For many high school seniors, the college application process is the most stressful part of their year. But in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the stakes are even higher. With limited access to guidance counselors and virtual admissions events at other colleges, Hillsdale is trying to ease the burden for prospective students.
While the actual admission process — completing the Common App, writing supplements, interviewing with an admission counselor — is largely the same as in previous years, students applying for the 2021-2022 school year are not required to submit standardized test scores.
“Students have had such a horrific time scheduling the SAT and ACT in the spring, fall, and summer because testing sites are at limited capacity and filling up very quickly, so we are going test optional for this year,” said Fred Schebor, associate senior director of admissions.
Additionally, Hillsdale is offering virtual information sessions, campus tours, and interviews for those unable to visit campus in person. While admissions counselors are still traveling around the country, uncertainty among high schools and the lack of college fairs have forced them to resort to a mixture of in-person and virtual events.
The changes haven’t been all negative, however.
Last week, the college hosted an online financial aid session with 91 families in attendance. According to Schebor, it would normally take about three in-person events to reach the same level of attendance.
Student ambassadors have also been involved in the switch to virtual events.
“We are partnering with a third-party software called HelloCampus which allows us to digitally tour students through campus,” said senior and head student ambassador Isaac Kirshner. “Each prospective is matched with one of our ambassadors, who virtually tour them through pictures of campus, showcasing campus life. We also have virtual student life panels over Zoom where prospective students can tune in and ask questions about being a Hillsdale student.”
Schebor said he’s unsure whether the college’s decision to remain on campus this fall has led to a spike in interest. He noted, however, that prospective students have said they are impressed by Hillsdale’s ability to offer in-person classes safely with protocols in place to protect students, faculty, and staff.
Unlike many schools, the college has also remained open at a limited capacity for in-person admission visits. Because COVID-19 restrictions have reduced the amount of families able to visit the college on any given day, Hillsdale is planning to host extra admissions events to make up the difference.
Aside from mask requirements and temperature checks, the actual on-campus visits are similar to previous years.
Kirshner said student ambassadors are just as invested in prospective students and explaining the liberal arts and honor code, even if they might have “to speak a little louder.”
Despite the hurdles of the coronavirus, the admissions team is remaining positive. According to Schebor, more applications have been started and completed so far this year than at the same time last year.
“We’re going to do what it takes to get it done,” said Schebor. “One of the virtues of our admissions team is tenacity. Our strategy may look different, but is it going to have a negative impact on our success?”
