Seek Out Students: If you are participating on a guided tour, guides are selected for their enthusiasm for the school, and that’s a good thing. They’ll be knowledgeable, friendly, and outgoing. At the same time, you want to be sure you’re getting unbiased opinions. Chat up “normal” students walking around on campus, and ask them the questions that seem to elicit elusive answers from your tour guide. Encourage them to tell you their dislikes; those are the kinds of things you won’t likely hear coming out of the mouth of the guy or girl leading you around.

Spend the Night: If you have the time, spend a full 24 hours on campus. Attend a few classes during the day, and make every attempt to sit in on courses that you’ll likely take should you choose to attend the college. Eat dinner in the cafeteria, keeping in mind that you’ll consume approximately 3,000 meals there over the course of your college career. After that, head out for whatever activity you’re into. If you want to get a feel for the nightlife, try to stay with someone who is involved with the Greek scene. Likewise, if you plan to involve yourself in something like theater, go to a show with an active drama major.

Talk to a Professor: With all of this activity, it’s easy to forget that you’re going to college to learn. Sit down with the head of the department where you’ll take the majority of your classes, and quiz the professor about things like possible careers, course availability, and department strengths and weaknesses. This will have the added benefit of introducing you to someone on campus; having someone like this on your side can make a huge difference when it comes to making the cut from the waiting list.

Have fun finding the best college for you!