Building a college list is looking quite different for juniors these days! Instead of jumping on a plane and touring eight colleges in a five day period, families are instead taking advantage of the wonderful virtual visit opportunities schools are now offering. To help students adjust to their new normal and fully take advantage of these opportunities, here is a list of tips and tricks.
Prepare as if you’ll be turning your camera on. Colleges may utilize webinar-style programs for these virtual visits, meaning that your camera and microphone will be automatically turned off. If you do have the option to turn on your camera, it is recommended you do so. Admission counselors appreciate seeing who they’re speaking to, instead of just black boxes. However, you should always have your microphone turned off unless you’re given the opportunity to ask a question.
While you certainly don’t have to dress up for virtual visits, make sure you still look presentable, your background is appropriate, and you’re not wearing a sweatshirt with another college’s mascot on it!
Feel free to make it a family affair. One benefit of these virtual visits is that the entire family can easily join.
If you register, make sure you attend. It’s much easier to forget to attend a virtual visit than an in-person one. However, it’s just as important to make sure you show up. Many colleges limit how many students they allow to register for each event and you want to make sure a spot doesn’t go to waste. Additionally, colleges that track demonstrated interest may also record if you register and participate in a virtual visit.
Take notes. These virtual visits can blend together easily. Take notes about what you like and/or dislike about each college in terms of academics, social opportunities, location, and financial aid. After the virtual visit, be sure to store your notes all in one place so that you can easily reference them later. We recommend that Simply Admissions clients use the provided college visit worksheet and store their notes on their portal.
Now’s the time to ask questions! No matter the format of the virtual visit, colleges will give you time to ask them questions. If you don’t feel comfortable doing so, that’s completely fine - no pressure! Here are some examples of some questions you may want to ask, if interested:
How has XYZ University adjusted to COVID?
What type of student do you feel is the best fit for XYZ University?
What’s a typical weeknight/weekend on campus look like?
[For pre-med students] Does the school have an affiliation with a local hospital?
[For engineering students] What types of projects have engineering students created recently?
Do you have a question about virtual visits that is not addressed here? Feel free to contact us!