Official and unofficial visits are pivotal part of the college recruiting process that largely impact a recruits decision. Student-athletes have an opportunity to scope out the campus, meet and interact with the current team and have in-person one-on-one time with the coaching staff. With visits off the table due to the coronavirus, this is how student-athletes are still visiting college campuses.
VIRTUAL TOURS IN LIEU OF VISITING IN PERSON.
While a virtual tour isn’t the same as physically walking around campus, it gives student-athletes an opportunity to virtually walk the campus as they explore the grounds, classrooms, academic resource spaces, athletic facilities and more. Check out over 600 colleges without ever leaving home, through the website You|Visit! YouVisit gives you the opportunity to browse around the likes of the University of California – San Diego, Pepperdine University, Harvard and many more!
RESEARCH THE SCHOOLS SURROUNDING COMMUNITY.
A quick Google search of the local area around the school gives student-athletes an idea of what they have access to in the community. How close is the nearest grocery store? What types of activities are available? Student-athletes are deciding where they are going to spend four (or more) years, so it’s important that both the campuses and the community meet their needs.
CONTACT CURRENT TEAM MEMBERS.
While recruits aren’t able to get to know the team during an overnight visit, they should ask the coaching staff to put them in contact with a few members of the team. Over a phone call or video chat, student-athletes can ask team members questions about their experience and the team dynamic.
Here are a few tips to make a good impression whilst on video calls:
- Dress to Impress: You may be in the comfort of your own home, but you should dress how you would if you were meeting in person.
- Remove Distractions: Find a quiet space and notify everyone in your house about the call to prevent interruptions.
- Make Eye Contact: Make sure your camera is at eye level. When talking, you should look at your camera as if you are talking to a person in front of you and trying to maintain eye contact.
- Be Prepared: Show up to the video call prepared to answer questions and ask questions. This is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your interest in a program, as well as gain clarity on anything you are uncertain about.
Many Colleges are posting their own campus tours straight on to their social media channels, for example The University of Nebraska football team has released a "virtual visit" video for recruits.
Be sure to keep an eye out on social media for on campus tours and inside information from the universities! As always, if you have any questions about anything at all please get in touch with a member of our team!
