Is It Too Early to Start Virtual College Tours as a High School Junior?

Is It Too Early to Start Virtual College Tours as a High School Junior?

As a high school junior, the question often arises: is it too early to start thinking about college tours, especially with virtual tours currently in vogue? It's a valid concern, especially when some might argue that one is simply "avoiding reality" by trying to plan so early.

Breaking Down the Myths

The idea that it is too early to start thinking about college tours stems partly from the outdated notion that one must wait until senior year to consider colleges seriously. However, this mindset is outdated in a world where college planning, including virtual tours, is more accessible and beneficial than ever before.

According to some, seeing the campuses in person is the only way to truly assess a school, yet focusing on more intrinsic factors like academic services and their quality is often more critical. While exploring the physical campus can certainly contribute to a student's decision-making process, it is only one piece of the puzzle. The saying, "an early bird gets the worm," aptly illustrates why starting the planning process early can be advantageous.

Why Early Planning Matters

When you start thinking about your college options early, you can:

Get into the Right Mindset: College planning is both an intellectual and emotional journey. Getting into the right mindset can help you make informed decisions later on. Identify Your Priorities: Early in the process, you can reflect on what you prioritize in a college, such as campus culture, extracurricular activities, and academic programs. Motivate Academic Improvement: If you notice that some colleges require higher standardized test scores or have more rigorous academic programs, you can use this knowledge to motivate yourself to work harder in your junior and senior years.

Additionally, as college tours increasingly shift to virtual formats, the ease and flexibility of virtual tours make them more accessible than ever. You can tour numerous campuses without the logistical challenges of physically visiting them.

Practical Steps to Take Early

Starting your college review process early is beneficial, but what steps should you take?

Research - Start by researching potential colleges and universities. Look for information on offerings, campus culture, and student life. Virtual Tours - Utilize virtual tours to get a feel for different campuses. Take note of what you like and dislike in terms of facilities, campus layout, and community. Pros and Cons List - Create a list of pros and cons for each college you consider. This can help you make more informed comparisons and decisions. Consult Counselors and Peers - Speak to guidance counselors and current college students to get their insights and advice. Save and Visit Later - By your second semester in junior year, you should have a list of preferred colleges. Plan to visit these campuses in person if feasible, but don't limit yourself to these options if you find better ones through further research.

Remember, the college search is a journey. It's okay to change your mind as you learn more about yourself and what you want from your college experience. The key is to start early and be well-prepared for the process.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, is it too early to start virtual college tours as a high school junior? Absolutely not! The reality is, the earlier you start planning, the better equipped you will be to make informed decisions about your future. Capitalize on the opportunity to explore numerous campuses through virtual tours, and use this time to gauge your wants, needs, and aspirations for your college experience.