Why the Holidays Are the Perfect Time To Visit Colleges

Kendra_Solis

The holidays are a time for family, food, and…college visits? It may not sound like the most festive activity, but winter break is a secret weapon in the college search. As parents and guardians, we know how valuable a campus visit is, and a holiday trip can offer a different, and often more revealing, perspective.

Here’s why a holiday college visit can be the perfect present for your college-bound teen:

1. You'll Get a Glimpse of "Real Life"

While a tour on a busy weekday during the school year is great, it can also be overwhelming. A holiday visit offers a more authentic, unscripted look at the college and its surrounding community.

• See the Town, Not Just the Campus: With fewer students on campus, you have a better chance to see the surrounding community. What is the town like when it's not buzzing with students? Is it still lively, or does it feel empty? This is a great time to check out local coffee shops, parks, and restaurants that your student might frequent.
  
• A "Dorm-to-Class" Walk in the Elements: Is the campus easy to navigate in the cold or rain? What are the walking paths like? This might seem minor, but it's a huge factor in a student's daily life. A visit in the middle of winter can give a realistic sense of what life is like on a cold January morning.

2. More Time for Deeper Connections

During the academic year, admissions offices are often swamped. During the holiday break, your family may have more flexible schedules and the admissions staff might have more time for personalized attention.

• More Access, Less Rush: While the college might have fewer scheduled tours, this can actually be an advantage. You can often explore the campus at your own pace without feeling rushed by a tour group.
• The Power of a Self-Guided Tour: Grab a campus map and wander. Visit the dining hall to see what's on the menu, check out the library to see where your teen could study, and peek into academic buildings. You'll get a real feel for the campus's personality.
  

3. Perfect Time for Reflection and Planning

The holidays are a natural time for reflection, and a college visit can be a powerful catalyst for conversation with your student.

• Compare and Contrast: If your student is visiting multiple schools, this can be a great time to compare the different vibes. You can use the trip to have conversations about what they liked and didn't like.
• Visualize the Future: The goal of a visit is to help your teen see if they can picture themselves at that school. A holiday visit can spark a conversation about their future and what they truly want from a college experience.

A Quick Tip: Before you go, be sure to check the college's website for their holiday schedule. Many admissions offices have limited hours or are closed on specific days. Call ahead or check their online calendar to make sure you make the most of your visit.

For more tips on how to make the most of a college visit, check out this guide from The College Board: When to Visit Colleges.

What's the best campus visit you've ever had? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!