Palmer Trinity School

PTS452_College-Handbook-2023-24_R2 REVISED-05302024.0417pm COLLEGE ADVISING 2024

An independent, college preparatory, co-ed, Episcopal Day School serves a community of students in grades 6-12.

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palmertrinity.org 15 Visiting college campuses in person can be one of the most helpful activities during your college search. To schedule a college visit, simply call and inquire into the times for tours, information sessions, and interviews. Also, check the websites for tour and information session times. ese visits do not typically require an appointment, but occasionally they do, so call ahead. HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT YOUR VISIT 1. Call or check online for tour times or to reserve a spot on the tour and information session. 2. Many colleges have a formal information session at a specific time of the day. We recommend you attend this as well as the campus tour. 3. Call ahead to see if the college offers on-campus interviews and try to arrange one (at least 2 weeks in advance). We recommend interviewing during the summer since it is often difficult to return to campuses during the fall. 4. If possible, attend some classes and also try to spend some time walking around the campus alone, to taste the flavor of the place. Often, visiting the dining hall and the student center, and listening to students talk are a good way to get a sense of the school's atmosphere. 5. Explore the areas of campus (and the surrounding area) where you think you will spend the most time. Walk around the academic departments that interest you. 6. Take notes during your visit — some colleges can begin to look and sound alike very quickly. 7. Even if you are not required to RSVP for a tour or information session, check in with the admission office receptionist when you arrive. You will likely be asked to complete an "Inquiry Card" which officially records your visit. Some colleges consider your campus visit "demonstrated interest." is piece is more important than you might expect, especially at many smaller, liberal arts schools. All else being equal, some colleges may offer admission to those who have shown the most interest! THE CAMPUS TOUR Below are some sample questions you might want to consider when you visit a college and take a campus tour. Remember that the tour is an important opportunity for you to talk with a current student (the tour guide) and learn more about the student experience at the college. 1. How large are your classes? Do you meet regularly with an advisor? 2. Where do you study? Is the library a good place to work or study? What hours do students have access to libraries, computers, labs, etc.? 3. What academic experiences are available beyond the classroom? 4. What percent of students live in dorms? Is housing guaranteed for all four years? 5. Is this considered a safe campus? Are there regular patrols, escort vans, emergency phones? 6. Is this an openly competitive campus? How are tests and exams administered? 7. Do you meet with professors informally? Have you ever been invited to a professor's home? 8. How tolerant is this community of independence and diversity? 9. What are the most popular extracurricular activities here? 10. What do you like best and least about being a student here? 11. Are there single-sex dormitories, substance-free dorms, or "quiet" dorms? Any thematic housing? Are there laundry facilities in each dorm? 12. Is there a career guidance service on campus? Is the service available to alumni? 13. Does social life revolve around the campus, or do most students leave on the weekends? 14. What is the biggest campus issue currently? At the end of your visit, ask yourself two very important questions: "Do I see myself fitting in here? Am I comfortable here?" SECTION 5 COLLEGE VISITS

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