what to do before going on an official visit
You've made it to the final stage of recruiting. After countless emails, phone calls, and tireless training, you've been invited on an official visit. This is more than just a free trip; it's your final audition and, most importantly, your chance to make a life-changing decision. A college official visit is a campus tour, a job interview, and a test drive all rolled into one. The school is paying for you to be there because they are seriously interested, and they want to see if you are a good fit. To make the most of this opportunity, you need to be prepared. This isn't a time to show up and wing it; it's a time to be strategic, thoughtful, and ready to get the answers you need. In many sports now, you may be even taking official visits after you’ve verbally committed to a school so you can spend more time hanging out with the athletes. Be prepared schools will need your NCAA eligbility center ID and transcripts before you come on an official visit.
Your Official Visit Prep Checklist
Before you pack your bags and get on the plane, there are a few crucial steps you need to take. A little bit of prep now will save you from a lot of stress during the visit.
Deep-Dive Research: You've likely done your homework on the school and the team, but now it's time to go deeper. Beyond their record, what is the team’s style of play? How do they use your position? Learn the coaches' backgrounds, their coaching philosophy, and what their track record is for developing players. Research the academic programs you're interested in and look up information about the professors. This level of detail shows genuine interest and makes you a much more compelling recruit.
Prepare Your Questions: An official visit is your best chance to get your most important questions answered. You'll be talking to coaches, players, academic advisors, and even administrators. Prepare a list of questions for each group. For example:
For the Coaches: "What doe my freshman year look like?" "What is your vision for the program in the next four years?" "What kind of academic support do you provide?"
For the Players: "What is the team chemistry like?" "What's the relationship like between the players and coaches?" "What's the biggest challenge of being a student-athlete here?"
For Academic Advisors: "What is a typical class schedule like for an athlete during the season?" "What resources are available for tutoring and study hall?"
For yourself: What is the atmosphere on campus? How do you feel around the team? Can you see yourself living here for the next four years?
Clean Up Your Online Presence: Coaches will be checking your social media before, during, and after your visit. This is your final chance to make sure your online presence is a positive reflection of your character. Clean up any questionable posts, remove any negative comments, and ensure your profile presents you as a mature, professional individual.
Pack Smart and Be Professional: Dress appropriately for all events, but don't overdo it. You're a high school athlete, not a businessperson. Pack a notebook and a pen to write down notes, and bring a professional folder with copies of your high school transcripts, test scores, and athletic resume. While you may not need them, having them ready shows you are organized and serious.
The Mindset: What to Think About
Beyond the checklist, a successful official visit is about how you carry yourself. Your attitude, engagement, and willingness to learn are what will ultimately win over a coach.
Be Engaged and Energetic: Show your enthusiasm. Smile, make eye contact, and be an active listener. The coaches and players are giving up their weekend for you, so show them you appreciate it. Ask a lot of questions and engage with the people you meet. A coach is looking for someone who is fun to be around and will be a positive presence in the locker room.
Talk to Everyone: Don't just stick to the script. Talk to everyone you encounter, from the school's academic advisor to the student working the dining hall. The players are your most valuable resource; don't be afraid to ask them the tough questions you wouldn't ask a coach. This is your chance to get the unfiltered truth about the program.
Trust Your Gut: You've done your research, you've asked the right questions, and you've seen the campus. Now it's time to listen to your instincts. Do you feel comfortable with the coaching staff? Do you connect with the players? Can you truly see yourself living and thriving here? Your official visit is not about finding the perfect school; it's about finding the school that is perfect for you.
An official visit is the final, and most important, piece of the recruiting puzzle. By taking the time to prepare, asking the right questions, and being a genuine, engaged recruit, you will make the most of this opportunity. It's your chance to see if the school is the right fit, and to show the coaches that you are the type of student-athlete they want on their team.
