The thought of college – where to go or even whether to go – can seem distant, confusing or stressful when based only on brochures, books and virtual tours on school websites. You need to feel the campuses, to explore their academic buildings, dorms, and dining halls, and to ask the people who work there and go to school there what it’s really like.
College is an exciting decision – but it’s a big decision, too, that merits experiencing your options in person.
What are Explore Colleges tours like? 
Our tours are designed to be both eye-opening and fun for all
students. The days are packed with activities – from touring campuses to attending performances or cultural events — but there’s always plenty of time to relax and compare impressions of the colleges with your friends. (Check out some sample tour itineraries here.) A friendly Explore Colleges guide will be with your group at all times, so you can ask him/her questions about the schools or sites you visit (or about any individual needs you may have). We want you to be immersed in the campus environments and to leave each with an answer to the question, “Can I see myself here?”
What will I get to do on my tour?
You will walk through the campus grounds on the well-worn paths that students use to get to class, visit classrooms and labs, eat in dining halls, tour dorms and sports facilities, and hear from students and faculty about academic programs, clubs and extracurricular programs and student life in general. You’ll also be able to take pictures and notes about each school using our free College Rating Tool.
Can I ask questions?
Yes – the more the merrier! You will have many opportunities to ask questions of students and faculty and are encouraged t
o do so! Plus, there will be a list of great questions to ask in the backpacks we provide for you. We understand that group tours of colleges can be overwhelming at times, but your questions may be ones that others have, as well. And the answers may reveal deal-making or deal-breaking details about the schools.
In addition to touring campuses, what other fun things will we do?
Besides having a day or several off of school (!), you’ll be hanging with your friends, eating at restaurants or university dining halls, watching movies on your deluxe motorcoach (with bathrooms, climate control, etc.) and getting excited about your future college career. Depending on the length of your tour and the activities your school counselor has selected, you may go sightseeing, take a nature hike, visit an important landmark or museum or even go to a show or amusement park.
