College Review: Wake Forest University
On a cold, rainy day, we visited Wake Forest University and experienced a blend of awe and thoughtful reflection. Despite the damp weather, the campus's enduring beauty shone through, offering us a glimpse of its storied charm and vibrant academic community. Embracing the Campus Beauty in the Rain Even under overcast skies, Wake Forest University’s architectural elegance and lush green spaces left a lasting impression on us. The rain-enhanced colors of the manicured gardens and historic buildings added an unexpected depth to our campus tour. We found that the serene pathways and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces created a warm, inviting [...]
College Review: Furman University
We drove to Greenville, South Carolina to experience Furman University—a small liberal arts college with roughly 2,500-3,000 undergraduates and a lot to offer. Discovering Greenville, SC Greenville, named one of the best places to visit by The New York Times, is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This vibrant town boasts: Abundant Outdoor Activities: Enjoy biking, hiking at nearby state parks, and soaking in the natural beauty. Culinary Delights: A dense downtown area packed with unique, foodie restaurants—so many, in fact, that dining at a different spot each day would take six months. Lively Social Scene: Trendy [...]
College Review: Sewanee, the University of the South
We visited Sewanee, the University of the South. Known for its stunning campus, high-quality academics, and unique traditions, Sewanee—officially the University of the South—offers a distinctive college experience that goes beyond conventional expectations. A Campus Nestled in Nature Located on a mountaintop with over 13,000 acres of largely undeveloped land (affectionately known as “The Domain”), Sewanee provides an escape from urban chaos. This secluded setting is perfect for students who appreciate outdoor activities, quiet study spaces, and breathtaking natural views. If the idea of a campus that feels like a mountain resort—with all the peace and [...]
How to Maximize Admitted Student Day Visits
Admitted student days aren’t just a formality—they’re your family’s golden opportunity to uncover the true essence of a college campus. Instead of simply following a scripted tour, take this chance to explore resources that matter most to your student’s unique needs and get real talk from current students who live the experience every day. Plan Ahead and Prioritize What Matters Before you even set foot on campus, a little homework goes a long way. Check out the day’s schedule and pinpoint sessions or tours that align with your family’s priorities. Look for sessions featuring key offices like disabilities services and [...]
College Tours for College Admissions: Why Do the Prospective Applicants Look So Miserable?
When I went to tour McGill last summer with my two kids, ages 15 and 11, I had two very different experiences. While waiting for the tour to start, my eleven-year-old son read the course catalog, picked his major, and decided on his dormitory. My fifteen-year-old avoided sitting next to me, seemed very unhappy, and repeatedly glared at me whenever she thought I might ask a question. It wasn’t just me–another mother was struggling with her own seventeen-year-old daughter. Because this was her oldest child and their first college visit, the mother was shocked at her daughter’s behavior and kept [...]