Like this post? Please share!
Parents of high school juniors and seniors with plans of attending an Ivy League school should make plans as soon as possible to tour the schools, facilities, and areas. An Ivy League education is a dream come true for most. Having excelled in high school to the point where this is a real possibility is an accomplishment in itself. The admissions processes for these schools are extensive and complex. Touring the campuses prior to applying can help narrow the list of options and reduce the stress of deciding where to apply and completing the application process.
The best time to do this is during the student’s junior and senior years of high school. Each school will provide a walking tour of its campus along with some historical information about the school. Depending on the timing of the trip and the availability of activities, students may be able to dine on campus and participate in some activities that highlight campus life.
What to Expect at Harvard University
There are two different tours available for Harvard, one on the history of the school and one for undergraduate admissions. It is possible to take both. The university is among the oldest in the country as it was established in 1636. Today, it is boasts more than 20,000 students. Be sure to stop in Harvard Yard, the campus’s heart, and stroke the foot of John Harvard while there. The Charles River offer’s some of Boston’s most scenic views and should not be missed. For a snapshot of life on the Harvard campus, check out “Harvard Time” around noon at the Science Center as the area is deluged with students changing classes at the peak of the educational day.
What to Expect at Princeton University
Harvard may be 100+ years older but Princeton University’s history and reputation are equally impressive. The 500-acre New Jersey campus is a beehive of activity for those studying the humanities, social sciences, engineering and natural science. With a 6:1 ratio of students to faculty, the student body of 7,500 receives personalized attention. Among the highlights of any campus tour is Nassau Hall, a building dating back to 1756 which house a room based on Britain’s House of Commons. Alexander Hall, the Firestone Library and the University Chapel are considered to be architectural masterpieces.
What to Expect at Yale University
Yale University has been around since the early 1700’s. The campus, which lies at the heart of New Haven, Connecticut, also offers some exciting architectural gems spanning the Victorian Gothic, New England Colonial and contemporary periods. The university is highly sought after for those seeking an education in law, medicine, arts and sciences and those who desire elite professional and graduate programs. Tours of the campus which educates 11,000 annually, must be arranged in advance and provide an orientation video as well as an overview of the school’s prestigious history and architecture.
Taking time for college and university travels can help narrow the choices. If an Ivy League education is the goal but the school has yet to be chosen, visiting these schools well in advance of the admission deadlines is the best way to facilitate the decision.
Do you have a High School Senior looking at ivy league colleges or universities? What schools will you be looking into?
I do not know anyone at the present time who is looking to get into an Ivy League college. Even if the college is not Ivey League it is not a bad idea to go see and visit it first!
Wow Ivy League School. Just the thought of it creates financial panic! But seeing the campus’ first is a great idea.
I always dreamed of going to an Ivy League school but I am now well past that point. I love this for those interested though.
I have told all my children they better gets scholarships because paying for 5 to go to college will be scary!! In all seriousness I would be so proud if any of my children were able to consider an Ivy league school.
I was very fortunate to get a scholarship to a small private college. Going to tour the school prior to enrollment is a good idea.
I don’t know anyone lookinmg at colleegs at this tgime. It would have been very helpful fome to have visited the university before I enrolled. Just absorbing the atmosphere and knowing what to expect are good preparations for any student.
These are great schools. My son will be graduating next year and he is looking into colleges now. Thanks for sharing.