College Visits
Students at BCEC are encouraged
to visit colleges in years 1-4. (It is important to go before their 5th
year, as students need to start applying in the fall of their 5th
year). Students should utilize a variety
of means to research schools including the college’s website, view books,
videos, www.CFNC.org and national reviews,
such as www.Princetonreview.com in
addition to a personal visit. Feeling
comfortable, liking the student body, the academic style and the campus
atmosphere is very important for success at the school.
Students are urged to plan
vacations around college visits and to visit on Teacher Workdays so that no
absences will count against them. (Keep
in mind that a summer visit does not give a full view of what the campus is
like but it is much better than no visit at all.)
COLLEGE VISITS: PROCESS AND GUIDELINES
· Decide
with your family when you would like to visit.
·
Set
up an appointment with Ms. O'Donnell at least three days before the visit.
· Students
may pick up the College Visit Permission Form from Ms. O'Donnell or download and print here.
· The
Permission Form must be returned to Ms. O'Donnell with all required signatures.
*
If a college visit is made during the school day, the student’s record
will reflect that the student was present, but on a field trip.
Therefore, it will not count against the 5 day attendance policy if proper documentation of the visit is returned.
* Each student is allowed to have two college days during his or her junior and senior (or super senior) year.
* The counselor will not complete permission forms if the student has more than 5 absences.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE VISITING:
See this Exploring Colleges link for suggestions
on what activities, questions, and thoughts to consider when visiting a
college.
Other Suggestions:
* Call the Admissions office to
set up a tour of the campus
* Get a schedule of calendar
events prior to going to the college
* Make an appointment with an admissions
counselor (be sure to ask them how you’re A-B Tech Credits will transfer)
* Set up faculty appointments in
subject areas of interest
* Find a host for an overnight
stay
* Attend some classes
* Eat a meal in the cafeteria
* Explore the surrounding
community
* Visit the financial aid office
and talk with a financial aid counselor
* Read the student newspaper
* Scan bulletin boards around
campus
Questions that BCEC students should ask:
* What can you tell me about the study
habits, academic pressure, popular courses, availability of professors,
library resources, and computer access?
* Are there films, dances, theater
performances, art exhibits, or special lectures?
* What extra costs should I prepare for to
go to this college and live in this town?
* How effective is the campus
security?
* What are the deadlines I need to know: admissions, financial aid, etc.?
* What scholarships should I inquire about?
* What are the clubs and who belongs?
* What are the dorms like?
* Ask students what they like and dislike
about their college.