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Visiting Prospective Schools: A Practical Guide for Parents and Students

High School Student graduating with parents


As a parent, one of the most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — steps in preparing your student for college is visiting prospective schools. Chapter 9 of my book, Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College, helps families move from research to real-life experience, ensuring that campus visits are intentional, organized, and insightful.


Step 1: Use the Campus Survey Sheet


Before stepping foot on any campus, I recommend heading to www.YourNextBigStep.org, clicking the “More” tab, and downloading the Campus Survey Sheet. Print it or keep it digital — either way, bring it with you.


Why? Because campus visits are an investment of both time and money, and this sheet keeps you organized. It ensures you capture all the details you need to make a well-informed decision.


Reading brochures or watching highlight videos is helpful, but nothing replaces walking the campus and asking, “Can I see myself here?”


Step 2: Plan Your Visit Strategically


There are several ways to experience a campus:


  • Official tours through the admissions office

  • Group trips organized by your high school

  • Informal visits, walking in public spaces, and observing student life


Each option gives a slightly different perspective. The key is to stay attentive and thoughtful during the experience.


Step 3: Engage, Ask Questions, and Observe


Most campus visits include an information session and a student-led tour. The student perspective is invaluable — it’s a real insight into daily life.


But here’s where many families miss the opportunity: asking questions.


In Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College, I include a question bank with 70 questions to help you dig deeper:


  • Why did you choose this school?

  • What do you love about it — and what would you change?

  • How are graduation rates, retention, and job opportunities in the community?


These answers reveal far more than brochures or videos ever could.


Step 4: Prepare Before You Arrive


Preparation is essential. Before your visit:


  • Explore the school’s website

  • Study the mission and academic programs

  • Review the campus map

  • Write down questions to ask during your visit


During the visit, take notes, capture photos, and compare campuses thoughtfully rather than emotionally.


Step 5: Consider a Second Visit


Once you’ve narrowed your list, a second visit during a normal week (not an event day) gives a realistic picture of campus life.


If traveling isn’t possible, don’t worry. Many schools now offer:


  • Virtual tours

  • Online events

  • Student conversations

  • Digital publications


Even digitally, you can gather meaningful insight.


Step 6: Focus on Fit, Not Prestige


Choosing a school isn’t about name recognition — it’s about fit.


  • Does the environment align with God’s calling on your student’s life?

  • Does it match academic goals?

  • Will it support personal growth?


The right campus environment can shape not just the next four years, but the next forty.


Take Your Next Big Step


Visiting prospective schools with intention, preparation, and discernment sets your student up for academic success and spiritual growth.


Why I Wrote Your Next Big Step


This exact season — the one you’re in right now as a parent — is why I wrote Your Next Big Step: The Complete Manual for Christian Parents and Students Preparing for College.


I’ve seen how powerful it is when families approach the college transition with faith, intentionality, and a clear plan.


The book is designed to help parents and students:


  • Navigate the high school-to-college transition

  • Seek God’s direction for education and career

  • Strengthen family communication during this season

  • Make decisions with both wisdom and faith


If you’re walking through this season right now, I truly believe the tools inside will help your family move forward with confidence.


You can also find additional resources and guidance at: www.YourNextBigStep.org


The Book, "YOur Next Big Step

Your Next Big Step by Sean Gibson will walk with you through this season of life. College preparation, financial management, spiritual readiness, and mentorship. This book will equip you to lead your teenager with wisdom, clarity, and confidence.


You are preparing them for more than graduation. You are preparing them for life.


Walk with your student and get them off to a good start. Get your copy today.


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