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Visiting universities: a journey to know, understand, accompany
In my work as educational counselor, I devote myself with passion and deep responsibility to accompanying students on their college choice journey, visiting universities very often. It is not just a professional task, but a real mission: to help them navigate one of the most significant and transformative moments of their lives. This is an exciting yet gentle journey, as it is about guiding them not only to find their own academic path, but to discover their most authentic passions, their hidden talents, and to imagine how to turn this into a future full of possibilities, fulfillment and success.
I firmly believe that the choice of college is a crucial moment in a young person's life, a crossroads that must be approached with full knowledge and the right support. It is a decision that will shape not only their career, but also their personal growth, relationships and worldview. For this reason, my approach goes far beyond simply providing information about academic programs, university rankings, or future career opportunities. My commitment is to convey to the students, and often to their families as well, The vital importance of experiencing the university environment firsthand: to breathe in the vibrant atmosphere on campuses, to feel the intellectual energy that permeates classrooms and laboratories, to establish meaningful dialogues with students already placed , with faculty and admissions officers to understand their selection criteria. and to touch the everyday reality behind the glossy brochures or websites. Only then can they make a choice that is not only informed but also heartfelt, a decision that resonates with their true essence.
Why is visiting universities so important?
Choosing a university based solely on an eye-catching website or a well-edited brochure is a bit like trying to fall in love with a person by looking only at a photograph. You can certainly guess some distinguishing features, but what is missing is the most essential and profound part of the experience: emotions, the feelings that a place can evoke, human and occupation connections or course descriptions are objective and valuable data, but they cannot capture the soul of an institution.intellectuals that are created only through direct and immersive experience.
Visiting universities is first and foremost about deciphering their vision for the future. It is not just a matter of choosing a course, but of understanding how that institution is positioned with respect to the Great challenges that new generations will face. This perspective manifests itself in an almost instinctive way: it is the energy one feels, the "vibes" of the campus, the atmosphere that prompts one to ask oneself whether that context fits harmoniously with one's deepest aspirations. The visit thus becomes a unique opportunity to ask oneself, "Does the direction of this university resonate with my own?", "Will this environment give me the drive to become the person I want to be in the world to come?"
Here are some aspects that I think are absolutely essential to evaluate and investigate during a careful and focused visit.
The approach to teaching: beyond the curriculum
It is not enough to know the mere syllabus of a course; it is of crucial importance to understand how it is taught. Modern education goes beyond the mere transmission of notions. Is there room for practical application of theories learned, in addition to the lecture? Do teaching methodologies encourage group work and peer collaboration? Are hands-on workshops, simulations, case studies or field experiences regularly organized to enable students to put the knowledge they have gained into practice immediately? A teaching approach that emphasizes interactivity, the problem-solving and the development of soft skills can make an abysmal difference in a student's education, preparing them not only for exams, but for the complex challenges of the world of work and life.
Visiting universities always means delving into these aspects, openly dialoguing with teachers, whenever possible, and trying to understand their teaching philosophy, enthusiasm and dedication. I enter classrooms, carefully observe the dynamics between students and professors, the presence of innovative technologies, and try to imagine my kids sitting among those desks, eager to learn, challenge themselves and actively contribute to the discussion.
Environment and community: The pulse of the campus
Each university possesses a soul of its own, a distinctive character that makes it unique. A fast-paced, dynamic campus set in the beating heart of a major metropolis conveys completely different stimuli and opportunities than a university nestled in a more collected, perhaps historic, or nature-filled setting. There is no absolute "right" or "wrong" university, but there is the right For each specific student, The one that reflects his personality, social preferences and lifestyle.
During my visits, I like to spend time observing students in their natural environment: talking to them, figuring out if they feel part of a welcoming and stimulating community, if they feel a sense of belonging.
I chat with kids in campus cafes, watch them studying in the library with dedication or relaxing in the gardens, absorbing the general atmosphere. I assess the level of interaction among students, the presence of extracurricular activities, student clubs (sports, cultural, arts, volunteer) and social events that foster integration and personal development outside of class hours. A campus that pulses with social and intellectual life is an indicator of a healthy environment conducive to growth.
Supporting international students: a bridge to the new
For students who choose the exciting but often challenging, study abroad adventure, welcome, integration, and ongoing support are absolutely critical. Leaving one's country, family, and friends to move to a new cultural and academic setting can be a significant emotional and logistical challenge. Homesickness, initial language barriers, bureaucracy-these are all obstacles that good support can help overcome.
A university that truly cares for its international students Offers dedicated and well-structured services: specific host offices, detailed orientation programs, dedicated tutors, cross-cultural events that foster socialization, a wide range of housing options, and customized language support services. During my visits, I always inquire extensively about the presence of these essential resources, because knowing that an institution is prepared to provide an environment where one can feel at home, even thousands of miles away, is a reassuring and decisive factor.
The city context and quality of life: the university and beyond
The university is not only where you study, but also where you live for several years, where you grow as an individual and Where new friendships and social networks are created that often last a lifetime. The city in which the university is located, the opportunities it offers beyond the university walls, and the overall quality of life are elements not to be underestimated in the final choice. Living in a city on a human scale, with an efficient public transportation system, vibrant cultural offerings (museums, theaters, concerts), opportunities for part-time work or internships, and a reasonable cost of living, can contribute significantly to making the university experience even richer, more fulfilling and sustainable. A safe and stimulating urban environment is invaluable.
Comparison with other professionals: shared growth
Visiting universities together with other fellow *educational counselors* or guidance professionals is a valuable opportunity for professional growth and mutual enrichment. Each professional brings with him or her own unique perspective, experiences gained, and methodologies. Comparing openly allows us to broaden our perspectives, to enrich our skills, to discover new best practices, and to create a network of professionals who are increasingly knowledgeable and up-to-date on the latest trends in global academia. This constant comparison allows me to stay on the cutting edge of academia, learn about new methods of effective guidance, and ultimately offer my students an increasingly comprehensive, personalized, and informed service. Group synergy multiplies the value of each individual visit.
A concrete example: my recent trip to Ireland
I recently had the good fortune and privilege of participating in a "college tour" in Ireland, visiting several leading universities together with a group of colleagues. We were able to get up close and personal with different academic realities, each with its own specificity and distinctiveness, such as the Trinity College Dublin, the Dublin City University (DCU), the National College of Ireland, the Maynooth University and the UCC - University College Cork.
What impressed me most on this tour was. The almost palpable focus on students' well-being and holistic development. I perceived a practical approach to teaching that is not limited to theory, but aims to prepare students not only for exams, but for real life, the challenges of the working world and global citizenship. I was able to see for myself concrete commitment to inclusiveness, with dedicated spaces, individualized pathways and a focus on the needs of each individual student, ensuring that no one is left behind. Ireland itself has proven to be an incredibly dynamic country, with a booming technology sector, and at the same time deeply welcoming, offering a high quality of life and a stimulating cultural and social environment for international students, who are a vital part of its university population.
Why is visiting universities so important? The heart of my mission
Why every student is unique, with their own talents, aspirations and their own, sometimes hidden, fears. My role as an educational counselor is to accompany them on this crucial path of choice, helping them discover not only the practical information and objective data that are at hand, but also the emotions, feelings and sense of belonging that a university can convey and that only direct experience can reveal.
Visiting universities allows me to do this at my best, to convey to my students not only data and numbers, but also enthusiasm, confidence and in-depth knowledge of those who have seen with their own eyes, walked those halls and touched the vibrant reality behind each university. Only in this way can I help them make a truly informed choice, a choice that is not limited to a course of study, but one that opens the door to a future full of opportunities, professional and personal fulfillment, and continued growth.
For any information or concerns, including financial planning for a study abroad experience-which, I assure you, is often more affordable than you think- I invite you to contact me. I will be happy to offer you a strategic and personalized approach to orientation, turning your college choice into an exciting adventure and a real launching pad for your future.
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