KATHMANDU:

When going to visit schools there are certain things you should keep in mind to make it more fruitful and make sure that you go to the best campus. Here are a few things you should keep in mind.

Talk with people who have gone to the institution and arrive with an open mind. If you plan to visit several campuses, take notes.

Have an idea what you’re looking for before you visit. Students should try to figure out what they want in a college and why before they come and observe all they can to find out.

Take the tour, but also take time to go beyond first impressions. Schedule enough time to arrive before the tour starts and walk around.

Then take the ‘official tour’ with an idea of what you hope to learn, prepare questions in advance. It is sometimes hard to do so with parents around, so taking the tour without parents might be a good idea.

The qualities that do impress students include honesty and friendliness, students may choose colleges because the students seemed real, and they had genuine love for their campus, so this could be a big sign to join in.

Find out about the campus culture. A copy of the student newspaper, some experts suggest, can tell you a lot. Students belonging to underrepresented ethnic, religious, and cultural groups should find out whether the campus environment supports their needs.

Look for consistency in the message presented. Ask the same question to several people on the visit, you need to know if you are being told the truth about the campus.

Do and see as much as you can, but plan in advance for special meetings or classes. If you want to talk with faculty or coaches or want to sit in on a class, schedule your visit in advance.

Get a feel for the surrounding area. The surrounding environment and the location of the campus can give you an idea about what the campus is going to be like, so do make a tour of the surrounding environment as well.

Dress appropriately, to make a good impression. Casual is fine, but a neat appearance is much appreciated and shows respect. Wear something you don’t have to worry about.

Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you aren’t when you visit. If you do decide to go to that school, people will remember how you acted.

Be courteous. Be it with the students, teachers or people in the administration be courteous. — Agencies