As a current high school junior, I'm trying to get a feel for some colleges I'm interested in, but travel can be expensive and time-consuming. I've seen that a lot of colleges offer virtual tours now, and I'm wondering if these are worth the time.
Do they really give you a good sense of the campus, or are they too limited compared to in-person visits? Also, do colleges notice when you've participated in these online tours, and do they factor it into demonstrated interest? Any advice on making these tours beneficial would help a lot!
Hello! Virtual college tours can certainly be beneficial, especially when travel isn't possible or practical. They can give you a sense of the campus including layout, architecture, facilities, and sometimes even the surrounding area. You may not get the same vibe as being physically on campus, but it can be a substantial starting point in understanding the space.
Specific to demonstrated interest, it varies by institution. Some colleges keep track of students who participate in their virtual tours, seminars or webinars, which could positively contribute to the evaluation of demonstrated interest. However, it's important to note that many selective colleges do not factor demonstrated interest into their admissions decisions.
To maximize the benefit from these tours, prepare some questions ahead of time. In many virtual tours, there'll be someone to answer queries in real-time. Good questions to ask might be about dorm life, resources for your intended major, campus dining options, student organizations, or career support services.
Remember to also consider how the layout of the campus, the academic buildings, sports facilities, and dorms fit your preferences. For example, if you're into sports, look out for the athletic facilities. If you're into drama, see if they show the theater.
Consider taking notes during each tour, capturing immediate reactions and things you liked or didn't like. Over time, these impressions can blur together, so having a clear record might be beneficial when comparing options later on.
Good luck with your college search and your virtual college experiences!
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