Going off to college can be an exhilarating time, as long as you’ve done your homework first. One way to alleviate as much stress as possible is to make sure that you’ve chosen a college that will be a good fit for your needs and expectations. A campus visit is the best way to do just that. Take along this list of questions, both academic and social, to look into while there.

1. What is the school like for freshmen? For example, if first-year students live in dorms, are advisers readily available to help make your transition easier? What about academics – do all freshmen get assigned to a student adviser? What level of teacher leads freshman classrooms? Are the class sizes small enough to allow for inclusion?

2. What is the breakdown of costs from start to finish? Are any types of financial aid or student loans available and if so, how do you get started? Are student jobs available within the university?

3. Classroom aside, what is the general lifestyle for students in the community? Do you see plenty of things to do? Can you tell where you might shop or do laundry? How about restaurants and sporting facilities? Do most students walk, take public transportation or would you need to bring a car? If so, is there ample parking?

4. Press the college for graduation statistics. For example, how many students find work in their field of study right after college? Does the university offer any alumni support or internships?

Don’t be afraid to find students and ask them any remaining questions you may have. They may give you a different view of things like how easy (or difficult) it is to meet with faculty or get into the classes you want. They can also give you an idea on what dorm to choose, which cafeteria meal plan is practical and what social events to look forward to throughout the year.

Once you get home, review your experience carefully and then follow you instincts. Hopefully you’ll have a pretty good idea of what college life will be like at each of the campuses you visited and your decision will come a bit easier. Good luck!