After months of applications, essays, and nerve-wracking waits, you finally have those acceptance letters in hand – congratulations! Now comes the tough part – making your final decision. One way to gain clarity is by attending an Admitted Student Day, an event where colleges pull out all the stops to welcome accepted students and give them a taste of campus life.
But is attending such an event really worth your time and money? We’ll break it down and let you decide!
What to Expect from Admitted Student Day
Admitted Student Days offer an inside look at life on campus while also serving as a celebration for those students who the school has accepted. Colleges design these events to be both informative and exciting—after all, they hope to convince you to enroll! These events can also help you make an informed decision by providing:
• College tours
• Mini-sessions with faculty or departments of interest
• Additional guidance on Financial Aid
• Opportunities to learn about residence life
• Student panels
• Opportunities to meet other accepted students
• Guide to your next steps
The Pros of Attending Admitted Student Day
Gaining Insight to Help Make Your Final Decision
Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and seeing a school in person can make all the difference. Even if you’ve visited before, experiencing it as an admitted student is different. Sometimes, these visits are exactly what you need to know if a school feels like home. Admitted Student Day allows you to experience campus life firsthand, sit in on sample classes, and chat with current students. Seeing dorms, tasting the food, and exploring study spaces can confirm your gut feeling—or make you rethink your choices.
Building Early Connections
College is about more than academics – it’s also about the people. At these events, you may meet potential roommates, future classmates, professors, and even advisors. Making connections now can help ease the transition in the fall. And who knows – you might walk away with a new friend before move-in day.
Getting the Answers You Need
Sure, you’ve done your research, visited the college website, attended virtual info sessions, and read all those emails they send, but nothing beats asking questions in person. Admitted Student Day gives you access to housing reps, financial aid officers, academic advisors, and student leaders who can provide more detailed insights into so many different areas like meal plans, scholarships, study abroad programs, and more.
Experiencing the Campus Vibe
Each college has its own unique personality, and sometimes, the feel of a place matters just as much as the stats on a brochure. You need to feel comfortable in a way that will support your personal growth. By attending an Admitted Students Day, you’ll get to explore the dining halls, residence halls, athletic facilities, and even the surrounding town or city. Can you see yourself there? Experiencing it all in person can help you decide if this school truly feels like the right fit.
The Cons of Attending Admitted Student Day
Can Be Expensive and Time-Consuming
If the college is far away, traveling for Admitted Student Day could mean airfare, hotel costs, and missed school or work. If you’re already certain about your choice, you might ask yourself: Is it worth the expense? Some schools offer travel stipends, so check with the admissions office if cost is a concern.
Might Not Change Your Mind
Some students attend hoping for that movie “aha” moment, but that doesn’t always happen. If you’ve already researched the school extensively, the event may not drastically change your opinion. You might leave feeling the same way you did before, which could make the trip feel unnecessary.
May Feel Like a Sales Pitch
At the end of the day, colleges are businesses and they need students like you to fill their seats. Admitted Student Days give colleges an opportunity to impress you, making these events feel more like celebrations with free swag, performances, and giveaways rather than deep dives into academics. If you’re looking for serious discussions about coursework, internships, or research opportunities, be sure to understand the planned agenda and whether you can seek out department-specific events or schedule meet-ups with specific faculty. If these opportunities aren’t available, is the trip worth the effort?
Should You Go?
For undecided students, these events can be invaluable for making a final choice. But if you’re already set on a school, it might not be worth the time and cost. Either way, the goal is the same – choosing a college where you’ll thrive. Attending Admitted Student Day can be a great way to solidify your choice, meet future classmates, and experience campus life in real-time. But if the cost is high, your mind is already made up, or you prefer a more individualized visit, you might skip it and schedule a private tour or virtual meeting instead.
If you do decide to go, make the most of it! Come with questions, talk to students, and explore areas that matter most to you. Choosing a college is a big decision – so make sure you feel confident in your choice.
Looking for help with the college search and application process? We help students and families through the entire college planning journey – from search, applications and essays to interview prep, financial aid consultation and final school selection.
Contact us at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946. We work with students through Zoom, over the phone and by email.
Looking for help with the college search and application process? We help students and families through the entire college planning journey – from search, applications and essays to interview prep, financial aid consultation and final school selection.
Contact us at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946. We work with students through Zoom, over the phone and by email.
