As Niagara College continues to adapt in an extraordinary time, it has also turned to the virtual world to give future students a glimpse at college life.

With the cancellation of NC’s annual Spring Open House in March due to COVID-19, staff quickly mobilized to offer the NC experience online. Re-launched on April 6, NC’s Virtual Spring Open Houseoffers a look inside both the Welland campus and the Daniel J. Patterson campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, with 360 degree views of the grounds and facilities narrated by a virtual tour guide. Future students can walk the vineyards, see inside labs, classrooms, learning enterprises, student centres, eateries, athletic facilities, residences and more.

“Just as we’ve found creative ways to move programs and services to online and remote delivery for our current students, our staff has been innovative in creating a way for our future students to experience Niagara College virtually,” said Niagara College president Sean Kennedy. “Given the current circumstances, we are pleased to offer a way to see inside our world-class learning environments and connect with our people, as we all look to the better days that lie ahead.”

With over 3,800 guests expected to attend the March event on campus, the new virtual tour offers a live chat feature to connect future students with campus experts from the comfort and safety of their homes. Prospective students can connect with representatives from Enrolment Services and Student Recruitment to discuss programs, admissions, tuition and fees, and more.

The online chat is open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The virtual tour also offers a deep-dive into over 130 programs, degree and transfer information, as well as program-specific videos at niagaracollege.ca/openhouse, all in one place. Students can also apply via the site for Fall Term 2020 or confirm their offer of admission.

Until May 1, Student Recruitment is holding a weekly draw for two $100 Amazon gift cards for those who register.

Niagara College offers more than 130 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.