Masuk Free Press

As of May 1, senior decisions are finalized. Seniors around the globe now know where they are going to spend their next four years. After months of writing essays and sending out applications, the first portion of 2025 was full of sitting back and waiting as the responses started rolling in. Some may say the hardest part was over, but for many, making a final decision was just as difficult. While it’s true that the pressure was no longer about potential college essay subjects, a new dilemma found its way into the lives of high school seniors: which college to choose. Knowing that this choice would shape their future puts high pressure on students to make the “right” decision. This is where admitted students days can be helpful. The purpose of these events is to help accepted students decide if they would be a good fit for that college. However, is it worth it to attend, or would you be better off spending your weekend doing something else?

An admitted students day is a function hosted by a college where students who have been accepted can visit the campus and learn more about that particular school. These events typically last for most of the day, and the prospective students participate in a variety of activities designed to give them a feel for the school’s environment, and a better understanding of the academic programs. For example, a possible day could consist of a guided tour, informational sessions about specific majors or a mock class, and opportunities to socialize with other admitted students. There is also usually time to walk around and stop by the bookstore or eat lunch. Overall, by the end of the day, the student should have a general idea of whether or not they could see themselves attending that school.

I attended two admitted students days before deciding on a school. Looking back, I can confidently say that both of these events played a crucial role in my decision-making process. I was able to see each school in a different environment and meet my potential future classmates. The colleges I visited were the University of Vermont and Binghamton University. These were my final two choices, so attending the admitted students days was my attempt at deciding between them. The events were similar in many ways, but offered unique experiences that helped me weigh my options. 

At the University of Vermont, the first activity was a welcome speech. Afterwards, everyone split up based on their major. There was another presentation for each department where we were able to hear from professors and current students in that department. What I liked most about this admitted students day was spending time with other prospective students in my major. Seeing who my possible future classmates would be was a valuable experience, and it gave me a glimpse of what the community would look like. 

The next admitted students day allowed us to schedule our activities in advance, so we knew what to expect ahead of time. The activities were similar to those at UVM, but I also participated in a mock class and went on a bus tour through the town of Binghamton. The mock class was especially helpful because it gave me a preview of what my classes would be like if I decided to become a student there. I ended up choosing Binghamton after the admitted students days, because it felt like a better fit for me socially and academically.

Overall, admitted students days are valuable experiences that I would recommend to anyone trying to decide on a college. They give prospective students the opportunity to see if the school fits what they are looking for in a college, such as the walkability of the campus, the location, the atmosphere or the housing situation. Admitted students days offer information that cannot be found online, along with the ability to ask questions in person. Asking current students about their experience, as well as asking professors questions, was very helpful, and made me feel more at ease when making my decision. Students can also personalize their experience based on what they want to learn more about. For example, some may focus on exploring their major, while others prioritize visiting residential areas or meeting new people. Overall, what made the biggest difference for me was being able to see the community and feel the atmosphere of both schools. Ultimately, I chose the one where I could see myself feeling most at home for my college years.