This is a good time for your son or daughter to start taking the responsibility for this college selection job. If he or she balks at making the call, tell them: "Here's a suggestion on what to say."

Office: Admissions office.
You: Hello, my name is John Jones and I'm preparing an application for the fall of 1999. My parents and I are planning to visit the campus the weekend of the 10th of next month. I wonder if I could meet with someone in the admission office at that time.
Office: I can make an appointment for you but it will need to be on that Friday.
You: That would be OK, is there any special event going on that weekend that I could plan to see, and could I visit any dorms?
Office: We have student guides who can take you around the campus and into the dorms. As far as events are concerned, there's just the pre-season football game on Saturday. What major areas are you interested in?
You: I haven't decided but I would like to know more about the psychology program and dance majors. Would there be anyone I could talk to in those fields?
Office: We will make appointments for you in those major departments and call you back. Could I have your phone number and address?
You: Yes. It's area code 777-555-5555 and the address is John Jones, 123 1st St., Martinsburg, WV 99222.
Office: Ok, we'll send you some information about visiting with times and places of your appointments. Is there anything else?
You: Yes, could I see someone about financial aid programs? I thought I could fill out the Student Aid Report while I'm there.
Office: I'll add that to your list.
You: Thank you.
Office: Ok, this will be coming right out to you.
You: Thanks again, Goodbye.

Your son or daughter might also ask about meeting with students in majors that are of interest. If admissions can't help with that one, you or your teen may know someone who is attending the college you are going to visit. If so, try to set a time to see them. If they are not on campus, your teen call them at home and ask them what they think you should see on your visit.

While you have them on the phone, ask about any special events that might be going on during your visit. Special events may make it difficult to see facilities and faculty, or the events coming up might give you a special reason to make an effort to go on a particular date.

Before you start visiting, start a summarizing chart so that after you wade through the information you'll have a good review sheet when the time for the final decision comes. (see College Keys: Getting In, Doing Well and Avoiding the 4 Big Mistakes for more tips)