One major factor in your college search process is the campus itself. You are essentially choosing your home for the next four years, and potentially a place to live post-graduation. Your preferences play a significant role in selecting the university that’s right for you. Visiting college campuses in person can make the process much easier.
Additionally, it’s an opportunity to ask questions and get accurate answers. You can start simple by visiting nearby college campuses: DePaul, Northwestern, and Loyola are only a train ride away. Even if you’re not interested in these particular universities, seeing their campuses can broaden your perspective and help you better understand what you like and dislike.
It’s also important to visit colleges outside of Illinois. There are nearly 6,000 colleges in the U.S., and each one will leave a different impression on you. Comparing and contrasting the differences between each is essential. An official campus tour will allow you to see every aspect of the school worth considering. While visiting, be sure to keep a few components in mind.
Location
Begin by categorizing universities by regions you’re interested in: the South, the Midwest, the North, and the West. It is essential to consider how far the distance is from home, especially if you want to stay close by. Take into account the weather as well because you will regularly be walking to your classes, which can take on average, 5 to 20 minutes. Moreover, it is good to find time to scope out the campus on your own and distinguish suitable places for studying and activities.
Size
The size of the school can have a big impact on a student’s college experience, as it affects classroom size and academic opportunities. Universities can be classified into three categories: small schools with fewer than 5,000 students, medium schools 5,000 and 15,000, and large schools with more than 30,000 students. Each size has its pros and cons. Smaller schools often offer a stronger sense of community and more hands-on learning experiences, while larger schools may provide a wider range of extracurricular activities and potentially more connections for career services.
Housing
College can be a significant financial burden, so it’s essential to consider housing costs, as they add up quickly. It’s also important to explore financial aid options if needed. On some campuses, housing is located close to the academic buildings, while on others it may be farther away. Generally, most colleges require students to live on campus for the first year or two. After that, finding off-campus housing can be difficult, especially if the college is located in a large city with limited space.
Athletics
If you’re interested in attending a university that is deeply involved with sports, consider those in major conferences like the Big Ten, SEC, ACC, and others. Specifically, football games are a big part of the culture at many universities, and tailgating plays a huge role in the school pride. For many, they enjoy the tradition of gathering before the game, dressing in school colors, listening to music, enjoying food, and praising the athletes and coaches. It’s all part of the vibrant school spirit, which some people enjoy more than others.
Greek Life
Joining a sorority or fraternity can allow more opportunities to make friends, build connections, and get involved. Some universities have a stronger Greek life presence than others, so it’s vital to consider schools that align with your interest in Greek life. If you’re not as interested in rushing, attending a school with less emphasis on Greek life may be a better fit. Additionally, depending on how intrigued you are by joining Greek life, maintaining a balance between friends in Greek life and those outside of it is important as well.
When narrowing down your college list, it is important to weigh your top priorities and identify the factors that will matter most in your final decision. Typically, you will recognize what campuses you could envision yourself at and which campuses you couldn’t. Therefore, when it comes time to apply, you’ll have a greater sense of what you’re looking for.
