Research the college ahead of time - know what their programs are, what the campus is like, etc.

Doing research on a college ahead of time is an essential part of the decision-making process for prospective students. Knowing what a college offers both academically and socially can help students decide if a school is a good fit for them. Researching what majors and minors a college offers, as well as any special programs that may be available, will give students a sense of what paths they can have at each university. Additionally, learning more about campus life - student organizations, sports teams, and on-campus activities - will provide a better understanding of whether or not it would be enjoyable to attend that school. All in all, researching before choosing the best college is key to making the right academic and social decisions.

Go on the tour with an open mind - you may not love everything about the school, but it's important to get a feel for it

When you go on the school tour, it's essential that you come with an open mind. Don't let your expectations limit you - yes, it's important to evaluate and review the facilities, but try to look at the bigger picture during your visit. Discover how the school feels inside, look at how clean it is and listen to the students’ perspectives while they tell you their stories. Many students are eager to share what they love most about their schools so listening can provide a valuable insight that could be hard to get from any other source. Remember - it's crucial to take in all aspects of a school to form an informed opinion, so when visiting any school make sure to have an open and inquisitive mind for maximum benefit.

Talk to the students who are giving the tour - they can give you an insider's perspective on what it's really like to go there

Getting an insider's perspective on what it's really like to go to a college or university is invaluable and can help you make an informed decision. When taking a campus tour, don't be afraid to ask the student guides the tough questions. From their personal experiences of coursework difficulty to opportunities for extracurricular activities and internships, the student guides can give you a firsthand account of what you should expect. Whether it be learning more about dorming arrangements or getting advice on which classes staff to take first semester, these insights from current students will surely be worthwhile for making one of the most important decisions in your life – choosing a college.

Ask questions! There's no such thing as a dumb question when it comes to choosing a college

Questions are the best way to find out what you need to know about choosing a college. Asking questions is how you learn more about potential schools, the advantages and disadvantages of their programs and even what it’s like to live on campus. Simple questions can help you narrow down your list of choices, while more in-depth ones can give you an understanding of the actual college experience before you commit. Don't be afraid to ask the seemingly 'dumb' questions or those that don't seem important - any information may prove valuable when making such an important decision about your future.