by Andrew McCain, Director of Admissions
Just about every independent school hosts at least one Open House in every admissions season, and these schools also require prospective students to visit campus, tour, and have an interview as part of the application process. So, why do both?
Open Houses and campus visits are actually very different experiences. An Open House is designed to be an overview of multiple programs within the school and is generally attended by large groups of people; in Tabor's case we have welcomed over 300 people to campus each year. Families are given the opportunity to meet current students and gain an in depth perspective about the multiple programs offered at Tabor from our faculty members including academics, fine arts, college advising, School by the Sea initiatives, athletics, and more. A great deal of information about the school is offered, but the Open House is much more general--and thus much less personalized--than an individual visit to campus.
Families who come for a personalized tour and interview walk around campus with one or two student tour guides and then meet individually with a representative from the admissions office. It is an opportunity to see the entire community in action and to speak individually and at length with a Tabor student. Finally, it is a chance to have a personal conversation with an admissions representative, have questions answered, and gain a better understanding of whether or not there is a good match between the student and the school.
Open Houses and campus visits do have different missions and programs, but for families wanting to learn as much about a school as possible, the two together make a great combination. We hope you'll consider doing both at Tabor Academy!
We look forward to welcoming you to campus soon!
