S is a junior and a very average student (not CC average, I mean truly average). We recently talked about the types of schools that are realistic based on his expected stats, his academic interests, and what we're willing to pay for college. He likes two schools that he visited when we were looking for his sister, but I had to break it to him that he has little to no chance to get into them. He'd be happy at Temple (he thinks) but this will likely be a high match for him, so I am looking for safeties and more matches. He has been at several in-state public directionals for school or athletic events but hasn't formally visited. So far he isn't interested in those, but there are others to visit (we are in PA).
There are some smaller Catholic colleges in NY (5-6 hours away) that may be matches and that fit within our budget. I suggested to him that we visit 2 or 3 over a weekend this month so that he can see how they differ from the state schools. He has no interest at all in going. My H thinks I am jumping the gun and there's plenty of time to visit in the spring or summer. However, S plays baseball and will be going full-tilt from March until August, plus a summer job, so time will be limited. Presidents Day weekend might be an option but the weather may preclude travel.
So do I force him to visit now, even though he doesn't want to? I have no problem insisting (I am the parent, after all!) but I don't want to risk having him hate these schools--and not want to even consider them later--simply because he's uninterested right now. I am kind of controlling and his dad is very easygoing so outside perspective is welcome.
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