DS just received a non-binding EA (yay!!) and is scheduled for a Shadow Day. Looking for advice on things he should be looking at, questions he should be asking, etc.
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My advice is your son use this as an opportunity to get to know the school - does he see himself there both academically and socially. He has the early acceptance and the school will really hope the visit days turns into a contract, so the ball is in his court to see if this is the place for him.
Friendly goes a long way and if he is comfortable, he should be proactive in introducing himself to other students and the teachers. Does he have a favorite subject or passion - if yes, try to speak with the teacher or advisor for a few minutes to get a deeper understanding.
He should have a few questions ready - always a good one: if you could change anything about the school what would it be, what is your fav subject, teacher, meal at the dining hall, what class are you hoping to take one semester, club and/or team related questions, question about availability of advisor or homework help.
I hope he enjoys his visit day!
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This is about getting a feel for how he would fit in, so paying attention to things like how friendly kids are to each other, how they figure out where to sit in the dining room, what the culture in the classrooms is (engaged, supportive, fun, , etc.) is all part of this.
If he is an athlete, can he go to a practice - even as an observer - as part of the shadow day?
Having some of those open-ended questions ready – as well as anything he cares about - can help start conversations as well as inform. Everything from how room and dorm assignments are made to what would you change, are there teachers students avoid (and how), what advice do you have for picking classes for next year, favorite traditions, etc.
One important thought to convey is that school is for the next 4 years, so while he is an 8th grader and focused on a great first year, at least afterwards step back and think about how the full 4 years look. (I.e., it can be great for a recruit to be a varsity starter freshman year, but how will they develop and enjoy the experience for 4 years?) You are looking for a great start to 4 great years.
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