3 Essential Questions to Ask on College Visits

As parents of high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, you're in a pivotal stage of your teen's academic journey. While it may seem like a whirlwind of applications, deadlines, and decisions, it's also an exciting time to explore the possibilities of college life. College visits offer a unique opportunity to see campuses firsthand and gather crucial information. However, the real challenge lies in asking the right questions to ensure your teen finds the best academic and social fit.  

Today, I’ll share three essential questions that you, as a parent, should ask on college visits. These questions will help you gain deeper insights into the college experience, ensuring that your teen’s academic, social, and mental well-being are prioritized. 

1. What Academic and Career Support Services Are Available to Help Students Succeed?  

One of the most critical aspects of any college visit is understanding the academic and career support level the institution provides. As parents, we all want our teenagers to graduate in four years, prepared to enter the workforce or pursue advanced education. The goal isn’t just about getting into college—it’s about ensuring students thrive and graduate with the skills they need to succeed.

Why This Question Matters  

Every school has a different approach to supporting its students academically and professionally. Some colleges have robust tutoring programs, peer mentoring, and writing centers; others may fall short in offering these essential services. Asking about the academic resources available will give you insight into how well the college supports its students throughout their journey.

Additionally, career services play a vital role in helping students transition from college to the professional world. Understanding what kind of internships, job placements, and networking opportunities the college offers is key to determining if the school can set your teen up for post-graduate success. The more support they receive in academics and career development, the higher the likelihood they’ll graduate on time and step confidently into their next life phase.

Questions to Ask:

- What academic support services are offered (e.g., tutoring, writing centers, peer mentoring)?

- How does the college assist students in finding internships and job opportunities?

- What percentage of students graduate in four years, and how does the school support those at risk of falling behind?

2. What Does Campus Life Look Like Outside the Classroom?

A significant part of the college experience takes place outside of the classroom. While academics are paramount, college life extends far beyond lectures and textbooks. Understanding the extracurricular activities, student organizations, and social dynamics on campus is crucial. Your teen will spend only a few hours each day in class, so what they do with their remaining time can greatly influence their happiness and development during these transformative years.

Why This Question Matters  

College is a time for exploration, personal growth, and community building. A rich campus life can allow students to develop leadership skills, form meaningful friendships, and discover new interests. Whether your teen is interested in joining clubs, sports teams, or artistic groups, understanding the social landscape is key to determining if the college will be a good fit for their personality and interests.

Some schools have active student organizations and bustling campus life, while others may have fewer options for engagement outside of academics. Understanding the balance between academic rigor and social activities is critical for ensuring your teen enjoys a well-rounded college experience.

Questions to Ask:

- What types of student organizations and clubs are available?

- How does the college encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities?

- What are the housing options, and how do they support a sense of community?

3. How Does the School Handle Mental Health and Wellness Support?

In recent years, mental health and wellness have become essential for families during college selection. The challenges of college life—academic pressure, social adjustments, and newfound independence—can be overwhelming for many students. It’s important to ask how the college supports students' mental health and overall well-being.

Why This Question Matters  

Mental health services and wellness programs should be top priorities when evaluating a college. Unfortunately, not all colleges are equipped to handle the growing mental health needs of their students. Some schools have comprehensive counseling services, wellness centers, and programs encouraging healthy lifestyles. Others may need more resources to provide adequate support.

As parents, we want to ensure that our teenagers have access to mental health resources, including counseling, stress management programs, and wellness activities. With the increase in anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns among college students, it’s essential to choose a school that prioritizes mental and emotional well-being. 

Questions to Ask:

- What mental health services are available to students?

- Does the college offer on-campus counseling and wellness programs?

- How does the school promote a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being?

How to Make the Most of College Visits

Whether attending an in-person or virtual campus tour, preparing a list of thoughtful questions can help you gather the insights you need to make an informed decision. Remember, the goal isn’t just to find a college where your teen can gain an education—it’s about finding an environment where they can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

When visiting a college, consider the following:

- Take Notes: After visiting several schools, details can blur together. Take detailed notes on your observations, the answers you received to your questions, and how the campus felt overall.

- Observe the Campus Culture: Pay attention to the interactions between students and faculty. Do students seem engaged and happy? Is there a sense of community on campus? 

- Encourage Your teen’s Input: While you’re there to guide them, your teen must be involved in the decision-making process. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings after each visit.

Remember the biggest takeaway = It's About Finding the Right Fit

The goal of college visits is to ensure that your teen finds a school where they can thrive. By asking the right questions, you'll gain the clarity needed to determine if the college supports its students academically, socially, and mentally. The answers to these three questions will help you assess whether the college fits your teen’s unique needs and aspirations.

Don’t do this alone. Let us help you and your teen! 

Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Strategic Admissions Advice, we’re here to guide you through every step of the college admissions process. Whether you're just starting college visits or are deep into the application season, we can help your family make informed decisions.  

Schedule a free Discovery Call today, and let us help you confidently navigate the college admissions journey.