of support services are available (tutoring, career counseling)?
• How active are campus clubs and organizations? 

4. Come Prepared

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. Bring a backpack with essentials such as a notebook, pen, water bottle, and a phone charger. It’s also a good idea to have a printed copy of your itinerary and any necessary contact information. If you are attending an information session, make sure that you know the exact address of the Admission’s Office and any necessary information about parking. The University of Michigan’s campus in Ann Arbor spans over 3,000 acres – make sure you know exactly where you need to be!

If you are attending an online session, make sure that you have the correct link, reliable internet connection, and the correct time (be aware of times listed in different time zones!). And please, please make sure that you turn your webcam on to make the best impression.

Checklist:

• Comfortable attire and walking shoes.
• Notebook and pen for taking notes.
• Water bottle and snacks.
• Phone and charger. 

5. Take Notes and Reflect

During your visit, take detailed notes on various aspects of the campus. Observe the architecture, the condition of the facilities, and the layout of the campus. Note how easy it is to navigate and whether it feels welcoming. Pay attention to the interactions you have with the staff and students—are they friendly, helpful, and approachable? Capture specific moments that stand out, such as engaging conversations or insightful information shared by tour guides.

Reflect on the overall atmosphere and vibe of the campus. Does it feel vibrant and active, or quiet and relaxed? Consider the cultural and social environment—does it align with your preferences and expectations? After the visit, take some time to review your notes and assess how well the college meets your academic, social, and personal needs. Consider whether you can see yourself thriving there and how it compares to other campuses you’ve visited. Remember, colleges don’t just choose you, you also choose the college.

Reflection Points:

• Did you feel welcomed and comfortable?
• Can you see yourself thriving in this environment?
• How does this college compare to others you’ve visited?