Blog College Preparation, Student Experience, Students

Selecting a College Visit That is Right for You

Friday, August 16, 2024

Visiting a college campus is much more than just a tour and a free T-shirt. It is the path to making a very important decision that will have an impact on your future. One of the most effective ways to make this choice is by visiting the campuses you are interested in and experiencing the environment firsthand. You will likely visit a college campus multiple times before and after making your final decision, which is why there are different kinds of campus visits that all have a different purpose. To help you navigate through the various options, we will explain the different types of visits and ways that UNW comes along side of you during that journey.

Early in the College Search:

Visiting a college campus early in your search is important for several reasons. First, it helps you get a real sense of the campus atmosphere and culture, which can be difficult to pick up on through brochures and online resources alone. Early visits also allow you to compare different colleges more effectively, helping you to identify what you like and dislike about each one. These visits can provide clarity on your preferences regarding campus size, location, and available facilities, which can significantly narrow down your choices and make the decision process less overwhelming.

Preview Days: held in both the fall and spring, this campus visit event is great for gathering initial information and getting a broad sense of the campus and its offerings. Connect with professors at an academic open house, tour our lake-side campus, and learn more about financial aid and the enrollment process.
Activities: campus tour, lunch, academic fair, general admissions sessions. This half-day event provides a variety of information to kickstart your college journey.

Personalized:

Personalized visits are important for prospective students because they allow for a tailored experience that addresses specific interests and needs. Unlike general open house events, a personalized visit lets you dive deeper into aspects of the college that matter most to you, such as meeting with faculty in your intended major, sitting in on classes, or exploring extracurricular opportunities. This focused approach can provide a clearer picture of whether the college is the right fit for you.

Eagle Visit Days: schedule this visit after you have a general understanding of what the university offers to dive deeper into specific areas of interest.
Best for: juniors and seniors, though accommodations can be made for underclassmen.
Activities:
- Attend chapel (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m.)
- Lunch in the dining center
- Attend a class (seniors only, requires one-week advance notice)
- Meet with a professor (seniors only, requires one week advance notice)
- Meet with an athletic coach (requires one-week advance notice)
- Attend music rehearsal (weekdays, late afternoon)
- Department tours (nursing, engineering, communication, art, theatre)

Major-Specific Exploration:

These events are essential because they offer a focused look at the academic programs and facilities related to your field of interest. You can gain a deeper understanding of the curriculum, research opportunities, and career prospects associated with your major. Interacting with faculty and current students provides insight into the program’s strengths and the support you can expect to receive. This visit helps you determine if the college’s academic offerings align with your career goals and interests.

Academic-Specific Events (Creative Arts and STEM): if you have a clear idea of your intended major, these events can provide a focused and detailed look at what you can expect at UNW.

Admitted Students:

These events are helpful because they facilitate a smoother transition into college life. Meeting other admitted students and forming connections early can significantly reduce the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany this major life change. Engaging with faculty and current students during these events helps you feel more integrated into the college community, making the first few weeks of college less daunting. Getting a taste of student experience through activities and overnight stays can reaffirm your decision to enroll and increase your excitement about starting your college journey.

Icebreaker Events: perfect for getting a taste of the student experience, meeting future classmates, and easing the transition into university life.
- Activities: includes a comedian to “break the ice,” mixer events, dinner with faculty, an evening of worship, and optional overnight stay in dorms.

Given the significant investment that education represents, visiting a college campus multiple times is a helpful step in the decision-making process. University of Northwestern – St. Paul offers a variety of events tailored to different stages of your journey. Whether you’re just starting to explore, looking for personalized details, diving into a specific major, or gearing up for enrollment, there’s an event designed to meet your needs. Plan your visit today to see if UNW is the right fit for you!