Admitted Students Day is a time where Bulldogs from every corner of campus come together, working to shine a spotlight on the incredible things that happen at Drake each day. Every year, their hard work pays off as high school students from across the world attend these visit days to find that Drake is the place they want to spend the next phase of their lives learning and growing.

This year, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University made the decision to recreate the experience online, allowing prospective students to attend remotely. On March 27 and April 3, Drake held its first Virtual Admitted Students programs. More than 450 students from over 30 states and 10 countries participated—a record for any group visit program!

During the virtual visits, potential new students and their families connected with Drake students, staff, and faculty to see a mix of live and pre-recorded content. Administrators answered students’ questions about financial aid, residence life, campus safety and health, and everything that makes Drake home. Professors from each college gave students a glimpse into academic life at Drake, including virtual classes, and students from all over campus filmed vlogs and campus tours.

Thanks to the adaptability and hard work from Drake students, faculty, and staff, the Admissions team in close collaboration with University Communications and Marketing, was able to virtually bring students helpful and engaging content designed to answer common questions and to replicate the information they would have received during an on-campus visit. Students who attended the virtual visit overwhelmingly described it as fun, welcoming, informative, and friendly.  

High school students didn’t ask to be making such a pivotal decision in the midst of such unprecedented global circumstances, but they are making the most of it, and so are we. We are #draketogether, and will continue to work together to bring the Drake experience to as many future Bulldogs as possible.

— Meredith Ponder, University Communications & Marketing