College visits can be daunting. Your brain is on information overload from all of the facts being thrown at you. To make the most out of your visit, there are certain questions that will help you the most.

WHAT TO ASK DURING A CAMPUS VISIT

1. WHAT IS THE STUDENT-TO-FACULTY RATIO?

This question can be a huge clue as to how personal your experience with faculty might be. For example, in a class with 100 or more students, you will likely go through a teacher’s assistant to reach your professor. In a smaller class size, the professor will typically have more direct communication with you, which can lead to relationships that will assist you in your future career.

2. WHAT IS YOUR AVERAGE FINANCIAL AID PACKAGE?

Asking about financial aid can help you determine how realistic a school is for your financial situation. Financial aid is very individualized. Because of that, meeting with a financial aid specialist to hear about your own package is ideal. However, getting a ballpark number on a tour can give you a helpful (although general) idea about affordability.

3. WHAT IS ORIENTATION LIKE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS?

Most schools have an orientation day or week. The level of student involvement can vary from school to school. Cornerstone has an experience called Terra Firma. Ask about what fun and helpful events might be offered. It might ease some of your stress on Welcome Day to know what to expect.

4. WHAT IS THERE TO DO FOR FUN, BOTH ON AND OFF CAMPUS?

Academics are only one part of the college experience. When you’re not doing homework, you’ll want options for doing things with friends and getting off campus. Opportunities for fun both on campus and in the city are vital.

5. ARE THERE LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE?

Getting involved in leadership during your time at college forms your character and builds up your resume. Ask about student organizations, mentor roles, orientation leader positions and chapel worship leader positions too.

6. WHAT JOBS ARE AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS?

College is expensive. Working while in school is a necessity for many students. And having a job on campus is incredibly convenient when compared to having one off campus. You can build your network on campus and cut down on college costs. Some examples of on-campus jobs at Cornerstone, in particular, include the mail room, food service, admissions department, library and tutoring.

7. WHAT IS THE CAMPUS CRIME RATE?

This one can be a big deal—especially for parents. They want to trust that you’re in a safe place. In 2016, Cornerstone was named the safest college in Michigan by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. Try to find a school with a low crime rate and a campus safety system that is campus wide.

8. WHAT ARE THE THREE BEST THINGS ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

You want your school’s priorities to match your own. What are the three most important things to you? If your answer lines up with the best things about the school, there’s a good chance it might be the right one for you.

CONCLUSION

Whatever school you decide upon, an informed decision will make you feel more confident throughout your college decision process. Take advantage of every second on your tours. You never know what you might find out.