Q:  Our son is a junior, and his college counselor has given him a list of about 10 schools he should consider.  Some are a short drive out of NYC, while several are outside the state.  I know making campus visits is important, and it's one way for our son to show his interest.  But between our work schedules and the cost, there is no way we can got to see all these schools.  How important, really, is it that we visit all ten colleges?

A:  Visiting some colleges should be part of each student's preparation, but it is definitely not essential to visit every school on your list.  And while "demonstrated interest" is one way to impress admission officers, visiting a campus is only one way of showing this.  And if a campus is very far away, they really don't expect you to make the trip -- they know this could mean a significant expense for a family.

For instance, your son would not be expected to visit colleges in California or Texas; but if there is a school in Manhattan on his list -- particularly a private college -- and he never visits, they would wonder if his interest is really serious.

There is another, quite important, reason to visit schools.  You can learn only so much by reading brochures, exploring websites, and talking to alumni.  You need to see the facilities for yourself, explore the campus and its neighborhood, have a meal in the dining hall, talk to random students you meet to get their opinions, even sit in on a class or two.  Would you order a large serving of a totally unknown new flavor of ice cream without first asking for a taste sample?  Visiting a college can allow your son to see if he can visualize himself on that campus -- and can help you feel confident about his going there.<!--more-->

How can your son demonstrate genuine interest in a college too far away to visit?  He can get on their mailing list, and later send an e-mail to the NYC rep with questions.  All colleges ought to have a regional representative to whom he can direct his questions.  If the college participates in a regional or local college fair he should attend and introduce himself to the rep.  Next fall, when college reps visit individual high schools, he must attend this meeting.  If the particular college does not visit his school or participate in college fairs around NYC, your son should be proactive and write again to the rep.  He can explain why it is too far to visit, but again express his strong interest in the school.  The rep may connect him with local alumni he could talk to, or respond in another way.  In either case, they will have a record of your son's correspondence and will be aware of his genuine interest.