The best thing about visiting campuses was getting all kinds of free stuff from the admissions office! But seriously, my favorite part about visiting colleges was chatting with professors. Those discussions helped to confirm my academic interests. My only regret about my college visits is never sitting in on any classes. It would've helped me to see what a college classroom atmosphere is like. Plus, it could have made me more aware of the type of students who attend the colleges I visited.

Sheldon Good
senior

When high school students visit, colleges proudly talk about all the ins and outs of notable buildings, dorms and classrooms. But college is more than a facility. To really experience a college campus, you must spend time with several different people—from classmates to staff. Along with scheduling formal interviews with professors, you also need to simply observe what's going on around you. As you go from class to class, take note of whether students and professors nod their heads or say "Hello" as you pass. That can say a lot.

David Martinez
'08 graduate

I visited my top two schools more than once. Sometimes the second visit can have a whole different feel than the first. So, I really recommend that once you visit a school you like, go back for another visit. However, even by visiting twice, you just can't see the whole picture of a school. The college experience is just too large. It would be good to keep this in mind while looking at colleges.

Analisa Gerig-Sickles,
junior

College is obviously about classes, studying and learning, but it is also about establishing relationships and finding community. That's what I focused on during the visit. I realize now that it would have been more helpful for me to visit a few classes that sounded interesting. Sure, it's a bit intimidating to attend a class full of students you don't know, but it would have helped me get a better feel for college level courses.

Elizabeth Beachey
senior

The best advice I received before my visit was to stay overnight in the dorm. It gave me a taste of college life. I was able to hang out with students and talk to them about their experiences. It made me really excited and gave a better idea of what to expect. One more thing when you visit: Do not be afraid to ask questions!

Jenna Zehr
sophomore

Singing in choir has always been one of my favorite activities. When I visited Goshen, I made sure to stop by the Music Center. Seeing it, I knew how powerful of an experience it could be to sing in this kind of facility. Seeing the Music Center firsthand played a big part in my decision to attend Goshen. So, my advice: When you visit, make sure you keep your interests in mind and look for ways that the school will cultivate those interests.

Elizabeth Speigle
sophomore