Applying to colleges? Here's some advice on visiting campuses from the book "Get Into College" (Hundreds of Heads Books, www.hundredsofheads.com, $17.95), straight from people who've done it:

"I visited several schools and I liked the fact that the University of Cincinnati was an urban school with a lot to offer around campus. Later, I gave campus tours, and I was told that most students decide within their first 20 minutes of being on campus whether they want to consider that school or not."

Andrew J. Burke, Cincinnati, Ohio, University of Cincinnati"When I visited the school I ultimately chose, I knew I wanted to go there. It was the most miserable day ever. There was black ice on the sidewalk, and my eyelashes were freezing together. And I still wanted to go there, so I figured, 'This must be the place.' It was a small campus. They had small classes. Everyone was very friendly, I just felt really comfortable there."

Julie Collins, Des Moines, Iowa, Drake University"Visit the college when school is in session before making any final decisions; you're going to spend the next four years of your life there! Prospective students should not only look at the buildings when visiting the schools; they should take a look at the students walking around the campus. Do they look happy to be there?"

Erica Goldenberg, Bloomington, Ind., Indiana University