Are virtual college tours helpful for getting a feel for a campus?

Due to financial restrictions, I'm unable to physically visit many of the colleges I'm interested in. Are virtual college tours effective for getting a sense of campus life and atmosphere, or are they too limited? Would appreciate any input from those who have done virtual tours!

Hi there! I can understand the challenge of not being able to visit colleges in person and having to rely on virtual tours. While virtual tours can't fully replicate the in-person experience, they can still be quite valuable for getting a sense of the campus layout and facilities.

Most virtual tours provide 360-degree views of common areas, classrooms, dorms, and recreational spaces. They often include information about the programs and resources offered, which can be helpful in understanding what each college has to offer.

One thing to keep in mind is that virtual tours may not provide you with an accurate sense of the social atmosphere or energy on campus. However, you can still get a better understanding of the campus vibe by attending virtual information sessions, speaking with current students and alumni, and participating in virtual college events.

For example, my child attended an online Q&A session with a panel of current students and found it insightful for understanding the campus culture. They were able to ask questions that aren't necessarily covered in a virtual tour.

In conclusion, while virtual tours have their limitations, they can still be an effective way of exploring campuses when in-person visits aren't possible. Just make sure to supplement them with other online resources and interactions. Good luck!