Touring college campuses is a huge part of the college selection process. Before you book your college tour, check out these 6 tips for making the most of your time on campus.

1. Come with questions.

You know better than anyone else what your goals are, or what you want to get out of the college experience. Before your tour, make a list of questions that will help you decide whether the college is right for you. There’s no better time to ask than while you’re strolling around campus with a tour guide who’s knowledgeable about the institution.

2. Go to class.

Some colleges will let you sit in on an actual class during a campus tour. This will give you an idea of the college’s class sizes, the rigor of instruction, and the relationships professors have with their students. Make sure your tour guide knows your intended major or fields of interest. If you plan to major in engineering, for example, sitting in on a poetry class might not help you out very much.

3. Talk to students.

Your tour guide’s job is to make the college sound awesome, but students will tell it like it is. Strike up a conversation with students hanging out between classes to get the scoop on their college experience. Ask them why they chose that college, and what they like the most and the least about their school. It’ll give you valuable insight beyond the typical campus tour.

4. Take notes.

Sounds cheesy, but it helps. Jot down some notes in your phone or snap photos of things that are important to you. If you’re into drama, for example, takea photo of the college’s theatre. That way, when you’re weighing your options, you can review the highlights and make a smart choice.

5. Visit more than one.

You might not know a college is a perfect fit for you until you set foot on campus. Don’t pick one school and stick with it—visit several! Then, make a list of pros and cons—and review those notes and photos—to help you figure out your top picks.

6. Follow up.

Get your tour guide or recruiter’s contact info, and don’t be afraid to call or email with questions after your tour. They’ll love that you’re interested, and you’ll get all the details you need to select the right college.

 Thinking about Texarkana College? Our recruiters would love to show you around!