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1. Allow sufficient time to arrive at the school before the tour/information session.
2. Go on a tour and attend an information session, if available.
3. Talk to students, a very useful source of information about a college; but remember that students' personal opinions must be considered with care.
4. Visit a class; talk with a faculty member, if possible.
5. Visit a freshman dorm.
6. Have a meal on campus.
7. Visit the coffee shop, snack bar or athletic center to see "real" students.
8. Read the campus newspaper as a means of finding out what the issues are on campus. Check the bulletin boards in the student union or cafeteria.
9. ASK QUESTIONS!! Don't be bashful!!
What to look for; What to ask
Intellectual Atmosphere
1. What is the student attitude toward learning? Do most seem to enjoy their courses?
2. Do students exchange ideas outside of class?
3. Is there active interest in political, social or world issues?
4. Are there cultural opportunities available on campus? Off campus? (concerts, art galleries, museums, theaters, lectures)
5. Does it appear that many students are "workaholics"?
6. Do most students seem to place importance on their studies or on other activities?
7. Is there pressure for good grades? Is the pressure internal or external?
8. How do you evaluate the intellectual atmosphere? (appealing, unappealing; how you think you would fit in?)
Social Atmosphere
1. Does the social life revolve around the campus or do most people leave on weekends?
2. Does the college provide sufficient and varied social activities? Are there social opportunities off-campus? (concerts, movies, dances)
3. Are opportunities and facilities for socializing readily available (i.e. living rooms and eating facilities in dorms, student center, etc.)
4. What percentage of students belong to sororities/fraternities? How important are they to social life?
5. Do the students seem friendly? Have they been helpful to you?
6. Does there seem to be a "typical" student? If so, how would you characterize him/her?
7. Is there school spirit? Do students seem to be happy here?
8. How do you evaluate the overall social atmosphere? (appealing, unappealing; how do you think you would fit in?).
Room and Board
1. Does the appearance of the campus please you? Are the buildings/grounds well-maintained?
2. What are the living arrangements for freshmen? (single-sex/co-ed dorms, singles/doubles/triples/quads, quiet dorms, substance-free dorms, etc.)
3. What are the living arrangements for upper classmen? Are upper classmen guaranteed space on campus? Is it typical for upper classmen to live off campus?
4. Where do students eat? What kind of meal plans are available? What do students say about the food?
5. Are freshmen allowed to have cars on campus?
6. What role do athletics play in campus life? Consider both intercollegiate and intramural sports as well as athletic facilities for all students.