Sometimes, the best way to imagine yourself in college is to actually step onto a college campus.
This summer, a mix of CRSM rising juniors and seniors did just that, visiting Hope College, Lake Forest College, Illinois State University, and the University of Illinois Springfield. For many students, these trips were their first opportunity to experience a college campus firsthand.
“These trips give students the chance to see firsthand what different colleges have to offer, ask questions, and begin thinking about what they want in their own college experience,” reflected College Counselor Ana Aguilar.
The visits often lead to moments of discovery. Aguilar shared that students return saying things like, “I definitely want to apply here,” or, “I didn’t know this school offered that.” Those reactions are exactly what make the trips so valuable. Students are able to compare campus environments, learn about academic programs and opportunities, and begin narrowing down what matters most to them in their college search.
Most importantly, the visits are provided at no cost to students, making these experiences accessible to those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to travel to different campuses.
As Aguilar explained, “College trips help make the college search feel more accessible and real, while giving our students the confidence and information they need to make informed decisions about their future.”
By the end of the summer, students returned to CRSM with more than brochures and campus photos. They came back with a clearer picture of what college can look like and, for some, a new school at the top of their list.