Navigating the admissions process Step 3: The Visit

If you have not already read Steps 1 and Steps 2 please do so if you like before reading this post.

Orientation Course Selection day is quickly approaching and each year as we prepare we review the students feedback surveys as a way to gain insight on how we can make the programs better and meet the needs of transfer students.  More and more I see students indicating that the first time they stepped foot on campus was for their orientation program.  At this point they are registering for courses and really getting to know the University.  My feeling is that students should be using this time to get to know their peers, faculty, and what it means to be a UMBC student-not exploring the campus for the first time.

The college visit is very important because it really allows you to get to know the university before deciding on attending.  It allows you to find out if it’s the right fit and to see what opportunities await you.  Visiting a college and/or universities isn’t just for the high school junior or senior.  Transfer students also need to explore their options, see what makes a school unique, ask questions, talk with students etc.

So when is a good time to visit you ask?  The first step is checking the colleges or universities websites.  Many offer a special web page dedicated to visiting the campus.  What do they have to offer for transfer students?  Is there an open house?  A visit day for transfers?  or can transfers participate in general visits to the campus?  Our transfer website advertises both our visit programs and transfer workshops.  It’s never too early to start so don’t wait until your last semester to visit!  Start as early as your first year at the community college so you can make a better decision when it comes time to apply and enroll.

Visiting one or more campuses will allow you to familiarize yourself with the school and learn more about the students, faculty, and institution.  Most importantly it will allow you learn more about the university and their admissions process for transfer students-making the transition easier.

To view the transfer visit opportunities at UMBC click here.