Data isn't everything - finding the right fit is important. So how do we find the right fit when we feel like it's impossible to do a proper college search? Here are some ways to learn more.
If your family is feeling comfortable, there are some schools that will welcome your visit. It is important, whether you are planning a campus tour or a self-guided tour, that you plan ahead, and be prepared for a possible last minute change. When possible, you do want to schedule something official with the admission office (see Demonstrated Interest, below), but leave some extra time to explore the rest of campus and the nearby area on your own as well.
Things to check for:
Are guided tours running?
Are you welcome on campus to walk (or drive) around on your own (with a mask, of course)? (This answer may be NO. Some schools are completely closed off to outside visitors and you will not be allowed on campus by foot or by car).
Is there a narrated driving tour available? (VTech does, but VA is currently on the mandatory quarantine list)
Does NJ require that you quarantine for two weeks if you visit this state?
Does the college's state require that you quarantine before visiting?
In general, smaller schools are much more likely to be offering on-campus tours, as compared to large schools.
For everyone's safety - yours, the Hillsborough community and the campus community, PLEASE follow the guidelines. If you visit schools out-of-state, you should plan to stay virtual for the next two weeks.
What to expect at most locations:
A student-led outdoor tour (no dining hall, no classroom, no residence hall)
Reservations are required. No walk-ins. (please, just don't).
Masks will be required for the duration of your time on campus
Your family will need to limit who attends - student + 1 or 2 adults
Tour size will be limited to a small number of families per tour, maybe just your family
Tours may book only two weeks in advance, and availability is LIMITED.
You will likely need some type of covid screening. This may include a form to complete, a temperature check, etc.
Nearly all NJ schools ARE offering in-person tours (as of Feb 2021). Rutgers and Princeton are NOT expected to offer in-person tours this Spring. You may be able to walk-around on your own, though. Be sure to follow campus regulations if you do.
Virtual College Fairs - These are structured differently depending upon the program. Sometimes each school has a separate booth that you can pop in and out of, other times there are presentations at set times (one school at a time or a small group of schools). Registration is usually required.
Individual College Information Sessions - Look on the college website, or also on the Sessions tab for the College in SCOIR.
Virtual College Tours - Check a few places: live tours (college website), pre-recorded tours (college website), the SCOIR college details page (shows tours through YouVisit), YouTube!
Academic Information Sessions - How to find out: Get on the school's mailing list, Check the college/program website, follow the university AND the college (e.g. School of Business) AND the program on social media
HHS Visits with College Reps
Check out the Wall in SCOIR (under college details)
Check out the CampusReel videos on SCOIR or on CampusReel
Student Panels or Q&As
Workshops and Mock Classes
On Social Media Look for both "official" pages and current student feedback on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. Look for yourmajor of interest, sports/clubs of interest, the students newspaper, and anything else that can help you get the vibe of the campus.
With an increase in applications, some colleges (but not all) turn to demonstrated interest to get an idea of how serious you are about the school. Things that can indicate interest:
Physically touring at the school
Setting up an interview (these are virtual)
Setting up an account on the school website
Adding your name to the mailing list
Opening emails from the school (these are often tracked)
Attending an online information session or virtual tour
Attending an online Student Panel or Current Student Q&A
Meeting with the rep if they visit HHS (virtually)
Emailing the representative/making a personal connection (don't overdo it, though!)