Walking and Talking
The best advice that was given to me while I was touring campuses was to picture myself on that campus. After being on the hour long tour I would take a little stroll and really try to think about what I would look like in two years on that campus. After going to that lecture hall and waking up in that dorm room, how would I look? Where would I sit? Where would I be going next?
Of course it is an overwhelming thing to think of. However, that tour really helps you get a feel for the campus. Then, imagining yourself there helps you understand that this place will be your home for the next four years. Basically judge how comfortable you feel when doing that. I cannot imagine picking a school without visiting the campus. I know there have been people who did that but I really had to see the rooms and the campus and the city it was in.
If anything, I would recommend calling as many people as you can and asking as many questions as possible. First off, I would have been more at ease to really talk to students that actually attend the schools I was interested in. Those students can give their own story and tell you what they know about different departments or clubs or residence halls on campus. Generally when you call the admissions department you will talk to a student first and ask them you are looking into the school and if they can tell you more about the school itself. After you talk with them then you can start talking to department heads who might recommend a student in that major you can speak to. Then talk to the study aboard office or ask about the clubs you might be interested in.
Walking on the campus and talking to the students are the best two things that can help you see where you want to be. From there, you can easily start making your pro/con lists that have as much information as possible. For me, my lists proved that USF had the most pros and the least cons. I knew I would be happiest here, and I have been. After my tour I remember looking onto Welsh Field and imagining myself reading on the grass looking out at twin peaks and sutro tower and being so thankful that I live in the best city ever. Now that is very much my reality.
-Natasha