Making your college list virtually

Beautiful brick buildings on a hillside with a few students studying on the front lawn. This is what we imagine when we think of stepping foot on a college campus. We are used to seeing individuals being shoulder to shoulder down a sidewalk as a group of high school students and parents dodge college students on their way to class, look around, and listen to the campus highlights and ask questions.

This year, high school students everywhere are comparing architecture on colleges websites and having a hard time distinguishing between what they see. Here are some tips for researching schools and visiting colleges from a distance.

First of all, take a minute and really think about what is important to you as you put together your list of schools you are excited about. Is it distance from home? academic programs? size? cost? Whatever the criteria is, both the student, parents and college counselor should discuss what are the “must haves.” Then, create a spreadsheet comparing these. I often like to use college data.com to gather this information and learn about a college before visiting.

Next, try to experience each college as much as possible. Don’t just look at the pictures of buildings and students on their website! Go to the “visit” part of the admissions website and see what is currently offered. Most colleges are offering virtual visits that allow you to attend a similar information session that is offered in person, taking a virtual tour of campus and hear from a panel of students and professionals. Many schools are also offering informational sessions in the different majors or schools within the college. When visiting in person, colleges often offered opportunities to meet with current students. So, if it is not easily accessible from their website, email the admissions office and ask to be connected with a student or with your regional admissions representative. This is a great way to show interest and learn more about campus from someone that lives on campus most of the year.

Finally, take notes. Before you move on to the next college or the next part of your day, take a moment to list your initial impressions. Am I more or less excited? What did I learn from my time spent? Then, think of at least two things you really enjoyed (pros) and one or two things you did not love (cons). Once you begin to further understand what you are looking for and which schools you are really excited about, it is much easier to build a balanced list and begin working on applications!