Besides specific, factual information, seek out your student guide's personal opinions. Don't forget to pick up a course catalog. Colleges are trying to control costs, so catalogs are not automatically mailed with applications and viewbooks. While you may not have much interest in the catalog initially, it will be a valuable resource in researching a major or deciding on a particular school. Lastly, if you are beginning your search, try to visit a large state university, a smaller university, and some liberal arts colleges with 1,000 to 3,000 students.
Applicants frequently alter their preferences after visiting a range of sizes.
If the family finances allow it, don't let distance from home inhibit your choices. The United States has an extraordinary diversity of schools, and the college experience can be the best four years of your life. After you have made new friends, you will be amazed how the desire to come home diminishes. Additionally, please realize the colleges are seeking geographic diversity, and the more distant you are from the school, the more that demographic can work in your favor in the admissions process. Best of luck in receiving nothing but acceptance letters.