Virtual College Engagement

Virtual College Tours

First, see if a specific college or university offers virtual tours directly on their own website.

Why? This adds to your digital file! You’ll hear us discuss this concept of a “digital file” during our meetings. In essence, some institutions keep track of students who have logged onto their website, which pages they visit, and for how long their visit lasts on the website. They might also be aware of your engagement with them on social media, communications via email, and other forms of online interactions.

If a school does not provide virtual tours directly on their own website, there are other options available that allow you to gain a helpful view of the campus and student life. The two options we suggest you to try are YouVisit and CampusReel.

Virtual Information Sessions

Like Virtual College Tours, the online Information Sessions grew in popularity during Covid as a way of connecting with students.

These sessions are similar in format to webinars and typically last about 1 hour. They are hosted by a member of the school’s admissions team and might offer some time at the end to receive questions from the meeting attendees. This is another way for colleges and universities to build a digital file on a student and make a note of that student’s “demonstrated interest.” It’s important to remember that you must *register* for these events (which you can do on the college’s website) and know that the sessions typically cap out at a particular maximum number of attendees.

Important note about “Demonstrated Interest”

Engaging with colleges isn’t just about “checking a box” for demonstrated interest—it’s a powerful way for students to better understand a college’s academic and social environment, values, and community. As they attend virtual events, speak with reps, or follow social media channels, they build awareness of what matters to them and where they might thrive. This dual purpose—showing interest and gaining clarity—makes every touchpoint worthwhile, whether or not the college tracks it. And, in today’s digital world, meaningful engagement doesn’t require stepping foot on campus.