Gabrielle Harris has college tours on her mind. She is just a year shy of graduating high school, and like many of her peers, is in the market for a campus to call her own.

“I think I want a medium to big school, in a city with fun things to do,” says the 16-year-old Wilmington Friends School junior. “I can’t wait to start visiting schools this spring.”

Harris may change her mind about what she wants in her ideal school. Many students do. But she and her parents are making the right moves by checking out the institutions first. Choosing a college is an important decision. It’s the first big investment students make in their future. Give the decision thoughtful attention by planning ahead strategically.

Do your research. Check out school websites. You’ll get a good glimpse at academic offerings, programs and campus life. Weed out institutions by cost (Is it in your price range?), geographical location (Is too far? too close?) and curriculum (Does the school have a program that supports your future career goals?). Find a contact number or email address and request information about the school. Know as much as you can about the school. Talk to current students or alumni (The school can likely connect you with past students willing to chat with you.)

Tour virtually. Many colleges offer virtual campus tours on their websites these days. It’s not the real thing, of course. But it will give you a taste of what’s to come. Check out websites such as YoUniversityTV or E-Campus Tours for videos, photos and more.

Schedule your visit. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions office at least two weeks ahead to sign up for a tour. Share any details about your areas of interest so that you can experience what’s most important to you. For example, a student interested in playing volleyball on an intramural team might time a visit around a game or practice. Be there when classes are in session to get a good feel for a typical day.

Get there. Show your professionalism by being on time for your appointment. Have clear directions and maps on hand to help you avoid getting lost on your way to and around campus. When you schedule your visit remember to find out where to park.

Make a to-do list. Make sure you’ve planned enough time to explore everything you want to see:

• Speak with financial aid, housing and academic advisors to learn about the costs of tuition, dorm availability and academic requirements.
• Visit on-campus and off-campus housing. Ask to visit dorms or apartments when you schedule your tour.
• Sit in a class in your desired field of study.
• Sample the cafeteria food to ensure it meets your standards.
• Visit the computer lab. Does it meet your needs?
• Check out the fitness facilities. Do they have enough equipment? Are they convenient? Is there a pool?

Take notes. If you visit more than two schools, it’s easy to confuse what you saw and where you saw it. Jot down your pros and cons under each school for reference when you reach decision-making time.

Have fun. Enjoy the process of meeting new people and experiencing different worlds. Try to find a school that you really connect with on your college tours.