A campus visit is an exciting milestone in the college search process, but it’s easy for parents to make missteps that could lead to unnecessary stress or missed opportunities. Whether you’re visiting a state school or a private university, here are some common mistakes parents often make during campus visits—and how to avoid them.

1. Taking the Lead When You Should Be Following

If you truly want to empower your child to take the college admissions process seriously, you can’t do all the work. Allow them to get involved and make decisions, not only about which colleges to visit, but also what else to do when they are on campus. Do they want to meet a professor, sit in on a class, grab a cup of coffee with current students, explore the area. Let the student drive the day.

How to avoid it: Be deliberate about your role in the planning. Ask your students to make the big decisions so they have a sense of ownership of the process. Hold back your commentary and always ask them for their impressions first.

2. Overwhelming the Student with Questions

It’s natural for parents to want to gather as much information as possible during a campus visit, but bombarding the student with a constant stream of questions can create pressure and frustration. While parents are invested in the decision-making process, it’s important to allow the student to take the lead. After all, they are the ones who will ultimately be spending the next four years there.

How to avoid it: Before the visit, discuss the types of questions you’d like to ask but agree on a structure that gives the student space to explore and form their own impressions. Focus on areas where the student might not feel comfortable asking questions, like dorm life or academics, while letting them express their thoughts on campus culture and their general feelings.

3. Focusing Too Much on Academics

While academics are undoubtedly a major factor in choosing a college, some parents make the mistake of focusing solely on them during the campus visit. They zero in on questions about the curriculum, majors, or prestige, overlooking the importance of campus culture, extracurriculars, and overall fit.

How to avoid it: Remember that college is about more than just the classroom experience. Encourage your student to explore the social aspects of campus life as well. Look for opportunities to check out clubs, student activities, and the overall atmosphere. A college might have a stellar academic program, but if it doesn’t match the student’s social or emotional needs, it might not be the right fit.

4. Rushing the Visit

Many parents schedule multiple campus visits in a short amount of time, which can lead to exhaustion and overwhelm. Rushing from one school to the next without enough time to absorb details or really experience what each campus has to offer can hinder your ability to make a well-informed decision.

How to avoid it: Plan your campus visits with ample time between stops. Aim for a balanced approach: a couple of visits per day, leaving enough time for a relaxed lunch or walk around the campus afterward. If your schedule is tight, consider limiting the number of visits you make in a day or over the course of the week.

5. Ignoring the ‘Gut Feeling’

Parents can sometimes get so focused on rankings, statistics, and other concrete details that they forget to consider the intangible elements that influence their child’s happiness and success at a particular school. The “gut feeling” about a campus is just as important as academics or finances.

How to avoid it: While data is crucial, make sure to trust the emotional responses you and your student experience during the visit. Does the student feel comfortable and energized on the campus? Does it feel welcoming? These emotional cues are often just as valuable as academic information.

6. Not Considering Practical Factors

Parents may focus so much on the aesthetics of the campus and the general feel of the college that they overlook practical concerns. These can include the cost of living in the area, access to local resources, or the availability of transportation. It’s easy to be swept away by picturesque views, but these details matter in the long run.

How to avoid it: Pay attention to the surrounding community, safety, and logistical considerations like commute times, transportation options, and off-campus living. Factor in your family’s budget for non-tuition expenses such as food, transportation, and entertainment.

7. Not Asking About the Financial Aid Process

It’s easy to assume that financial aid will work itself out later, but ignoring the financial aid office during the campus visit can result in missed opportunities. Learning about scholarship options, the financial aid process, and any special resources for families can be a game-changer in the decision-making process.

How to avoid it: During your campus visit, make it a point to stop by the financial aid office or schedule an appointment with a counselor. They can offer insight into the school’s aid process, application deadlines, and any school-specific financial programs.

By avoiding these common mistakes, parents can help their students make the most of their campus visits, ensuring that both academics and overall fit are considered in the decision-making process. With thoughtful preparation and an open mind, a campus visit can be a valuable experience for both parent and student.

Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte. Send questions to: lee@bierercollegeconsulting.com; www.bierercollegeconsulting.com