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 x2: July 7

Schools are out now and summer is well underway! While I might not want to go back to being a kid, I do miss days when it seemed like summer lasted forever! Time really did move at a different pace then. Hope everyone can stop and savor the special moments of their summer.

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

UNC FIRES PROFESSOR THEY SECRETLY RECORDED

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill gave notice to Professor Larry Chavis that his contract would not be renewed. In April, they notified him that they had recorded his lecture without his knowledge or permission. When Professor Chavis asked for a meeting to discuss the matter further, and wanted to know the reasons why he was under investigation and his contract was not renewed, the university said they would schedule a meeting, but never did. Professor Chavis is a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and an advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQ rights.

EMERSON AND HAMPSHIRE COLLEGES ANNOUNCES SERIOUS CUTS

Blaming the student protests, the botched FAFSA roll-out and implementation, and low enrollment numbers, Emerson College announced layoffs of faculty and staff and cuts to any new hiring. College president, Jay M. Bernhardt, said in an email that the incoming class that deposited was “significantly below what we had hoped.” Hampshire College in Amherst, MA, also announced cuts to their staff benefits, citing many of the same reasons. Small colleges across the region face some of the same threats, simply because there are fewer and fewer students as the population of graduating seniors declines across the country.

SAT AND GRE TEST ADMINISTRATION COMPANY FLOUNDERING

ETS (Educational Testing Service, the long-time administrator of the SAT, AP, GRE, and TOEFL exams) has offered all employees who have been there a minimum of two years a buy-out. The decline in both SAT and GRE test-takers have caused serious problems for the company, and they recently signed a new contract with the College Board in which they would no longer administer the SAT. Originally, that was 30% of their revenue. An anonymous source said that employees were devastated, noting that “folks [were] earnestly sharing self-harm and suicide-prevention hotlines” within hours of the news.

MORE CONCERNING SHENANIGANS HAPPENING WITH THE  TESTING COMPANIES.

Two weeks ago, we shared the news that the Department of Education has hired the president of the College Board to oversee the continued work on the FAFSA. Well, we have since learned that a second College Board executive, Chief Information Officer Jeff Olson, is joining the DOE team. Like Jeremy Singer, Jeff Olson will take a leave of absence from the College Board for the duration of his time at DOE, and then will return to the company. Many are concerned about how student data and privacy will be handled, given how the College Board hungers for such information to do its business. There are also concerns related to possible conflicts of interest related to the College Board’s financial aid platform, the CSS Profile. Many private colleges and universities use the CSS Profile alongside the FAFSA to determine student aid packages.

CONSTRUCTION OF 25K-SQUARE-FOOT RECREATIONAL FACILITY BEGINS AT GMU

George Mason University has broken ground on an $11 million new recreational facility, set to be open by the Spring 2025 semester. The Activities Community Wellness Center will be home to the Green Machine pep band, and will also contain a full-sized basketball court for intramural games, other activity courts, yoga and exercise spaces, offices, conference rooms, and storage.

VILLANOVA BEGINS RENOVATION OF NEWLY ACQUIRED CABRINI UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

Villanova University will begin work at Cabrini University after officially assuming ownership of the 116-acre campus on June 28th. The Radnor, PA campus will be closed for a minimum of two years before reopening as the "Villanova University Cabrini Campus.” Villanova announced their plan to take over Cabrini University last November, after the small, 67-year-old school was unable to bounce back from financial woes as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Cabrini held their final commencement this spring. Founded by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and named after the first American naturalized citizen, Saint Mother Frances Cabrini, the university had a core curriculum centered on social justice and was one of the first schools to make community service a graduation requirement.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

We have talked a lot about teens and social media. Its pervasiveness and brain-rewiring algorithmic powers are not really in dispute any longer, but there is a deeper and darker side to it than most adults know — and that’s quite terrifying. This article from Rolling Stone provides an in depth look at Snapchat, the role it plays in connecting teens (and young children) to the world of drugs and sex, and how there is almost nothing law enforcement can do. Cute filters aside, it seems that Snapchat may offer a very different experience for its users based on age, dangerously so.

Some busy high school students can only fit campus visits into their calendars over the summer. These can still be valuable experiences, even though the campus environments may not be teeming with students as they are during the academic year. Almost every college has summer school, and so visitors will still have the chance to observe some sense of the student experience that way. It’s also important to note that there may not be as many tours during the summer, however, as that tends to be when admissions staff take their vacations. And, depending on the school, visitors might not be able to see a specific building like a particular dorm or lab, so it’s important to ask the school how a summer visit may differ from a fall or spring visit.

This article offers a nice guide to how to get the most out of a visit and also shares a great point that sometimes a visit will come after being accepted — and that’s ok. As always, no matter when the visit takes place, try to make it an official one. This means signing up with the admissions office and attending school-sponsored programming, not just taking a casual walk around. After your tour has concluded, though, we often recommend asking random students you come across why they chose that school, what they like about it, and what they would change. Most students are happy to give you a fair and honest assessment based on their experiences.

A new study has come up with a list of some of the best choices of majors that are most likely to snag students a stable job post-graduation. It will be of no surprise that majors like engineering, nursing, medical technology, plant and animal sciences and education lead to some of the most reliable jobs. Students majoring in the humanities ended up struggling to find work and often the work found is relatively low-paying. Sadly, art history majors had the highest rates of unemployment.

But what the study also found was that the jobs in industries with low employment rates were also ones where people became burned out and people were simply less satisfied because of the lack of work-life balance. Choosing a major can be challenging because of the pressure to have a “good job for a stable future”, but it’s important to also spend time thinking about what will bring contentment. Of course, there is no reason a teenager would know the answer to this question now, especially when adults don’t even know that for themselves!

So how can we let students know that it’s ok to not have the answers; to be able to sit with the unknown? The future is made up of things — jobs, careers, professions — that don’t even exist yet, so maybe we give them space to learn not only a specific trade, but also critical thinking and problem solving skills. Maybe we do everything we can to instill true love of learning and discovery — a genuine “growth mindset” so that when they need to pivot in the future (and I have no doubt that they will need to!), they can. As quickly as things are changing, I suspect that the ability to turn on a dime and head in a new direction will be the gold standard of a truly educated person — or perhaps it always has been.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As schools have ended for the year, juniors might now be thinking of themselves as seniors — or “almost seniors”! We have been busy finishing up the Rising Senior Meetings with students and their parents. This is when a student finalizes their college list, with their parents’ blessings, and we help make sure it’s a solid and balanced list of schools. Students are also very busy working on their Common App(R) essays and preparing for their supplemental essays. We love seeing the creativity and self-reflection that our students are finding within themselves!

To read more about testing and the college board, check out these posts!

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!

Four Plans High School Juniors Should Make This Month

Hey Juniors, we’ve got plans for you this month! February is an important time to “get the ball rolling” on your college admissions process. In fact, there are a few sneaky deadlines creeping up that we don’t want to pass you by. To help you get organized, we’ve put together a list of four big college plans you should make this month. So break out your Google calendar and to-do lists, and get to work!

plan #1: sat or act registration

It might feel like only yesterday that you took the PSAT, but now it’s time to sign up for the real deal. Don’t let February slip by without registering for the SAT or ACT. There are a few testing dates available throughout the spring and early summer. Registration typically closes 4-5 weeks prior to a test, so make sure to sign up early! 

As you consider your options, weigh your academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments. For example, will you have to study for five AP exams this spring? Then maybe the May 6th SAT isn’t the best date for you. Are you already enrolled in a soccer camp that conflicts with the June 10 ACT? Well, then you better sign up for the April test.

Still not convinced you need to register now? Then check out this reality check. The registration deadline for the March SAT is Friday, February 10: that’s only eight days away! 

plan #2: standardized testing study schedule

Once you’ve got your SAT or ACT testing date on the calendar, take some time this month to devise your study plan. You might even want to gather some friends and start a study group. If you need help getting yourself organized, the College Board has information on how to set up an SAT study group and provides a sample study plan. For those planning to take the ACT, there are free study resources available here. We also love Khan Academy, which offers plenty of guidance for both tests. 

If you are interested in adding a prep course or tutor to your study plan, research your options now! Classes and tutors book up quickly during the spring, and we are happy to recommend tutors and courses that have been helpful to our students in the past (private tutoring is without question the best way to prepare if it’s in the budget!).

plan #3: spring break college Visits

So many families wait until summer to begin touring colleges, but did you know that spring break is an ideal time for campus visits? With school still in session, you’ll be able to experience the “hustle and bustle” of college life at the height of the semester. The crowds of students in the quad, the vibrant classrooms, the events in the Student Center- they can all give you a good sense of campus culture and environment. 

College visits can also be useful as you continue to build and refine your college list. When you experience campuses for yourself, you get a better idea of what you like - and don’t like- and which factors are most important to you in a school. 

There is also no question that students who go on in-person visits have a much easier time (yes, that’s italicized and underlined for a reason) with their “Why this school” essays! Michigan and Wisconsin might seem the same from online info sessions, and while those can be very useful in their own right, it can be hard to capture a sense of place - or in teenage speak, “a vibe” - from that type of programming. On the other hand, in-person visits will help you discover the nuances of different environments. There’s nothing like walking through the tunnel onto the field at The Big House or enjoying Babcock ice cream while watching the sun set across Lake Mendota!

Don’t worry, though, if you don’t have much time or can’t coordinate a long-distance trip. You can always schedule a spring tour at a local college. It might not be at the top of your list (or maybe not on your list at all), but the school can still provide valuable points of comparison for the future.

plan #4: Summer opportunities

Now that the idea of college is starting to feel really real, you’ll want to think about how you can use your summer to prepare for the future. Whether you want to gain experience doing medical research in a lab or explore the field of journalism, there’s an opportunity for just about every interest. Visit our database for comprehensive lists of teen internships, volunteer projects, and pre-college programs available for Summer 2023.

Some of our most recent postings include an opportunity to work for NASA and to conduct research on psychological traumas. Pretty cool, huh? The only problem is that deadlines are approaching fast. Many programs will close their applications in mid to late February, so get to work on those summer plans! 

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!

Sorry, JMU! I tried!

I love college visits, and almost always leave campus thinking: “WOW, I want my kids to go here someday” or “No, this one is even better!” It’s rare that I leave a visit without a smile on my face - there are so many great colleges out there and it’s really hard to pick a favorite. I love playing the “If I were going to college today, where would I go?” game with myself!

With that said, it’s pretty rare for me to finish a visit feeling less-than-impressed. For a while, every time I had a visit that didn’t knock me out of the park, I questioned myself a little bit - especially if it was a school that had rave reviews from others.

Prime example: JMU. Every time I visited the campus, I’ve blamed one reason or another for the fact that I didn’t like it. After all, disliking JMU feels sort of disloyal as a college counselor based in Virginia! It’s a really good school, they have some wonderful programs and opportunities, and they are a perfect distance from our area - and my former students there are so happy. And I can’t forget the amazing food!

So, the first time I visited on a blazing July day, I decided that I didn’t like it because it was just too hot. Not a great way to see a school. Then it was raining - definitely a bummer. Nobody likes a school in the rain. Well, the third visit - on a gorgeous day - solidified the fact that it’s not the weather, it’s JMU. I’ve finally come to terms with the fact that I just don’t like the place. I really want to like it, but I don’t. There- I’ve said it!

My most recent visit in April - a GORGEOUS day but that didn’t make a difference.

First, I think it’s a very unattractive campus. A pretty campus means a lot to me, and I wouldn’t personally feel the need to settle if I was comparing options for myself - there are so many other amazing schools that also have gorgeous campuses. I was trying to describe JMU’s aesthetic to someone the other day and explained that it kind of reminds me of mid-90s construction (so many palladian windows- which of course I did not capture in a photo!!) meets corporate campus meets industrial park meets traditional bluestone. The quad is very pretty but the rest of the campus just falls flat to me. Not to mention, the buildings surrounding campus vaguely remind me of post-Civil War dilapidation! I just really don’t like the atmosphere.. and I’m not even going to mention the dorms!

I do like the quad!

Sorry, but this is not a pretty library. I just want to attack it with a power washer.

The Honors College -this building is pretty.

Next, I think that the public streets (and even a highway!) running through campus make it feel very choppy and disjointed. This bothers me a lot.

Finally, I absolutely hate Harrisonburg. While I’m a fan of the drive-through Starbucks, I think Harrisonburg would be a pretty unappealing place to live, especially coming from our area. I feel like it’s just seen better days… about 150 years ago! I wish I had taken some photos of the surrounding area but anyone can find them online.

Why am I writing all of this out? Well, I learned from the experience, and I hope you can learn from it too.

First of all, I realized that I just had to follow my gut. If you don’t like a school, don’t force it. Yes, factors like rain can make a huge difference, but at some point you have to trust yourself. I’m obviously not visiting for the purpose of making my own college decision, but most students and parents visiting colleges WILL be. So, trust yourself. This is a big decision and if you don’t like the school, even for superficial reasons, that’s ok. There are so many options.

Secondly, and this is sort of along the same lines, everyone’s individual opinion is based on their own background and preferences. Don’t think too much about what friends or classmates like or dislike about a school. This is YOUR decision.

Lastly, campus visits are a must. Today we have virtual tours, ratings, reviews, you name it - but there’s not really a substitute for a good old-fashioned visit to campus. Maybe you will absolutely fall in love with JMU, like thousands and thousands of other students- but you won’t know until you go see it for yourself!

College Visits: What to Wear?

Of all of the advice that I could provide about the many different topics relating to college visits, this is what I write about? Truth be told, though, I would estimate that about 3/4 of the parent-student fights relating to college visits revolve around what to wear!

The parent that embarrasses their student with too many questions on the tour is definitely in second place, and I’ll get to that another day! (Pro tip, and I’m looking at you, dads: don’t grill the tour guide about boys spending the night in dorm rooms. Your daughter will never forgive you. Save it for a private, anonymous phone call to the residence life office!)

In any case, since I’m all about stepping in to be the bad guy, I’m happy to discuss appropriate outfits. Parents and students: free to screen-shot this and show it to one another instead of fighting!

TAILOR YOUR OUTFIT FOR THE VISIT

I am writing this particular post for a typical visit involving a campus tour and information session, because most colleges do not provide on-campus interviews anymore. I realize there are still plenty that do (Wake Forest, W&M, etc.), but the majority do not. If you are attending an interview on campus or meeting with a professor, I would advise taking it up a notch.

DON’T OVER-DRESS!

I know it sounds silly, but this is the biggest mistake that I see. In news that will shock absolutely no one, I find that teenage boys are the one group that is not at fault for this particular issue :) However, I do see it a lot with girls and parents (or boys whose parents picked out their outfits).

For girls, it’s primarily about the shoe. Most of you cannot walk in heels, which is okay. You are a teenager and no one expects you to have extensive experience with heels! At best, you will look kind of silly if you show up to a campus hobbling around in shoes that make it difficult for you to walk. Worst case, you will look like you have no common sense. At the same time, you don’t have to wear a pair of grungy sneakers, either: find a comfortable flat. I personally LIVE in Rothy’s on college visits and even better, they are eco-friendly! If you are set on sneakers for the tour, that is fine as long as they are clean and you swap them out for something dressier for the information session.

For parents, I’d really try to avoid wearing a suit. I know this can be tempting, but think business casual, or even a cross between casual and business casual. If you wear a suit, you will stand out. In general, you want to avoid standing out and you just want to blend in with the group. I promise that when a tour guide comes back to talk about a parent that stands out, it’s not in a positive way. By the way, the “no heels” rule does not apply to moms. Typically, a grown woman who would choose to wear heels on a campus tour is used to walking in them, so that’s fine.

I’m going to throw the boys in here too - please, please, do not force your son to wear a suit. He will look silly and out of place. This is even worse than you wearing a suit, because at least you will likely look comfortable. More on what he should wear later.

DON’T UNDER-DRESS!

Yes, I had to say it! Just because you don’t want to overdress doesn’t mean under-dressing is okay, either. It’s not. Anything ripped or torn (even fashionably so) is off limits. Certainly, nothing objectionable. I’d put the MAGA hat away, or basically any hat for that matter. In general, if a shirt has words written on it, it’s probably not appropriate to wear. Jeans are fine as long as they are “nice” and in good condition.

Also, make sure that your clothes are pressed and clean. The same khaki shorts and collared shirt will present very differently if they are wrinkled vs. straight out of the dry cleaning bag. I would strongly advise wearing a different outfit in the car if you are taking a car ride longer than an hour or so. Wear something comfortable and then stop at a Starbucks near campus to change. Even if you have a shorter car ride, you may want to err on the side of caution and bring a change of clothes just in case you spill something on yourself. I am notorious for spilling iced coffee (what can I say!) so i always have a change of clothes ready.

CONSIDER LAYERS

Especially if your visit will take place during spring break when the weather is unpredictable, make sure to consider layers. Even if you don’t want to hold extra options with you, keep them in the car. Particularly if you are visiting multiple schools in the same day, it’s very possible that the day will start off cool, become warm, and then end cool again. You don’t want to freeze or melt!

TRY EVERYTHING ON IN ADVANCE

Don’t wait till the morning of the trip to pick out your outfit. Set it all out on your bed a few weeks in advance, so you have time to buy something new if needed. I would recommend laying out everything that you’d like to wear and making sure that it all looks good paired together (including shoes and any accessories), and then once you have it all picked out, try it on to make sure it fits well. This is really important, as you could wear the nicest, cleanest, most appropriate outfit and it will not look good if it doesn’t fit. Think Goldilocks: avoid clothing that is too big or too small, and shoot for “just right.” Also, if you have any doubts about how something will fit while walking (i.e. a skirt that might ride up), practice walking around the block.

PREPARE FOR RAIN

College visits in the rain are the worst. If you are visiting a school locally and it’s easy to postpone your trip, you may want to do that. Otherwise, dress accordingly so that you are prepared rain or shine! If you’ve flown all the way to a school and it does rain, try not to skip the tour, as tempting as it will be. Make sure to pack rain gear and an umbrella for each person that will be touring, even if it doesn’t look like rain will be in the forecast. It’s better to be prepared, and you just know that if you lug all your raincoats somewhere, it won’t end up raining - so think of it as an insurance policy for good weather! On that note - don’t forget your sunglasses, either!

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