From time to time, parents tell me that they are planning to visit colleges only after their teen gets accepted. While I understand that it is costly, as well as time consuming, when it comes to making a decision about whether or not to apply, there is nothing more important than a college visit. Why? Well, there are several reasons. One is all colleges tend to look the same in their glossy promotional materials, but they often look different in person. Two, students often have to write an essay addressing why they want to attend a college or university, and that is much easier if you have visited. And three, talking to current college students gives you valuable insight into student satisfaction.