Why You Should Visit Colleges This Summer (Even If It's Virtual)

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Sure, summer’s for beach days and sleep-ins, but it’s also the perfect time to sneak in a few campus visits (yep, even from your couch).

Whether your teen’s still tossing around dream schools or ready to narrow it down, visiting colleges gives them a real sense of what “fit” actually feels like. It’s not just about rankings, it’s about finding the right vibe.

🎓 Why Bother Visiting Colleges?

Because websites and brochures only go so far. According to a 2023 survey from the Higher Ed Research Institute, over 60% of students said campus visits played a major role in their final college decision.

Walking across the quad, seeing the dorms, or even spotting the local coffee shop can help your teen picture themselves there, or cross it off the list.

🧳 No Travel Budget? No Problem.

You don’t need plane tickets to explore campuses anymore. Virtual visits are here, and they’re better than ever.

Start with the college’s own admissions website—many schools now offer:

• Guided virtual tours

• Interactive campus maps

• Live or recorded info sessions

• Panels with current students and professors

Google “[College Name] virtual tour” or head to their admissions page directly.

✅ Bonus: Some colleges even track your activity, so spending time on their site can count as demonstrated interest.

Then check out these additional virtual tour platforms:

🧭 CampusReel.org – Real student-led tours with honest insights

👀 YouVisit.com – 360° interactive tours of hundreds of campuses

🗣 NACAC Virtual College Fairs – Live chats with admissions reps. (Check the calendar for upcoming events!)

📒 Make the Most of It (In Person or Online):

• Jot down what you notice—likes, dislikes, surprises.

• Ask questions! Tour guides and reps want to talk to you.

• Mix it up: visit big schools and small ones.

• Snap pics or screenshots to jog your memory later.

  
  

Bonus Tip: 

After a visit, have your teen jot down 3–5 quick takeaways. These notes are pure gold when it’s time to write “Why Us?” essays.

Quick Stats + Smart Strategy:

• Students who apply to 7+ colleges are more likely to receive multiple offers.

• Some colleges track “demonstrated interest," so even clicking through a virtual tour counts in your favor.

Final Thought:

One good visit, virtual or in person, can totally change the game. It boosts confidence, helps your teen reflect, and can even help them avoid transferring later on.

Need help building your teen’s college list or planning visits that actually matter?

📩 I offer one-on-one support for families just like yours. Let’s make the college journey less confusing—and way more exciting.