Between the flood of marketing materials and online research, the quest to find a new college can feel a little overwhelming — but there is another option.
A preview day offers high school juniors a chance to tour prospective colleges, sit in on classes and meet with admission counselors and current students.
Although the day is mostly intended to give students a deeper look at that specific institution, some colleges like Willamette provide general advice.
“We try and help students and their families conduct an effective and organized college search, whether they choose Willamette or not,” said Sue Corner, senior associate director of admission.
Info sessions are the highlight of Willamette’s junior preview day, which also includes a campus tour and lunch with current students.
Admission officers “demystify” the search process by dispelling common myths about colleges, affordability and graduation rates, and help students realize that finding a college is less about getting accepted and more about graduating with a degree, said Corner.
Willamette encourages a holistic approach to the search. A good fit requires more than just the right academic program or major — students have to consider factors like how they feel, the extracurriculars offered and the gut feeling they have on campus, she said.
Junior preview day can jump start the college search for students who feel unsure of where to begin or don’t know what they want. Sophomores are also welcome at the events.
“We know how busy senior year and the summer leading up to it can get," she said. "There’s a huge benefit to attending this event and getting a head start on your search."
Junior Preview Day at Willamette runs from 9 a.m.-noon. Register for the next events on March 21 and April 25.