Weekly Update: July 2

July has finally arrived – time for fireworks, family barbecues, and hopefully some time to relax! It’s also blazing hot and muggy in the DMV (and beyond), so stay cool and hydrated.

And speaking of soaring temperatures, the heat around higher education continues to build, too! Here’s your updated deep dive:

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

President of the University of Virginia Resigns

On June 27, 2025, Jim Ryan stepped down as President of the University of Virginia after months of federal pressure over the university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The U.S. Department of Justice had accused UVA of failing to fully dismantle its DEI infrastructure, and the institution was under investigation for potential civil rights violations of anti-discrimination laws. In a public letter printed in The New York Times, Ryan said he believed staying on could put federal funding, research grants, student aid, and international student visas at risk. He chose to resign rather than jeopardize those resources.

Reactions were sharply divided. Virginia Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine called the move a politically motivated overreach, and more than 100 UVA faculty members signed a letter warning about threats to academic freedom. However, many others felt the resignation was long overdue and necessary to bring UVA in line with federal law with regard to DEI initiatives. Ryan also faced significant criticism regarding his response to reports of antisemitism on campus, particularly during pro-Palestinian protests.

No matter which side of the spectrum you fall, this is a good reminder to families evaluating colleges: look beyond rankings and consider how a school is navigating the social and political pressures shaping student life.

University of California System Under Investigation

The University of California system is now under federal investigation over concerns that its efforts to boost enrollment among underrepresented students may violate the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling against race-based admissions. At issue is the U.C. 2030 Capacity Plan, which lays out goals for improving access to under-represented students to reflect California’s diversity. While the Department of Justice has major concerns about this plan, a university spokesperson says U.C. will work “in good faith” with federal officials – and insists that the plan follows the law because it doesn’t use quotas.

Florida Proposes Alternative Accreditation Body

Meanwhile, other states are challenging the accreditation process by which colleges and universities receive federal funding. Spearheaded by the state of Florida and Gov. Ron DeSantis, five Southern states are creating a new group, the Commission for Public Higher Education. This would provide an alternative approach to reviewing schools in the hopes of promoting more conservative educational practices. Their 2023 lawsuit to overturn the current setup didn’t succeed, but supporters are optimistic that the Trump administration might approve the new Commission. The plan already has the President’s endorsement.

Unemployment Impacting Recent Grads Continues to Soar

Picking up from last week’s update, unemployment among recent college grads is still making headlines – and the numbers aren’t great. For degree holders between the ages of 22 and 27, jobless rates have hit a 12-year high. When the economy gets shaky, companies often pull back on entry-level hiring, which puts new grads in a tough spot. Add in concerns about tariffs and the rise of AI, and you’ve got an especially uncertain job market for popular degree fields like IT and law. Some people are starting to question whether college is still worth it – but here’s the thing: the Associated Press points out that college grads consistently earn more and face less unemployment over the course of their lives. So if you're debating whether higher ed is a smart move, the long-term payoff still makes a pretty strong case – even if things feel a little rocky right now!

Princeton Review Drops Best Value Colleges of 2025 List

We always say to take rankings with a grain of salt, but Princeton Review’s annual Best Value Colleges list is one we actually like. Why? Because it looks at cost and long-term return on investment – not just prestige. It also recognizes that “best value” can mean different things depending on your financial situation. According to the just-released 2025 list, MIT tops the charts for students who aren’t applying for financial aid, while Williams College is the standout for those who are. Georgia Tech also shines as a top value across multiple categories for public schools. If you’re narrowing down your college list, it’s definitely worth comparing tuition costs against likely career outcomes.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

The Washington Post recently spoke with university faculty and recent grads to put a personal lens on the tough job market. With entry-level hiring largely paused and AI reshaping the workplace, many young adults feel like their side-hustles taught them more than their actual coursework (and honestly – I bet a lot of parents could identify with the lack of relevance of their undergraduate coursework, too). As one grad put it: the career path they’d prepared for just isn’t hiring. Still, others are forging ahead, taking leaps of faith – and we’re rooting for every single one of them!

In the face of all this, many grads are landing in roles that don’t quite match their expectations. And while it’s normal to take a job to pay the bills, it doesn’t mean the work has to feel meaningless. A recent article in The Atlantic outlines how you can turn any job into a calling by:

1. Looking within – focus on the fun or fulfilling parts of your job.

2. Following your curiosity – seek out tasks that genuinely interest you.

3. Being that person – help others; it's one of the most reliable ways to feel purpose.

For anyone feeling off-course – or just getting started – it’s a refreshing take on how mindset can shape experience.

On a lighter note, SFGate recently reported on Chapman University’s unique appeal to Disney fans. Thanks to its location near Disneyland, students can see nightly fireworks from campus – and yes, Disney-themed classes and projects are a thing! Some professors have even integrated park visits into their syllabi, and there's talk of launching an actual Disney Studies program. For families visiting colleges this summer, it’s a great reminder that location and local culture can seriously enhance the student experience. If you like the idea of combining a campus tour with a Disneyland visit, check out our post on Colleges with the Coolest Summer Events – we have lots of other fun combinations for you to consider!

Finally, while we're on the topic of tours – a wild story out of Virginia Tech serves as a quick reality check. Last week, 10 prospective students on a tour fell through a utility grate! Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported, but it's a reminder that even the most scenic campuses come with their hazards. As always: be curious, be observant – and maybe watch where you walk!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As many of our students dive into writing those all-important supplemental essays, we’re encouraging them to think about the unique communities and activities that have shaped who they are. Sports and summer camps are great – but leadership experience can be even more powerful (and essay-worthy!).

For our FCPS families, here’s a fantastic opportunity: Fairfax County Public Schools is now accepting applications for student members to serve on School Board Community Advisory Committees (CACs) for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a great chance to make a real impact while gaining experience in civic engagement, public service, and collaboration.

Student committee members must be current FCPS high schoolers (rising 9th–12th graders) and will serve a one-year term from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026. Members engage with their respective committees and provide feedback to the incoming Student Representative to the School Board, Faith Mekonen.

Available Committees include:

• Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee (ACEAC)

• Advanced Academic Programs Advisory Committee (AAPAC)

• Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD)

• Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC)

• Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC)

• School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC)

Interested? Apply here. The priority deadline for interview consideration is July 7, 2025 – so don’t wait!

Enjoy the rest of your week - and don’t forget to book more meetings, rising seniors! School-specific supplemental essays keep dropping!

For More Higher Ed News, Check Out Our Other Recent Weekly Updates:

Colleges with the Coolest Summer Events

It’s summer time – and while we strongly encourage families to visit college campuses during active semesters to get a better sense of campus life, we know that’s not always an option. Sometimes, your only choice is to go in the summer when the kids are out of school and you're already planning a vacation. If that’s the case, why not visit when there’s something special happening on or around campus? While these events might not be academic in nature, college summer festivals and local traditions can tell you a lot about a school’s culture and community.

Below are a few of our favorite fun-in-the-sun campus events to keep in mind – either for this summer or next:

Dillo Day – Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)

The Music Festival You Don’t Want to Miss!

Every year at the end of May, Northwestern hosts the country’s largest student-run music festival: Dillo Day. Originally inspired by May Day celebrations and organized by students from Austin, Texas in 1972, “Armadillo Day” has evolved into a full-scale production featuring top-tier artists, student-curated stages, food trucks, games, and art installations.

It’s not your typical college tour stop, but it is a revealing look at Northwestern’s vibrant student life. In recent years, the second stage has showcased an all-Black lineup curated by student groups – a reflection of the school’s ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion.

If you didn’t get the chance to experience it this May, consider planning around it next year – it’s one of the most spirited and community-driven events on campus.

Ann Arbor Summer Festival – University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)

A Month-Long Celebration of Community and Art

The Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF) is a four-week celebration every June filled with music, theater, film, visual art, family programming, and even nightly wellness events like yoga and the can’t-miss “Nerd Night.” Many events are free and take place on the University of Michigan campus or nearby venues, while others are hosted by U-M programs and alumni groups.

This is a great event to catch if you're visiting Michigan in June – or a reason to plan your visit then next year. More than just a festival, A2SF is a window into how U-M blends community, culture, and learning year-round.

National Orchestral Institute + Festival – University of Maryland (College Park, MD)

A Classical Music Showcase Worth the (Short) Drive

Every summer, the University of Maryland hosts the National Orchestral Institute + Festival (NOI+F) at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. For four weeks, talented young musicians work with world-class conductors, participate in master classes, and perform in concerts that are open to the public.

This isn’t a trip you need to plan months in advance – most of our readers are just a quick drive from UMD, making it an easy and inspiring evening out. This year’s program featured major works like Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, conducted by the iconic Marin Alsop at the Washington National Cathedral.

If you’re a classical music fan (or just want to see UMD’s arts scene in action), it’s well worth putting on your summer calendar.

Astro Nights – University of California, Berkeley (Berkeley, CA)

A Star-Gazing Spectacle

If you (or your student) are interested in astronomy, UC Berkeley’s Astro Night is a must. On the first Thursday of each month – weather permitting – the public is invited to use university telescopes, hear accessible talks from astronomy faculty, and get an up-close look at Berkeley’s world-class programs.

These monthly events are geared toward high school students and curious community members alike – a great low-pressure way to visit campus and meet some of the people behind the science. If you missed one, no worries – they happen regularly, and you can even stream past lectures online here. 

Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts – Penn State (State College, PA)

Also Known as ArtsFest – And Definitely Worth a Visit

Every July, more than 125,000 people head to Penn State for the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts – or, as most people call it, ArtsFest. From juried exhibitions and live music to street painting, book events, and vibrant sidewalk art sales, this festival is packed with energy, creativity, and community pride.

This year’s dates are July 10–13, 2025, so there’s still time to check it out if you’re making summer plans. While you’re there, don’t forget to look up the Banner Exhibition and Competition – it’s a real treat! Can’t go this year? Make a note for next summer – it’s one of the most festive and family-friendly ways to explore State College.

Campus Visits in the Summer: Quick Tips

Whether you're visiting during a festival or just trying to make the most of a quieter summer visit, a little planning can make a big difference. Sure, summer might not show you the typical campus hustle – but it can still give you a real feel for the school and its surroundings.

• Check Tour Availability: Not every college runs its full slate of tours and info sessions in the summer. Some offer limited options or fewer student guides. Double-check the admissions website and register early – summer slots can fill quickly.

• Book Lodging Early: Festival weekends and general summer travel can mean crowded hotels and limited availability. Reserve your accommodations ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.

• Explore the Town: A big part of the college experience happens beyond the campus itself. Visit the local shops, grab a bite at a popular student hangout, or check out the parks and neighborhoods nearby. You’ll get a better sense of whether the surrounding community feels like a good fit.

• Take Advantage of the Quiet: With fewer students around, you might get a more peaceful, flexible tour experience. It’s a great chance to walk the campus at your own pace, peek into buildings, and take in the vibe without the crowds.

• Have a Conversation (If You Can): If possible, try to connect with someone while you’re there – an admissions officer, professor, or even a current student. Ask what the energy is like during the school year!

Even if a summer visit doesn’t show you the full student life experience, it can still be productive. You'll get to see the campus layout, explore the local community, and have meaningful conversations without the crowds. It’s a low-pressure way to gather impressions – and it might even turn into a fun family getaway!

Want to Learn More about Campus Visits? Check Out Our Other Posts:

Weekly Update: February 6

Happy National School Counseling Week! I spent 10 years as a school-based college counselor, and as I always say, nothing makes me happier than collaborating with my school counselor colleagues.

There are things that school counselors can do for students that independent counselors cannot, and there are things that independent counselors can do for students that school counselors cannot. When families allow school counselors and independent counselors to collaborate together, it’s the best of both worlds and the students benefit SO MUCH!

Here’s a related blog post I wrote a few years ago, which delves into the differences between expectations families should have for school counselors and independent counselors.

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE REINSTATES SAT/ACT REQUIREMENT

On Monday morning, Dartmouth College announced that they will require applicants to submit standardized test scores in the upcoming undergraduate admissions cycle. When Dartmouth’s new president, Sian Beilock, started in the summer of 2023, she tapped four sociology and economics professors to complete an internal study on the use of test scores in admissions. In their January 30 memo to President Beilock, the researchers stated several key findings.

First, test scores “are highly predictive” of academic achievement at Dartmouth. Interestingly, they also “predict career success, including high levels of earnings and attendance at elite graduate schools, holding family income constant.” Second, the correlation to academic success is consistent among all demographic groups they studied (regardless of socioeconomic background). Third, they concluded that the test-optional policy currently in place “is likely a barrier to Dartmouth identifying less-advantaged students who would succeed at Dartmouth.” Finally, they conclude that the test-optional policy has not increased the number of less-advantaged applicants in the admission pool.

What is new about this study are these third and fourth points, which assert that the data shows that there were less-advantaged applicants with SAT scores in the 1400 range who did not submit those scores to be considered (the study included data and SAT scores from students who applied test-optional, but whose scores the admissions office was able to see after the admissions process was concluded). Dartmouth historically has admitted disadvantaged students with lower test scores, taking into consideration “students who are excelling in their environment.” The question becomes whether or not schools will seek more socio-economic diversity now that they are unable to use race as a factor in admission decisions, and, therefore, start to require students to submit test scores.

VIRGINIA SENATE PASSES BILL TO BAN LEGACY ADMISSION

The Virginia state legislature has taken the next step toward ending legacy preference in the college admission process. On January 23, 2024, the Virginia Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 46 which will prohibit public colleges and universities from “providing any manner of preferential treatment in the admissions decision to any student applicant on the basis of such student’s legacy status … ” The Virginia House of Delegates unanimously passed House Bill 48 on January 31, 2024. Both bills are now with the Committee of Conference and once they are reconciled into one bill, both houses will vote again. Since both bills were passed unanimously, it is expected that the reconciled bill will also pass and be sent to Governor Glenn Youngkin to sign. Governor Youngkin has indicated that he is likely to sign the bill, which would make Virginia the first state to ban legacy admissions at public colleges and universities. Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023, Virginia Tech announced a change in admissions policy to eliminate both legacy status and race from consideration when making admissions decisions. The University of Virginia reported that 15 percent of their students last year were legacy, though that statistic does not clarify how many students received preferential treatment in the admission process.

MORE ISSUES WITH NEW FAFSA IMPLEMENTATION WILL AFFECT TIMING OF FINANCIAL AID PACKAGES

Already plagued by delays in launching the redesigned FAFSA, the U.S. Department of Education Office of Federal Student Aid issued an update and revised timeline for the time needed to process FAFSA submissions. Now, the department will not begin to send students’ information to colleges and universities until the first half of March, an additional six weeks later than initially announced. In prior years, the FAFSA opened on October 1 and could deliver student data to schools in four to six weeks. As a result of the redesign and now the additional delay, most colleges and universities will be delayed in providing applicants with financial aid award packages. Many institutions of higher education require both the FAFSA and the CSS/Profile (administered by the College Board). These schools will be able to calculate “estimated” financial aid packages, but cannot finalize those until they receive the official data from the Federal Student Aid office. A handful of schools have already announced that they will extend the traditional May 1 enrollment deadline for students to make a deposit a the school they intend to attend.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT FACING MAJOR BUDGET CUTS

The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic continue to ripple across many aspects of education. This week, The Chronicle of Higher Education reported on budget cuts at the University of Connecticut—amounting to an across-the-board 15% budget cut (spread over 5 years) for every school, department, and program. Other public colleges have also seen cuts, which observers attribute to reductions in what had been an influx of Federal money during 2020 to help weather the pandemic storm. In the years since, many public colleges have relied on state legislatures to continue to provide the additional funding. Now legislatures in many states are pushing back—Connecticut, West Virginia, and Arizona, to mention a few—expecting the public colleges to find alternative sources of revenue. Faculty members and administrators say the cuts will have a big effect, perhaps none bigger than the losses of whole departments and graduate programs (including graduate teaching assistants). How this will play out over the coming five years of cuts will be interesting to watch.

PENNSYLVANIA GOVERNOR PROPOSED SWEEPING REORGANIZATION OF 25 STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro says the system of state universities and community colleges is broken and has proposed sweeping reforms to fix it. While there are no current plans to close any of the 10 state universities that comprise the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and 15 community colleges, the new plan will bring oversight under a single governing body, while allowing each to remain independent. These schools have faced significant enrollment declines and are bracing for more projected drops due to demographic changes. Pennsylvania State University, University of Pittsburgh, Lincoln University, and Temple University each receive some state funding, but are not owned by the state and will not be affected by the changes in governance.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

In the article “Why Campus Life Fell Apart,” The Chronicle of Higher Education takes a look at how the Covid-19 pandemic affected student engagement on college campuses. Past studies and analyses have found that student engagement directly impacts student success in college. When students are unable to participate in clubs, organizations, and campus activities, they do not develop the teamwork, leadership, and project management skills necessary to keep student-led extracurriculars running from year to year. Students need these clubs and organizations to make connections with other students and build a sense of community and shared purpose. Because student leadership changes yearly and many clubs and organizations did not meet for multiple years, schools need to be more involved in providing leadership training and rebuilding institutional knowledge to revive clubs and organizations and re-engage students.

While the previous article looked at the interpersonal and communication skills lost by students during the pandemic, The New York Times published the results of a national study of elementary and middle-school students’ learning loss in math and reading between 2019-2023. Overall, students have made up approximately a third of what they lost in mathematics during the pandemic while regaining a quarter of what they lost in reading, according to researchers from Stanford University, Harvard University, and Dartmouth College. This extensive study looks at cumulative learning loss across states and the country, but also presents data by school district which clearly identifies significant disparities from district to district. (This tool allows you to look at math scores by district from 2019 through 2023.) In last week’s blog post, we detailed the efforts Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, and Loudoun Counties are making to address learning loss for students in grades three through eight.

In his Forbes blog on college admissions, Brennan Barnard has asked college deans and directors of admission for their advice for students as they start the college admission process. They responded: start with self-reflection; assess your interests and strengths; explore your options by visiting local schools and accessing virtual opportunities to get to know schools; and remember that this is your journey. The deans and directors also had advice for families, especially parents: guide your student, but allow them to take ownership of the process; find the balance between encouraging your student’s self-discovery and learning and doing it for them; have an open discussion about finances and college choices; and remember to keep your student and their happiness at the forefront of the process. We agree! This is all advice we also share with students and families as we help them navigate the journey.

The U.S. Department of Education has proposed a change in how students are billed for textbooks and course materials in college. Under President Obama’s policy, colleges were allowed to include the cost of books and materials in their tuition and fees. In doing so, they were able to work directly with publishers to negotiate lower prices. Critics of the policy say that this prohibits students from finding materials and resources at lower costs. Some students like the convenience of the costs included in tuition and fees, while others say they are required to buy textbooks or materials that are seldom used in the course.

Virginia’s Attorney General has filed suit against the NCAA, alleging that the association which oversees college athletics does not have the authority to block colleges donors/boosters from enticing athletic recruits through compensation. The attorney general joins his Tennessee counterpart in asking a judge to block the NCAA rule restricting competition under the NIL, the name-image-likeness rule, which allows amateur athletes to be compensated for any use of their name-image-likeness, arguing that the rule limits competition.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

On Groundhog Day, Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow foretelling an early spring. With the nicer weather, February is a great time to visit college campuses. Whether you are considering the specific school or taking advantage of the range of schools in our area, nothing can replace an in-person tour. And as we always say — even if you don’t think your student is particularly interested in any of the schools in the DC area, these easy local visits can still be so helpful when it comes to differentiating preferences. For example, if you recognize that GW is too urban, you can very easily save yourself the trip to BU and NYU!

Some schools offer upcoming special programs for juniors, while others offer individual or group tours:

American University—February 19 Winter Preview Day

Catholic University—February 17 Cardinal Preview Day 

George Mason University—March 25 Junior Visit Day and March 1 College of Engineering and Computing Junior Visit Day

George Washington University—Schedule an In-Person Foggy Bottom Campus Tour and consider adding Discover the Arts at GW or GW Engineering In-Person Tour. 

Howard University—Schedule an Information Session & Campus Tour

University of Maryland—February 19, Discover Maryland

Have a great week!

IN CASE YOU MISSED THEM, CHECK OUT our january updates!

Small Details, Big Messages: What to Look for on a Campus Tour

When you’re touring a college campus, it’s easy to get distracted. That’s because you’re probably busy checking out the size of the dorm rooms or noting the food options in the cafeteria. Or maybe you’re gazing off down the street at the football stadium or anxiously awaiting your chance to check out the gym facilities. There’s a lot to take in, so much so that you might not always notice the details. But did you know that small details can actually send big messages about a college?

On your next campus visit, be on the lookout for these subtle clues. They will give you insight into the school culture and might just help you make important decisions about whether or not you can picture yourself there!

Advertisements

One of the best ways to really get a sense of what goes on at a college is to look at advertisements. As you tour academic buildings, student centers, and dorms, take note of bulletin boards and posted flyers, especially in entryways. These ads will show the kinds of events taking place on campus and how students are getting involved. Plus, they can help answer questions you may have about the social environment and political climate.

Classrooms

Although you may not have the chance to sit in on an actual college class, make sure you take a peek into some classrooms. These rooms can reveal a lot about the academic life on campus–if you know what to look for. First (and most obviously), take note of the size of the classrooms. Are you seeing lots of big lecture halls or smaller, more intimate spaces? Also, what type of furniture is there - and what is the layout like? Do most of them have desks, and if so, are they arranged by rows or in a circle? Do you notice any rooms with seminar tables or interactive work areas? Finally, scan the rooms for technology, so you can get a sense of how professors actually deliver their lessons.

Student Interactions

Is the cafeteria packed with students huddled around the tables? Are there groups of undergrads hanging out on the quad? Did you notice if the library study rooms are filled with people doing group projects? Has anyone said hello as you’ve passed them on the walkway? These are easy details to overlook, but don’t! Observe the ways that students interact with other members of the school community and with visitors like you. You can also learn a lot by paying attention to common areas. Notice if/how the campus layout gives students opportunities to gather and collaborate– and if they’re actually using these spaces.  

The most memorable graffiti I’ve ever seen on a college campus. It says: “Keep Baylor Baptist!” This gives an indication that there’s some secularization occurring, which could be a good or bad thing depending on an individual student’s preferences!

Signs of protest

Students everywhere have complaints, and some aren’t afraid to express them publicly! Look closely to see if you can spot signs of protest on campus: graffiti, advertisements, etc. These postings are often a source of valuable insight into the campus culture and what students care about. 

Safety

Remember that the college you’re touring could potentially be your home for the next four years. It’s important that you feel safe and secure. Yes, everyone has blue lights. But what else? As you walk around campus, look for features that would make you feel comfortable if you were strolling down these same pathways in the dark. Are the walkways well-lit? Do you see any security officers patrolling the grounds? Is there a free shuttle or escort service for students walking home late at night? And when you enter buildings, pay particular attention to how people can access them. Do students need to scan an ID card, for example? 

I was very impressed with the security on my last visit to Loyola in Baltimore. I was stopped immediately and not permitted to proceed on campus until I showed ID and a reason for my visit. At Johns Hopkins, just a mile away, nobody blinked an eye.

Just as important, take some time to explore the area surrounding the school. Remember that at many colleges and universities, upperclassmen opt to live off campus, and you’ll want to make sure there are safe options. Sometimes, nearby neighborhoods even defy stereotypes associated with the larger metropolitan area! Shout out to the City of Clayton if anyone is considering Wash U - I lived in Clayton during my last year of college (along with many other Wash U students) and it was one of the best places I’ve ever lived.

Cleanliness

Cleanliness speaks volumes! Pay particular attention to how a college maintains its spaces. Are the bathrooms clean? Do the carpets look worn out in the library? Is there a musty smell in the residence halls? Of course a college campus isn’t going to be perfectly pristine, but you can see when effort is being made to keep everything clean and up to date.

FINAL THOUGHTS

To help you keep track of all of the details on a campus tour, take notes and pictures. We promise, it’s not geeky, and it will help you later as you start to compare all of the schools you’ve visited.

If you’re interested in learning more about campus tours, revisit our blog post from last spring. We shared expert tips on when to schedule your visit, how to prepare, and what do while you’re actually on campus.

Safe campus travels!

The Advantages of Summer College Campus Tours

When it comes to summer college campus tours, it can be easy to focus on the drawbacks. Many families worry that they won’t get an accurate picture of a school when students are off campus, classes aren’t in session, and the college feels more like a ghost town. Even though you might not experience the ‘hustle and bustle’ of campus life in July and August, there are actually some great advantages to touring during the summer months.

More scheduling options

Fitting campus visits into a packed schedule during the school year can be challenging, sometimes even impossible. The summer months can provide a valuable window of time for families to organize trips, especially out-of-state visits. You also won’t be competing to book a tour during the most popular times of the year, and you’ll probably find yourself having a wider selection of dates from which to choose. BUT that doesn’t mean you can wait until the last second to schedule your tour. Be sure to visit the admissions website well in advance to register, because these do fill up quickly.

Pro Tip: If possible, coordinate a trip that allows you to visit a few schools. Doing so will make it easier to compare your experiences while maximizing your time.

Better preparation

As we discussed in a previous blog post, it’s important to prepare if you want to get the most of your campus visit. Take a virtual tour and spend time researching the school, so you won’t feel as overwhelmed by information when you actually arrive on campus. We also recommend writing down questions, either in your phone or a notebook, to ask during the tour. 

We know it can be difficult to properly prepare for visits during the school year, so take advantage of the time you have now. Without the demands of classes and homework, you’ll be able to dedicate more energy to gathering information.

Spend time in the local area

Maybe you’re looking for an urban school, but will you actually like navigating a big city? Is a small town going to end up feeling too small for you? The best way to answer questions like these is to spend time in the town or city surrounding a college campus. During the school year, families typically have just a day or two, perhaps even a few precious hours, to explore the area. But during the summer, you can transform what would be a quick stop into a mini-vacation. The extra time can help you gain deeper insights into the community and picture whether or not you see yourself calling this home for the next four years.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check the school’s admissions website to see if they offer special negotiated rates with nearby hotels. You can save a lot of money this way!

A personalized experience

A slower pace on college campuses during July and August can actually be an advantage for visitors. You might find yourself getting an individual or small-group tour, which gives you more opportunities to ask questions and get to know your guide. You may also get more face-to-face time with admissions officers, as well as faculty and students who are still on campus. Many will welcome the opportunity to share their experiences and maybe give an inside look into a cool summer program or research project taking place. 

Our final thoughts and recommendations

Although colleges may look and feel a bit different when school’s not in session, summer campus visits are still worthwhile. 

If you’re planning to visit colleges in July and August, try to visit as many on your list as possible. Doing so will help you to make more accurate judgments and comparisons, so you aren’t comparing a summer visit to one during the school year.

Still curious to learn more about the campus culture and student body? Remember that there are plenty of ways to collect more information about a school after your campus tour. Follow the college or university on social media, connect with current students, and sign up for webinars and/or live information sessions. The more you engage, the more you’ll learn!

The Return of Campus Tours

Just as the weather is changing, so are college campus policies. As we first reported back in January, more and more schools are offering in-person campus tours again. We thought it would be the perfect time to brush off our social isolation and offer some tips for visiting colleges and universities!

First of all, why are campus tours important?

Over the past two years, colleges and universities have become very good (and creative) at providing virtual options for prospective students. Webinars, 3D tours, and Zoom meet-and-greets make it easier than ever for you to learn about a school with just the click of a button. While we love the flexibility of these virtual opportunities—and definitely encourage students to take advantage of them—we also recommend visiting college campuses whenever possible.

Campus tours allow you to experience the campus environment in a way that a screen just can’t capture. As you walk the pathways, meet current students, and visit the array of buildings, you’ll hopefully be able to sense whether or not you can picture yourself there. These visits also give you a chance to talk to faculty, staff, and undergrads and discover details about the school that might never be posted online. 

Pro Tip: Look for any type of protest signs, if you can find them. There are students with grievances everywhere, and complaints can generally offer insight into campus culture.

The most memorable graffiti I’ve ever seen on a college campus. It says: “Keep Baylor Baptist!” This gives an indication that there’s some secularization occurring, which could be a good or bad thing depending on an individual student’s preferences!

When should I tour a college?

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: start early! Winter and spring of junior year are great times to start researching schools and touring campuses. Visits can help you refine your college search and determine the factors that are most important to you. 

Summer is also a popular time for families to travel and visit colleges. Just be aware that college campuses can look different when school’s not in session. If possible, consider booking your tour for late August when many colleges and universities have already begun their fall semester. Or visit all of your schools during the summer so that you are at least making apples-to-apples comparisons.

One caveat about timing - if you are a student that anticipates a major shift in grades or test scores, either tour on the later side or err on the side of caution as you decide which schools to visit. A 300-point increase on the SAT is certainly possible, but you can’t bank on it until you have that score report in hand.

How do I prepare for a tour?

First of all, you’ll need to book your tour. We recommend scheduling your visit as far in advance as possible to ensure you get a spot. As you can probably imagine, high school spring break weeks are popular times for campus tours, and these slots fill up quickly! 

You’ll also want to do your research! Spend some time learning about the school, taking a virtual tour, and writing down any questions you want answered while you’re on campus. Yes, we know that this might sound repetitive since you’ll tour campus in person and get all of the facts then, but trust us! Your preparation can help you keep track of the things you want to focus on during your visit and prevent information overload. 

As part of your research, learn about the town or city that surrounds the campus. It’s always a good idea to either walk or drive through the local area to get a sense of how the school is integrated into the community. 

Finally, don’t forget the often overlooked logistical details! College campuses can be confusing spaces to navigate, so make sure you know where to park (if applicable) and where you need to go once you arrive on campus. Plan to arrive early, just in case you get lost, and consider downloading a campus map on your phone. Also, confirm any COVID-related policies with the school, so your family has any necessary masks, proof of vaccination, etc. 

Pro Tip: Most schools run multiple tours at the same time, so that there are less prospective families per tour guide and the experience feels more personal. Consider splitting up your group; if you are with a parent, each of you go with a separate tour guide. It’s win-win: you gain two different perspectives, and you can both ask your own questions without risk of embarrassing the other :)

What should I wear?

We wrote on this topic back in 2019, and the advice and styles remain the same. Think business casual with a teenage twist. For the ladies: a sweater or blouse that fully covers your stomach with nice dark wash jeans (no holes or rips, please!) is a smart choice. Gentlemen, opt for nice looking jeans or khakis with a sweater, button down shirt, or polo. Since fashion trends have changed a bit since our original post, I feel the need to point out that it would be wise to avoid the “grunge” look that’s so popular right now!

What if you’re touring a campus when it’s 89 degrees and humid? Well, ditch the jeans and opt for cooler, lightweight options, like khaki shorts, polo shirts, and modest dresses. Ladies, avoid denim shorts, too-short dresses, and spaghetti straps. 

We can’t forget the footwear. You’ll be walking a lot, so comfort is key! It’s perfectly fine to wear casual sneakers, but if you plan to meet directly with an admissions officer or professor, you’ll want to bring along a pair of nicer shoes to change into. 

Here’s our list of biggest campus tour fashion faux pas:

1. High heels: They aren’t comfortable for anyone, and you’ll look like you’re trying too hard.

2. Suits: Undergraduates are notorious for dressing casually. If you show up in a suit, you’ll look out of place. 

3. Wrinkles: Creases and wrinkles can make even the nicest outfit look messy. Invest in a steamer or trip to the dry cleaner before your visit! 

4. Advertisements: Your outfit should not be a space to advertise, whether it’s a favorite band or political affiliation. Stick to neutral clothing and accessories. 

5. Mask Misfit: Chances are you’ll need to wear a mask during your campus tour. Oversized masks (like the gaiter look) can make your speech muffled and leave you quite sweaty. Opt for a light-weight disposable mask instead.

Is there proper campus tour etiquette?

While there’s no special etiquette book for campus visits, good manners still apply! Arrive early–and without coffee or snack in hand. Be sure to silence your phone and put it away. A campus tour is NOT the time to check your texts. Greet everyone with a warm smile and a confident “nice to see you.” Not everyone is comfortable with a handshake yet, so take a cue from the other person.

My etiquette faux pas - I showed up to Madison on game day against Michigan wearing a gold sweater and navy pants. Total accident!!! I am lucky I got out of there alive!

During the tour, listen to your tour guide and avoid side talks with your family or other prospective students. Ask questions when appropriate. For example, if your guide is telling you about the science building in front of you, don’t interrupt with questions about the dining hall. Don’t worry- you’ll get to the dining hall eventually. And you can always ask questions at the end of the tour as well. 

We also highly suggest taking notes during the tour. This will help you keep track of information AND will show your engagement and interest. If you can’t take notes, snap pictures. Scrolling through them later will jog your memory.

Before you leave campus, be sure to get contact information for the people who were a formal part of your visit, such as admissions officers, tour guides, etc. Follow up with thank you notes. This is also a great space to share what you liked best about the school and ask additional questions. If you need help putting together a letter, you can book a session with us. 

Are you ready to start planning your campus tours?

Visit College Kickstart for an updated list of colleges and universities that are offering on campus tours and start planning your visits today!