How Students Make the Most of College Visits

College brochures, picture by Sadie Greenhalgh

Every year, college representatives travel to Walls to meet with students and share what their campuses have to offer. These visits give sophomores, juniors and seniors a chance to ask questions, learn about the admission process, and explore opportunities without leaving the building. For many, it’s the first step in discovering which college might be the right fit.

Ellianie Kalala (‘27) explained that college visits “helped me decide the location of the school I would want to go to and helped me modify my expectations.” Awnya Gallagher (‘26), agreed with Kalala, adding that these events are a “good spot to learn what you want.”

College representatives can also be a valuable resource when attending college visits. Associate Director of Wellesley College, Denisse Huezo-Rosales, encourages students to attend visits as they’re “a great time for you to ask questions.” Not only are these visits helpful for getting answers, but attendance also demonstrates interest. “When we read your application, we can see that we met with you,” Ms. Huezo-Rosales explained. “Same thing [with] emails… we can see that you opened [our] emails or if you send us emails.”

Although this may seem daunting, simply showing up to college visits can be the first step in the admission process. Ms. Justine Sinprasith, the 11th grade counselor, noted that “most representatives are in charge of a specific region, so most of the time, they actually remember the people who showed up to the visit.” This is helpful for admission officers, as Ms. Heuzo-Rosales explained, as it puts “a face to an application.”

Yet occasionally, not everything goes smoothly, as there are often communication issues. Gallagher noted the visits are “frequently rescheduled or cancelled with little to no notice, which [creates chaos].” However, Ms. Sinprasith explained that “the cancellations are never on our part - sometimes [representatives] cancel for personal reasons.”

Deciding which college visits to attend can also be an obstacle for students. Ms. Huezo-Rosales recommended to “make a list of non-negotiables.” For example, looking at schools based on a certain major or campus culture “narrows the playing field.” She also encourages students to ask themselves if a college has what they need “to succeed and be happy being away from home.” Answering this question can provide insight on whether a specific college is the right fit.

Upperclassmen have also developed strategies for making the most of college visits. John Gabest (‘26), recommended to “come with questions and take notes,” since getting personal questions answered “gives more insight into whether or not the school is right.” Preliminary research is just as important, though - Gallagher suggests to “know what you’re looking for before you come in.”

College visits at school may only last a short time, but they can make a big difference in the decision-making process. By taking advantage of these opportunities to ask questions and connect with representatives, students can leave with a clearer picture of their future options. For many, it’s the start of turning college dreams into real plans.