How to Review College Websites

Around this time of year, about eight years ago, my mother and older brother began the daunting task of investigating colleges of potential interest. They decided the local Barnes and Noble was the place to start - and after a solid hour, they arrived home with close to ten pounds of college guides - Petersons, Fiske, Newsweek - I'm pretty sure they had every single one available in the four, extra-large bags.

Over the next few weeks, I watched as they spent several hours thumbing through each book - comparing schools, considering the different angles each guide offered. By the end they had a better understanding of his options, a solid list of schools that he would keep an eye on, and stacks of extremely-used guides.

Three years later I began the same process - but mine did not necessitate even ONE book...

Thanks to the internet, I accomplished what took my brother weeks in just 2 days. Absolutely free, to boot - plus, not only does every single college in the US have an informational website - but these websites often have links to student reviews, as well.

The process continues to become much more efficient and balanced with each passing year - however, in order to get the most out of each website, you should follow a few best tips from a local pro, Jeannie Borin:

How to Review College Websites

So you can’t visit all the colleges where you choose to apply. The internet is a great source to do lots of homework on colleges. Visit college websites and it’s easy to be drawn into the fantastic graphics, sunny weather and smiling students. In addition to providing information on their schools, appealing to students via glorious websites is an objective colleges have to lure students into applying.

Here are some tips:

• Take notes when gazing at college websites. Keep track of things that impress you and where you see yourself as a good match for that college. A typical essay question colleges ask students is why they are a good fit for their college.
• Read the college’s mission statement. This information is generally found on the college’s “about” page. Philosophically, one can learn a tremendous amount by this statement.
• Read the campus newspaper. Students write current stories on hot topics, posting opinions and discussing relevant issues about that college. One can learn about “the pulse” of a campus this way.
• Visit student run campus websites. Look at campus events, and consider e-mailing college students who are private SAT tutors, for they may have helped many students with choosing the right college.
• Check out the academic programs. It’s a good idea to look at any core requirements the first two years. For example, if a college wants you to take lots of science classes and that’s not your thing – that may not be the college for you.

Most importantly, know yourself! What do you like and dislike? What are your strengths and weaknesses? In what kind of an environment are you most comfortable? Is this college affordable? Can this college help fulfill your career goals?
Generally admission offices will welcome phone calls. You can speak with an admissions representative and counselor to get any specific questions answered. However, it is important to visit college websites first as many of your questions will be answered on their websites.
*Thanks to Jeannie Borin, founder and president of College Connections, for her contribution again this week!

Effective College Visits

Back in the day, a majority of my college visits went something like this:

My Mother: We should go on a tour of the campus...don't forget to ask questions!
Me: Yuck. Can we go get coffee at the bookstore?
My Mother: You should talk to the students and get a feel for the school!
Me: I just want to go swimming
My Mother: Campus tour!
Me: Lunch?

In the end, I spent most of my college visits sulking around as my mother approached random students and interviewed them on the spot, one of them was even my former private SAT tutor! Occasionally, I would sneak off and visit the campus gym and check it out - but looking back, there were a lot of questions I should have asked others - and myself.

Jeannie Borin, founder and president of College Connections, offers the below checklist as a way to efficiently and effectively structure your college visits so that you leave with valuable information.

How To Make The Most of Your Campus Visits

As you visit different colleges, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the many buildings, programs and informational tours. Preparing a preplanned checklist of what you want to see and do while on campus is advantageous. Each year my staff and I tour a myriad of universities across the country. Here are some things we look for at each college we visit:

Admission Criteria

Requirements and What to Include with the Application
When to Apply
GPA & Test Scores (if required)
Scholarships Offered
Student Support/Counseling Center

Academics

Professor Availability
Popular Programs
Average Size of Class
Possible Internships Available
Study Abroad Opportunities
Available Technology
Library Facilities and Resources

Campus Life

Greek – Fraternities/Sororities
Weekend Activities
Special Campus Events
How Many Students Live on Campus? Commute?
Sporting Events
Dining Facilities
Party Scene
Campus Setting
Located of College (Urban vs. Rural)
Surrounding Community (College Town)

Look Of The College

Dorms and Nearby Housing
Lecture Halls & Classrooms
Clean, Easy Access, Transportation
Libraries
Security & Safety, Campus Police Availability
Current Building Projects
How Well Are Current Facilities Maintained?
Recreation Center
Additional Suggestions
Take a campus informational tour
Set up an interview with an admission officer
Audit a course
Speak with a professor or representative at the department in your field of interest
If you are pursuing athletics, talk to a coach in your sport
If possible, stay overnight in a dorm with a friend or relative
Pick up the campus newspaper
Spend time in the Student Union and eat in the cafeteria
Speak to students and ask questions
Find the center of campus and be an observer
Take a look at the college bookstore
Ask a student what he/she likes and dislikes about the college
Tour the community surrounding the campus
Ask yourself if you could feel at home at this college
Take lots of notes and pictures
Enjoy yourself!

Ultimately, the most important thing is finding the right match for you. Your comfort level and ability to intertwine with students and faculty will help you know what you want come decision time.

*Special thanks to Jeannie Borin, founder and president of college connections, for her contribution this week!