Christen Arafeh is a Westbank native, mother of four, and budding homesteader who turned her passion for education into Crescent City College Consulting—a college advising agency that’s helped students across the globe earn millions of dollars (and counting) in scholarships. She still believes in handwritten thank-you notes and the power of a good pot of red beans on a Monday to bring people together.
Helping Your Child Choose the Right College
Choosing the right college is an exciting milestone for your child—and you get a front-row seat to the process. It’s about more than academics; it’s about finding the perfect fit where your child will thrive socially, emotionally, and intellectually. One of the best ways to make an informed decision is by going on college tours. These visits allow your child to experience campus life firsthand and provide a chance to ask questions that reveal whether a school is truly “the one.”
In this quick guide, we’ll explore how to navigate the college selection process, the best times to visit campuses, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate different types of schools. By the end, you’ll feel confident about helping your child choose the right college and take the first step by scheduling that initial tour.
Big School or Small School? Urban or Suburban? Public or Private?
Before diving into tours, it’s helpful to narrow down your child’s options. Start by thinking about what kind of environment they’ll thrive in. Does your child dream of attending massive football games and joining a wide variety of clubs? Large schools like Louisiana State University (LSU) offer an energetic, bustling atmosphere with extensive resources, diverse majors, and more people to meet. On the flip side, smaller colleges provide intimate class sizes, closer relationships with professors, and a tight-knit community feel. If your child prefers personal connections over the buzz of a big campus, a smaller college might be the right fit.
Location plays a big role, too. Urban campuses often provide vibrant city life, with access to cultural events, restaurants, public transportation, and countless internship opportunities. Take Tulane University in New Orleans, for example—students benefit from the city’s rich culture and networking possibilities.
On the other hand, suburban campuses can strike a balance between accessibility and tranquility. These schools are often located near major cities but provide a quieter, more community-focused environment. They may offer plenty of green spaces and a close-knit campus feel while still keeping students connected to nearby urban amenities.
Public schools often have lower tuition for in-state students, making them an appealing option for budget-conscious families. Private schools, while pricier, might offer more generous financial aid packages or unique programs tailored to specific interests.
Encourage your child to think about what excites them—whether it’s the hustle of an urban campus or the peaceful charm of a suburban one—and what environment will help them grow.
When to Schedule College Tours
Timing matters when it comes to college tours. Ideally, you’ll start during junior year or the summer before senior year. Visiting during the school year is great for seeing the campus in action: students bustling between classes, campus clubs holding events, and professors teaching in packed lecture halls.
But summer tours can be just as helpful, especially if your schedule is tight. The campus may be quieter, but it’s easier to park, get one-on-one attention during tours, and explore the grounds without feeling rushed.
Plan strategically. Don’t overdo it by scheduling multiple tours in one day. Visiting one or two schools at a time ensures you and your child have the mental space to absorb the experience fully.
Before the visit, preparation is key! Start by doing some homework on the schools your child is interested in. Check out their websites to explore academic programs, housing options, and extracurricular activities. But don’t stop there—head to social media. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are goldmines for behind-the-scenes looks at college life. From dorm room tours to student events, these glimpses can give your child a sense of what to expect and whether they can picture themselves on campus. Details like this can influence your child’s decision, so encourage them to explore every resource available.
Once you’re on campus, it’s time to ask questions that matter. Tours often cover the basics—class sizes, dorm layouts, and dining options—but you can dig deeper to get a clearer picture of life at each school. Here are some questions to consider:
- What resources are available for academic or career support?
- What are weekends like on campus? Are there events, or do most students go home?
- Are there internship opportunities nearby?
- What’s the freshman retention rate? A high rate suggests students feel happy and supported.
- How accessible are professors outside of class?
If your child is interested in a specific program, ask about it. For instance, does the university offer research opportunities for undergraduates, or is there a robust performing arts scene for theatre lovers?
Go beyond the official tour by exploring on your own. Have lunch in the cafeteria, chat with current students, or even sit in on a class if the school allows it. These informal interactions can reveal aspects of campus life that brochures and websites won’t.
Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond doesn’t have Friday classes. While this is perfect for commuters, it also means weekends on campus are quieter, with fewer activities happening. Be sure to ask what the campus is like during weekends and holidays.
After each visit, take time to reflect. Sit down with your child and jot down their thoughts:
- What did they like about the campus?
- Was there anything that felt off?
- Could they imagine themselves living and studying there?
Keeping a journal or Notes app dedicated to college tours will help when it’s time to compare schools. Encourage your child to trust their instincts—sometimes, a campus just “feels right,” and that gut feeling is worth paying attention to.
The Importance of Specialized Programs
If your child has a specific career goal in mind, it’s crucial to evaluate the programs each school offers. For example, if they’re interested in marine biology, a university near the coast with access to research facilities might be a better choice than one located inland. Similarly, business-minded students may prefer schools with strong connections to internships and corporate partnerships.
Look into which schools are known for excelling in certain fields, and don’t hesitate to ask about these programs during your tours. Many schools will proudly highlight their standout departments or notable alumni.
Next Steps: Make It Happen
Ready to get started? Choose one school your child is excited about and head to their website. Most universities make it easy to schedule tours online, and many even offer virtual options if you can’t visit in person.
Touring one school often sparks excitement and motivation, making it easier to plan the next steps. By starting small, your child can gain clarity about their preferences and build momentum for the application process.
The Bottom Line
Helping your child choose the right college is a journey—and you’re in it together. From narrowing down the list to scheduling tours, this is an opportunity to bond, dream big, and help them take charge of their future.
So grab your notebook, browse those Instagram feeds, and hit the road (or the internet) to explore the possibilities. With every campus visit and every question asked, you’re one step closer to finding the place where your child will thrive. Let the adventure begin!
illustrations by Victoria Allen
