New Admitted Students Digital Hub Brings Campus to You
Time and again, Widener students describe that “aha moment.”
It was the day they stepped foot on campus as prospective students and immediately knew, felt this was the place for them. This was where they could see themselves learning, growing, developing lifelong friendships, and finding their professional path forward.
“We always want to get prospective students on campus multiple times. One of our main selling points is coming to the physical location and getting that feel,” said Courtney Kelly, executive director of admissions.
And then COVID-19 hit and suddenly high school students couldn’t come to campus for tours, information sessions, and the ever-popular Accepted Student Day.
So the decision was made that if prospective students couldn’t come to campus, then campus would come to them.
In April, Widener launched its Admitted Students Digital Hub, a one-stop immersive experience where accepted undergraduate students could personally connect with the university community.
“Digital is always part of recruitment, but we asked, under these unique circumstances, how could we make it more?” said Kelly.
Through the hub, accepted students can meet professors, dive into their majors, talk one-on-one with financial aid staff members, take virtual tours, and connect through social media.
There are live, interactive Zoom sessions and pre-recorded videos that offer a glimpse into different aspects of Widener life, from athletics to student-faculty research, to living in the residence halls.
Prospective students can also hear individual student and alumni stories of how their time at Widener has helped place them on the inside track to success.
The content is fresh and engaging, and continually being updated.
“The hub is deep and multi-channeled. You can make an appointment, be on a live Zoom, listen to recordings. We’re providing different channels for what fits for your life,” said Kelly.
One of the key features of the hub is the ability for admitted students to text with a current student and ask about all aspects of Widener in “a way that they’re most comfortable with,” said Jason Britton, director of undergraduate admissions.
Developed in a partnership between Admissions and University Relations, with help from partners across campus, the hub is a prime example of how agile and creative Widener can be in addressing an ever-shifting world.
“We want students to know we’re here for you,” said Kelly. “There may be a lot of uncertainties out there. But we’re certain about you.”
