How to Make Your Bates Visit a Success

Are you planning a visit to Bates? Whether it’s your first trip or your second look, preparation is the key.

Why do you want to visit? Think about this: take a break from the mad rush of senior year. Find a quiet space -- your physics homework can wait. Take the IPod out of your ears. Spend ten, twenty, thirty minutes thinking about what you want to learn/do/observe on this trip.

Is there a class you want to see? Social Anthropology? Religions in China? Environmental Microbiology? Get a daily a class schedule in the Admissions Office.

Is there a certain facility you want to explore? Carnegie Science Building? Pettengill? The Ronj? Grab a map or take a campus tours from the Admissions Office.

Do you know anyone on campus? A graduate from your high school? A relative? A coach? Pick their brains. Why did they choose Bates? What are they learning at Bates? What are they doing at Bates?

Take advantage of these resources.

Have you had your interview yet? Let Bates learn more about you, as you learn more about Bates through these discussions. The deadline for interviewing on campus is Nov. 15th and the deadline to request a Bates alumni interview is Nov 15th. Call the Admissions Office: (207) 786-6000 to schedule an interview.

During your Bates visit, take the opportunity to observe the day-to-day life of students here. Go to the library and see how they interact. Eat lunch in Commons. Sit down at any table and strike up a conversation. Find out if there is a concert, a lecture or a game going on. Go see it!

This trip is what you make of it. Be proactive. Speak to strangers. Ask a few questions, and then ask some more.

Can you picture yourself spending four years at Bates?