How to explore colleges when you can’t visit
Visiting a school is always a great way to learn more about it and consider whether the campus is a good fit for you. But sometimes—because of costs, time restraints, or travel logistics—visiting in person may not be possible.
In those circumstances, there are still ways for you to go beyond brochures to learn more about all that a school offers. Consider these alternatives:
Visit virtually
Many schools have created virtual tours, letting you explore their campuses through photos, videos, and even virtual reality technology that’s the next best thing to being there in person. A number of Coalition schools have created virtual tours focused on college access, affordability and student success. Explore Coalition virtual tours.
Look for more links to these immersive, information-rich experiences on admissions websites.
Take a deep dive into the school’s website
Look beyond the homepage or admissions information and explore the academic programs that interest you; take a look through the event calendar—even events in the past—to see what’s happening week to week; look for lists of clubs and campus organizations; explore the campus dining menus. Whatever is most important to you, look for it reflected on the school’s site.
Get social
Follow the school’s social media accounts -- both to see what the school shares about itself on a daily basis and also to see what its community is sharing. Scroll through the school’s updates and look for a common hashtag or geotagged content where you might see content from current students and alumni.
Ask the admissions office to connect you with a student like you
One of the most helpful parts of taking a campus tour is hearing directly from a current student about what makes their school special. You don’t need to be on campus, though, to connect with the student body. The admissions office should be able to put you in touch, over email or sometimes texting, with a student whose academic interests or hometown matches your own. Think of it as a chance to have a “tour guide” all to yourself.
Go beyond the student perspective
You can also ask the admissions office to put you in touch with a professor, if you have questions about the academic experience, or an alum. There may even be an alum in your area who’d be willing to meet up in person or connect in another way to talk about their experience at the school. Consider it your first networking meeting!
Attend virtual events
The Coalition offers regular events that give you a chance to learn about many schools from the comfort of home. Ask your school-specific questions or get expert advice on applying to college. Explore our upcoming events.
Connect with your admissions representative
Many students don’t realize that they have an admissions representative at many colleges and universities. This person is typically assigned by location of your high school and is usually the person who will review your application. They are there for any questions that you may have about the college or university. You are able to find out who this is by either reaching out to the general admissions office email, or to search the specific school’s webpage.
Explore on Scoir
With your free account on Scoir, you can discover schools that match your interests and learn about their academic programs and campus life, and begin building your college list. Create your Scoir account.
