What That College Tour Guide Really Means
Classroom
Tour guide says: "The classrooms here incorporate up-to-date design and technology to augment the learning process..."
Tour guide decoder: This is a fine example of a selling point that doesn't really tell you anything. PowerPoint presentations and wireless Internet connections can be found at almost every university, and while some students use laptops for class notes, they often don't outnumber those with pen and paper. Consider how technology will extend beyond the classroom.
You should ask: Are professors known to use technology tools such as podcast lectures or online assignment posting boards?
Health center
Tour guide says: "Our center provides excellent checkup and pharmacy services..."
Tour guide decoder: While some schools have hospitals located conveniently on campus, others' health centers aren't equipped for a crisis or late-night visit. Don't wait until you can't peel yourself from the bed and trashcan to find out where to go for emergencies.
You should ask: Where is the closest hospital, and does the university offer transportation if I can't drive or don't have a car?
Computer lab
Tour guide says: "The computer labs are open 24 hours a day..."
Tour guide decoder: Tour guides have been preaching this outdated sales pitch for years. Students typically bring their own computers, but hunting for a place to check your E-mail or write a paper is seldom a problem.
You should ask: Does the school provide a computer repair and debugging service? Will the program charge me?
Recreation center
Tour guide says: "Our recreation center is our newest and biggest building on campus. It is home to a multisport gym with five basketball courts, a swimming pool, a sauna, a fitness center, tennis courts, climbing walls, a fitness store, dance studios, a weightlifting room, 25 elliptical machines, two full-size tracks..."
Tour guide decoder: A top of the line university gym is such a huge draw for students that you will find similar centers at most state universities. What can make a rec center stand out is the availability of the gym. A campus insider (i.e. tour guide) will know the times when the gym is the least busy.
You should ask: What hours is the rec center open, and when are the best times to come?
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