How can I explore colleges with virtual tours effectively?

I'm currently a junior in high school and I've been trying to narrow down my college list. With everything going on, it's been tough to visit campuses in person. I've heard that many colleges offer virtual tours, and I was wondering if anyone has tips on making the most of these. Are there specific features I should be looking for during a virtual tour? Also, how do they compare to in-person visits in terms of getting a feel for the campus vibe? I’d really appreciate any advice or experiences you could share!

Taking virtual tours is a great way to get a sense of what a college campus is like, especially when you can't visit in person. Here are a few tips to effectively explore colleges with virtual tours:

1. Preparing: Before starting the virtual tour, jot down a list of things you want to see or learn about the campus. This could include the dining halls, dorms, libraries, common grounds, athletic facilities, and specific department buildings related to your major.

2. Mindset: Approach the tour as if you’re physically there. Immerse yourself in the experience and imagine walking through the hallways or spending time in the common areas.

3. Pausing and Taking Notes: You have the advantage of pausing and replaying parts of the tour, utilize it. Take notes on what stands out to you, maybe the architecture, facilities or even the landscaping.

4. Virtual Interface: Some colleges offer 360-degree tours that provide a more holistic view of the campus. Make sure to take advantage of these features.

5. Live Virtual Tours: In addition to pre-recorded tours, some schools offer live virtual tours or webinars. These often provide the opportunity to ask current students or admissions staff questions.

6. Student Perspective: Make a point to watch videos made by students for a more candid sense of campus life. These could be informal campus tours, day-in-the-life videos, or dorm room tours on platforms like YouTube.

7. Comparing Schools: After taking each virtual tour, take some time to reflect on what you liked or didn't like about the campus. This can be useful later on when comparing schools.

While virtual tours can't perfectly capture the feeling of being on campus, they can provide a valuable sense of the physical layout and the resources available. Remember, though, that a campus is just one part of the college experience. Consider other factors like the curriculum, faculty, student body, and resources as well while making your college decision. Happy virtual touring!