GIVE YOURSELF ADEQUATE TRAVEL TIME BETWEEN SCHOOLS
There is always traffic. Don't forget -- rush hours are 7-9 am and 4:30-6:30 pm.

If you are going to be late for an interview, give the admissions officer a call.

DON YOUR BEST CONSUMER GLASSES
Too often students worry about how the college will judge them, that they forget to judge the college. Kick the tires. Ask tough questions.

DEVELOP CRITICAL SKILLS CLOSE TO HOME
Before you spend money on a major trip, visit a couple of colleges in the area. Tour a large campus and a small campus. You'll see what you like and don't like, and you'll use your time on the road more efficiently.

READ BEFORE YOU VISIT
Colleges are happy to send you information. Just call. Check out their website.

Consult college guidebooks, but don't make these books gospel. The only express opinions and can be factually incorrect.

TAKE THE CAMPUS TOUR, BUT MAKE SURE TO ROAM WIDELY
Spend time with students. Ask for directions freely -- it's a great way to strike up a conversation!

GET THE SCOOP ON ACADEMIC LIFE
Visit a class. Who teaches? Regular faculty or grad students? Are the faculty excited about teaching? Are they accessible? Are the students energized?

IF THE COLLEGE SCHEDULES INTERVIEWS, SCHEDULE ONE
Call well in advance; some schools offer an overnight stay in the dorms or a meeting with a faculty member.

CHECK OUT THE DORMS, LIBRARIES & COMPUTER FACILITIES
If they interest you, visit laboratories and arts and athletic facilities. Scan student newspapers and bulletin boards for signs about college culture and the level of extra curricular activity.

NOTICE HOW WELL THE BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS ARE MAINTAINED
Both are clues into the college's financial help

MAKE SURE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE AT THE SCHOOL
Check out campus activities. Is everyone included? How about safety and security on campus?

LEAVE ROOM FOR GROWTH
You are a dynamic, changing individual and your interests, both academically and extracurricular may change. Make sure your college will grow with you.

KEEP A JOURNAL
Write things down while they are fresh in your mind. When visits are over, you will be able to compare your options more objectively.