20 Questions

Questions to Ask on Campus Tour

Essential questions to ask during campus tours to learn about student life, academic opportunities, and whether the college is the right fit for your educational goals.

1

What is the typical day like for a student here?

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Why this works

Gives you a realistic picture of daily student life while learning about class schedules, study time, and how students balance academics and activities.

2

What are the most popular majors and programs at this college?

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Why this works

Shows academic interest while learning about the college's strengths and whether they offer programs that align with your interests.

3

How do students typically get involved on campus?

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Why this works

Important for understanding student engagement while learning about clubs, organizations, and activities that can enhance your college experience.

4

What is the housing situation like and what are the options?

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Why this works

Critical for understanding campus life while learning about dormitory options, living arrangements, and housing policies.

5

How accessible are professors and what is the student-faculty interaction like?

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Why this works

Important for understanding academic support while learning about faculty accessibility, office hours, and mentorship opportunities.

6

What study spaces and resources are available to students?

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Why this works

Shows understanding of academic needs while learning about libraries, study areas, and academic resources that can support your learning.

7

How do students typically handle academic challenges and what support is available?

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Why this works

Important for understanding academic support while learning about tutoring, counseling, and other resources for students who need help.

8

What is the campus culture like and how do students interact with each other?

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Critical for understanding social life while learning about campus atmosphere, student relationships, and whether you'll fit in socially.

9

What opportunities exist for research, internships, or hands-on learning?

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Why this works

Shows academic interest while learning about practical learning opportunities that can enhance your education and career preparation.

10

How do students typically get around campus and what transportation options are available?

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Why this works

Important for understanding campus logistics while learning about walking distances, transportation, and accessibility across campus.

11

What dining options are available and how do meal plans work?

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Why this works

Important for understanding campus life while learning about food options, meal plans, and dining facilities available to students.

12

What safety measures and security are in place on campus?

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Critical for understanding campus safety while learning about security measures, emergency procedures, and how the college ensures student safety.

13

How do students typically handle stress and what wellness resources are available?

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Why this works

Important for understanding student support while learning about counseling services, wellness programs, and mental health resources.

14

What technology and digital resources are available to students?

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Why this works

Shows understanding of modern education while learning about computer labs, software access, and digital learning resources.

15

How do students typically balance academics with social life and activities?

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Why this works

Important for understanding student life while learning about how students manage their time and priorities.

16

What opportunities exist for leadership development and student government?

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Why this works

Shows interest in personal growth while learning about leadership opportunities, student government, and ways to develop leadership skills.

17

How do students typically handle financial challenges and what resources are available?

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Why this works

Important for understanding financial support while learning about financial aid, scholarships, and resources for students with financial needs.

18

What is the college's approach to diversity and inclusion?

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Why this works

Shows understanding of campus values while learning about their commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students.

19

How do students typically prepare for life after college and what career services are available?

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Why this works

Shows understanding of career preparation while learning about job placement, career counseling, and resources for post-graduation planning.

20

What advice would you give to incoming students to succeed at this college?

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Why this works

Shows respect for their experience while learning about their insights and advice for succeeding academically and personally at the college.

Making the Most of Your Campus Tour

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Best Practices

Ask Specific Questions

Ask questions that can't be answered by looking at the website. Focus on student experiences, campus culture, and practical aspects of student life.

Observe the Environment

Pay attention to the campus atmosphere, student interactions, and overall vibe. This can give you insights into whether you'll feel comfortable and happy there.

Talk to Current Students

If possible, talk to current students about their experiences. They can provide honest insights about what it's really like to attend the college.

Example Scenarios

Understanding Daily Life

Ask: 'What is the typical day like for a student here?' This gives you a realistic picture of daily student life and how students balance academics and activities.

Exploring Academic Opportunities

Ask: 'What opportunities exist for research, internships, or hands-on learning?' This shows academic interest while learning about practical learning opportunities.

Assessing Campus Culture

Ask: 'What is the campus culture like and how do students interact with each other?' This reveals the social atmosphere and whether you'll fit in socially.

Common Pitfalls

Not Asking About Challenges

Don't only ask about positive aspects. Ask about challenges, difficulties, and what students struggle with to get a realistic picture.

Focusing Only on Social Life

Don't focus solely on parties, sports, or social activities. Ask about academics, support systems, and career preparation as well.

Not Observing the Environment

Don't just ask questions without observing the campus atmosphere, student interactions, and overall environment.

Question Templates

Daily Life: 'What is the typical day like for a student here?'
Academics: 'What are the most popular majors and programs at this college?'
Involvement: 'How do students typically get involved on campus?'
Support: 'How do students typically handle academic challenges and what support is available?'
Culture: 'What is the campus culture like and how do students interact with each other?'

Additional Resources

Research the college's programs and culture before the tour
Prepare specific questions about your interests and goals
Observe the campus atmosphere and student interactions
Talk to current students about their experiences
Take notes during the tour for later reference

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