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What to Ask on Your K-12 School Tour

Make the most of your visit to ensure a prospective school is right for your family.

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Understanding a school’s culture is essential. Asking staff how they support students’ sense of belonging can demonstrate how leaders are thinking about building an inclusive and supportive space.

Whether your child is entering kindergarten, middle or high school, you’ve moved to a new school district, or you’re exploring private schools, a tour can be a great way to get to know a prospective new school. Here are some questions to ask to make the most of these visits – whether in person or online – and make sure the school you select is one both you and your child feel good about.

School Logistics and Operations 

What looks like a great school on paper, and feels like a good fit when you visit, might not be right if it doesn’t work with the realities of your life. Matt Thornton, director of the Robert C. Parker School near Albany, New York, says many of the questions he gets from families are logistical, and it makes sense to think granularly about what it would mean for your family (and your schedule) to attend the school. Some questions to consider asking about logistics include:

• What time does the school day begin, and when is the earliest children can be dropped off?
• Is before- and after-school care available, and how much does it cost? 
• Is busing available for all students?  

In addition, now that all districts have experience with virtual learning, you might ask whether – and under what conditions – the school would go virtual. Will the school cancel for snow days, or will students be expected to log in from home during inclement weather? And if there is an expectation of virtual learning at any point, find out if the school provides devices. Finally, Thornton recommends asking about COVID-19 and more general health and safety policies, so you are clear about the expectations and environment.

Academics and Learning Opportunities

Before visiting, look up the school online to gather information on academic outcomes, so you can ask questions about any data you find concerning. In addition to checking independent rankings , you can look up state assessments for individual public schools by searching your state report card website .

At the same time, keep in mind that the data captured doesn’t tell the entire story. Andrew Theado, principal at Upper Arlington High School in central Ohio, encourages any caregiver with questions or concerns about a school’s ranking to look into what it’s based on, which can help give context to the data. And Thornton notes it’s important to remember there are other ways for students to demonstrate mastery of a given subject beyond just state assessments.

He suggests asking these questions on tours to understand how schools are measuring student learning:

• How does the school assess children?
• How will I know my child is growing as a learner?
• How engaged in learning are students at this school?

Finally, at the high school level especially, it’s important to ask about the different programs and pathways the school offers learners. Are there Advanced Placement courses? Partnerships with local universities? Career and technical tracks? Students who have strong academic interests in certain subjects might ask about learning opportunities in those areas. And students who are identified as needing services, including through 504 plans and IEPs , can ask how the school would accommodate them – especially at private schools, where special education services are not mandated by law.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives and School Culture

An environment where students feel safe, comfortable and welcome is an environment that’s conducive to learning. That’s why understanding a school’s culture is essential. Asking staff how they support students’ sense of belonging – whether through clubs and activities or schoolwide policies and priorities – can demonstrate how leaders are thinking about building an inclusive and supportive space. Thornton recommends asking:

• How does the school incorporate social-emotional learning?  
• What are the school initiatives around diversity, equity and inclusion? How is the curriculum informed by the work? Who is responsible for supporting these initiatives?
• What is the school’s mission statement, and how is it enacted throughout the building? 

“I think any school worth their salt will have a very robust mission statement that can be shown with examples,” Thornton says. Similarly, Theado’s decisions as an administrator are informed by the building’s strategic plan, which prioritizes fostering a sense of belonging for all students through extracurricular opportunities. “We want to make sure that all students have a place to plug in,” he says.

Limitations of Remote Tours

With some tours taking place remotely, whether due to coronavirus restrictions or for families who haven’t yet moved to the area, getting the overall feeling of the building can be challenging, even once you have all your questions answered.

Columbus parent Katy Macke says she and her child decided against a highly ranked high school after visiting in person, in part because they didn’t find the exterior and grounds welcoming. “We want it to feel like you’re pulling up to a school that you’re proud to go to,” she says.

The entranceway alone can tell you a lot about a school; you might ask to see photos of this area. Other spaces that are important to students – and are often left out of tours – are the bathrooms and the cafeteria. If you feel awkward asking for photos, you can always ask to talk to families of current students to get more information. “To hear it from a parent perspective is really good,” Thornton says.

How to Pick Your Child's High School

Tags: K-12 education , parenting , students , elementary school , middle school , education

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9 questions to help you learn more on a high school tour

by: The GreatSchools Editorial Team | Updated: May 4, 2024

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The answers to these questions will help reveal what the school is really like. Students can tell you about the school’s culture. Parents can tell you if the administration is proactive, responsive, or neither. Educators and staff members should be able to discuss the school’s mission , priorities, and programs — and why they make a difference.

In addition to asking the following questions, use our high school tour checklist and what to consider worksheets to keep track of what each school has to offer.

3 questions to ask a teacher or staff member

1. how does your school use new ideas from the science of learning and education research .

A great answer should have specifics, going beyond a single idea or policy. If you only hear about a single teacher introducing a mindful minute before class or how the school is shifting to a later start time then you know the school doesn’t have a deep focus on evidence-based policies and practices.

Example: Studies show that long lectures aren’t effective, so we use inquiry-based learning to give students more choice in both what they learn and how to show it. Teachers use technology tools and brain-based teaching techniques to engage students, etc.

2. What are your school’s most effective practices for helping kids get into college and succeed once they get there?

A great answer should mention a wide range of college counseling services designed to be used by all students, starting in ninth or tenth grade. If all you hear is that the school’s college counseling services are limited, don’t start until junior year, or are focused exclusively on certain students, the school probably doesn’t have high-quality college counseling.

Example: We have a dedicated career and college counseling center — with a full-time college counselor — that’s open to all students five days a week. Local college students volunteer year-round to help students with the application process. We have a required college preparation class starting in ninth grade that helps students explore their passions, research careers and colleges, and go through the college application and financial aid process. We have a college FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) night where we work individually with every family to fill out their financial aid applications. We bring colleges in to talk to students and bring alumni back to talk about their college experiences. We take students on tours of local colleges.

3. How do you support students in finding their passions or career pathways?

A great answer should give you specific examples of the ways that all students go through programs or processes that help them explore and imagine their futures. If you only hear about a couple of popular after-school clubs or electives, such as robotics, you know that the school doesn’t have a lot of support for exploring career pathways. The best schools offer a diverse array of pathways and career exploration that are woven into the school day.

Example: We do a lot of project-based learning to allow students to design learning projects and go deep on a subject. Every senior does a year-long senior capstone project , which teaches them to tackle a real-world problem and present it to the community. We also have three popular pathways – digital media, medicine, and mechanics and engineering – which let students develop skills and explore future careers. Our internship program pairs juniors with community businesses they’re interested in to get a taste of different professions.

Additional questions to ask a teacher or staff member:

• What’s one thing the school needs to improve on?
• What has the school struggled with the most in the past few years?

3 questions to ask a parent

1. what does the school do when a student is failing.

A great answer offers specifics that show the school actively supports students with many intervention strategies before students fail. If you hear that it’s up to parents or students to ask for help, take note. Schools that proactively intervene when kids are struggling do far better than schools that wait for students or parents to ask for help. Similarly, it’s important to gauge the quality of the support services available. For instance, tutoring is an important intervention but not all tutoring is equally effective. Research suggests that peer and volunteer tutoring – while helpful – is not as effective as tutoring with teachers or trained paraprofessionals.

Example: The school doesn’t wait until a student fails. Their teacher or counselor will call you even if your child starts slipping behind in a class. Your student can get one-on-one tutoring from teachers and peers . We’ve adopted mastery-based learning so students can learn at their own pace, do homework and tests over again if they need to, and eventually succeed in any class, no matter how long it takes.

2. How does the school involve families?

A great answer suggests that the school actively engages all families meaningfully and makes every effort to remove barriers to family engagement. Schools committed to engaging families will find ways to do so even if the families are busy or don’t speak English. Fundraising for specific programs is fine, but ideally, schools should be working to build community and engage parents about their child’s academic and emotional success.

Example: I really feel like the school makes an effort. A few years ago, the school redid its mission statement and parents helped write the statement and our core values. They often have Zoom meetings so we don’t have to attend parent meetings in person. They send out lots of surveys to get our input on everything from whether we have a school safety (police) officer to what kinds of electives they’re going to offer.

3. What has your child’s experience been like with their teachers?

A great answer makes it clear that teachers are professionals who know their subject matter, care about their students, and emphasize equity in their teaching. A not-so-great answer suggests that each teacher operates in their own private world without much oversight from the school administration. This isn’t uncommon: at many schools, teachers have a lot of autonomy and their skills vary widely. The best schools have practices that make sure all teachers are using effective, equitable methods, including a culture of high teaching standards and a commitment to care about each student as an individual.

Example: The teachers are really accessible. The school has created an advisory period and now students have the same advisor for all four years. My child loves his advisor and feels like he can go to her anytime.

Additional questions to ask a parent:

• Do your students come home excited about learning?
• What do you wish the school would do?

3 questions to ask a student

1. what are you learning these days.

A great answer makes it clear that no matter the subject — from math and science to humanities and history — students are excited about what they’re learning and they can talk about it. Rigorous education requires students not only to learn new material but to talk about it and use it in new ways. When this happens, kids feel more ownership over their learning and their education feels more relevant to their lives. If the student’s answer just involves references to quizzes and units rather than ideas and the substance of what they’re learning, it suggests that the point of school is to follow rules and get good grades rather than actual learning.

Example: We are doing really fun small group projects on how different cultures have influenced local arts. My group is doing something on New Orleans musicians who helped create early American jazz. I suggested doing this one since I’m a jazz saxophonist! I wrote the music for our 10-minute video presentation.

2. What’s the best thing about the school?

A great answer from students will vary, but since high school is first and foremost a place where your child is going to learn something or grow emotionally, then good answers should be about learning (not necessarily academic) or a sense of community, rather than something narrow like a single sports team. If you hear nothing about the teachers, the academics, the environment on campus, or unique programs, it tells you something: the school isn’t making a big impression on the student.

Example: At my middle school, it was really cliquey and hard to make friends. But here everyone is really chill. And the teachers and staff actually care. Ms. Jones, Mr. Blake, and Mrs. Achimbe are awesome. Literally, there are so many cool teachers. I feel like I can always talk to someone .

3. What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on this year?

A great answer should reveal that the student actually had: 1) a project that was memorable, and 2) a sense of agency over what they learned. Schools that understand how students learn the best offer some kind of project-based learning , which has been shown to engage students far more than traditional, lecture-based, teach-to-the-test education. If you only hear about projects in clubs or after school or the student can’t recall a project, it may be a sign that for the most part, classroom learning mostly involves students passively listening to their teachers lecture. Ideally, the school is using projects as a way to teach academic subjects all four years of high school.

Example: We got to do a project in biology about ocean acidification and its effect on different marine ecosystems. With an aquarium, we created this exhibition that showed how the coral reefs are dying and presented it at the local museum with actual scientists in the audience. It was really intense.

Other questions you can ask a student:

• What do you think the school could do better?
• Do you ever feel bored at school? When?

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Everything You Need to Know About School Tours

Before enrolling your child in a new school, it’s important to do your research. Looking up information about schools near you is a good place to start, but when it comes to getting a full picture of what a school is like, nothing beats an in-person visit. 

At BASIS Charter Schools, we proudly offer tours to prospective families. During these tours, we deliver all the information that families need to make an informed decision for their child.

Signing up for a tour is easy! Simply visit our Events page, select the tour you’re interested in, and RSVP via Eventbrite.

Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for a tour at a BASIS Charter School campus.

Benefits of going on a school tour

Going on a school tour is a great way to learn about potential schools for your child. Some of the main reasons to tour a school include:

• Seeing classrooms in action: School tours often give you a chance to observe a classroom, allowing you to see what your child’s day-to-day learning environment will look like.
• Having the opportunity to ask questions: Asking questions can be incredibly valuable as you consider different schools for your child. A school tour is the perfect time to ask your questions and get immediate answers!
• Meeting teachers and staff: Before you send your child off to a new school, you want to make sure that they’ll be in good hands. Going on a school tour is a great way to meet school leadership, faculty, and staff.
• Getting familiar with the campus : During a school tour, a staff member will show you around different parts of the campus. This gives you a chance to assess the cleanliness and safety of the school. Plus, touring a school helps you and your child become familiar with the layout of the campus, which can ease some first-day-of-school stress .
• Learning about the school’s values: During a school tour, a staff member will speak to you about the history and mission of BASIS Charter Schools. Plus, you’ll learn about the individual school’s culture and community.

What to expect from your BASIS Charter School tour

On a school tour, you’ll learn about who we are, what makes our curriculum unique, and why we excel at teaching K–12 students.

Our tours are led by experienced school administrators who know our schools inside and out. After some introductions and an overview of what BASIS Charter Schools are, you’ll set off on your walk-through tour of the campus.

During the tour, you can expect a brief look inside some of the classrooms. You’ll also be shown areas such as the multi-purpose room, playground, and art room. Along the way, your tour guide will provide detailed information about the BASIS Charter School Curriculum, school culture, extracurricular activities, and more. There is plenty of time to ask questions—both during the tour and at the end!

Our tours are approximately 45–60 minutes long. We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to start so that you have plenty of time to check in at the front desk and get a visitor’s badge. For security purposes, we require all adult attendees to present photo identification when checking in.

How to prepare for your school tour

Excited about your upcoming school tour? We get it; we’re excited to see you, too! Here are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of the experience.

Research the school

First and foremost, we recommend doing a bit of research on the school you’ll be visiting. Here are a few pages on our website that will help you learn more about our high-performing schools:

• About BASIS Charter Schools
• BASIS Charter School Curriculum
• Awards and Rankings

Of course, you’ll learn more about these topics during your school tour—but getting a head start doesn’t hurt!

Make a list of questions

Take some time to jot down any questions you may have about the school you’re touring. Whether it’s general questions about BASIS Charter Schools’ teaching philosophy or specific questions geared towards your child’s needs, a school tour is a great time to get answers!

Some example questions include:

• What is your average class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
• Do you offer any before- or after-school programs?
• What types of extracurricular activities are available?
• How are fine arts incorporated into your curriculum?
• What kind of student support do you provide?
• What is the enrollment process like?

Don’t forget to bring your list of questions with you on your tour. This will ensure you don’t forget anything you were meaning to ask!

Get ready to take notes

There’s a lot to take in during a school tour! Whether you prefer to use your phone or a notepad and pen, be sure to bring something with you that you can use for notetaking. During the tour, write down any key details, as well as your general impression of the school.

Involve your child in the tour process

If possible, we recommend bringing your child along for your school tour. This is a great way for your child to become familiar with the campus and meet teachers and staff. Your child’s impression of the school may also play a large role in your decision-making process.

Mark your calendar

Set a reminder for your tour date and make sure you have a plan for getting to the school on time. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start time, so you have time to check in.

Take the next step—sign up for a school tour!

What are you waiting for? If you haven’t already, sign up for a school tour today by visiting our Events page and registering for a tour at your local BASIS Charter School campus. 

We hope to see you on a tour soon!

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School Tours of America

A uniquely american story, it started in a small classroom in texas....

In 1976, charismatic social studies teacher Frank Harvey took his class on a trip from Texas to Washington, DC. Inspired by the effect on his students, Frank soon launched his own educational tour company, American Student Travel (AST). Over the next two decades, AST became the fastest growing and most respected company of its kind, taking over half a million students to the East Coast. Moreover, AST became a highly successful model for start-up companies in an emerging industry of educational travel boutiques.

The hallmark of AST’s success was its personal and customized approach. The company’s educational tour planners treated clients like family because AST was a family. Frank’s son, Lance, also grew up in this family of teachers, spending two decades working in every facet of the industry. Even as AST grew, Frank maintained his personal approach: meeting teachers in Washington, DC, listening to their needs, and quite memorably, giving generous gifts of authentic political memorabilia.

When it all changed…

As the boom of the late 1990s transformed the American economy, educational tours suddenly became big business. Bankers and foreign corporations entered the picture. While do-it-yourself websites replaced traditional travel agencies, the corporations recognized the potential profitability of “educational travel.” The first company they set their sites on was American Student Travel. Over the next ten years, private equity firms, Wall Street banks and foreign investors raced to purchase dozens of the remaining tour companies. The healthy, specialized industry of educational travel was replaced by a small group of enormous conglomerate tour corporations.

The corporatization of educational tours

Corporatization - to be influenced by or take on the features of a large commercial business, especially in being bureaucratic and uncaring ~ Collins Dictionary

The corporatization of educational travel snatched control of the industry from educators like Frank Harvey and handed it to large marketing teams. Investor profits became the top priority and every facet of the tour suffered. Inexperienced guides and coordinators, distant hotels, poor flight schedules, and call centers became standard. Even more frustrating was the emergence of Wall Street pricing tactics, punishing fees and skyrocketing prices.

Frank Harvey’s AST East Coast tours focused on empowering youth and the importance of citizenship, especially for those who couldn't normally afford the experience.

While the corporations attempted to maintain the appearance of these principles, the truth became evident to thousands of veteran tour leaders. A teacher entrusted with the responsibility of chaperoning 150 eighth-graders on a cross-country trip has far too much at stake to leave everything to a faceless corporation. Consequently, hundreds of veteran teachers began to abandon the tour, leaving fewer students able to experience this life-changing opportunity.

Being the change we wish to see...

The investment bankers, however, underestimated the determination of the educators who had built AST alongside Frank. The pioneers of the historic East Coast tour were not interested in compromising its quality in order to deliver more destinations or an inferior product at a higher cost. In 2002, ten of the most experienced and respected educational tour specialists joined forces to form School Tours of America.

Today, Frank Harvey, his son Lance, and the nation’s most experienced tour staff maintain the unique educational qualities of the East Coast tour.

By listening to teachers and rejecting the corporate tour one-size-fits-all model, School Tours of America preserved the quality of the guides and customization of the tour bookings. Most importantly, they brought back the personal educator-based approach that earned Frank Harvey’s AST such a fiercely loyal following. School Tours of America remains the original and only East Coast specialist by never aiming to be the biggest, only the best.

Schedule your campus visit

In-person info sessions and tours.

We offer two types of campus visits each week.

• Info session and student-led tour:  Our info sessions are hosted by admissions officers who share details about academics, campus life, the application process, and financial aid. A student-led campus tour immediately follows the info session.
• Student-led tour only:  One of our amazing students will take you on a tour of their favorite places on campus.

Info sessions last half an hour, and student led tours are one hour.

Reservations are required. Should you arrive without a reservation for a session, we will not be able to accommodate you.

In-person group tours

If you would like to bring a group of 6–50 people to campus, you are welcome to request a group tour . We are not able to accommodate groups of 6–50 people in our regular information sessions and tours.

Please note that we can only accommodate requests for visits placed 3 weeks in advance.

Severe weather: What if MIT closes?

In case of severe weather, the Admissions Office follows the Institute emergency closing guidelines. If MIT is closed, the Admissions Office is closed and all visit programming is canceled. We will post any closures to mitadmissions.org and notify you of any cancellations by email. If you would like to reschedule your visit, it’s easy! Simply fill out a new reservation form.

Visiting & Admission Events

Undergraduate Admission Events

Graduate Admission Events

New School students live and study in the center of one of the world's most celebrated cities. See it for yourself by exploring our New York City campus or by joining one of our many online events and information sessions.

The Welcome Center

Our Welcome Center building is located at 72 Fifth Avenue, on the corner of 13th Street, and is open weekdays when the university is in session.

The Welcome Center will be closed from May 15 through May 27. In-person services and campus tours will resume Tuesday, May 28.     

Visit our Welcome Center Virtual Desk to connect with a student assistant and learn more about our academic programs, our admission requirements, and campus life. The virtual desk will not be available May 21 through May 27. 

If you can't visit us in person, you can take our virtual tour or connect with us through one of our online events.

• Visit the Virtual Welcome Desk

Take our virtual campus tour to discover spaces that aren't available on an in-person campus tour, such as classrooms, residence halls, making facilities, and performance venues. Even better, it's available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in seven languages.

• Start the Virtual Tour
• View University Housing

Student-led campus tours introduce visitors to our academic facilities. Student housing is not included. Only those with appointments will be able to tour campus. Please register for the tour most appropriate for your interests.

Undergraduate Programs Tours These 90-minute student-led campus tours introduce visitors to the undergraduate academic facilities at Parsons School of Design, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, and/or the College of Performing Arts. These tours provide a general and broad overview of campus facilities frequented by undergraduate students at The New School. Those seeking a more focused introduction to a particular area of study are encouraged to register for a school-specific tour. 

Graduate Programs Campus Tour These 60-minute student-led campus tours introduce visitors to the graduate academic facilities at Parsons School of Design, the Schools of Public Engagement, and/or The New School for Social Research. These tours provide a general and broad overview of campus buildings used by graduate students at The New School. Those seeking a more focused introduction to a particular area of study are encouraged to connect directly with program chairs or faculty. 

Parsons Undergraduate Programs Campus Tours These 60-minute student-led campus tours introduce visitors to the undergraduate academic facilities at Parsons School of Design. Those seeking a more general and broad overview of undergraduate study at The New School, including study at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts and/or the College of Performing Arts, are encouraged to register for an Undergraduate Programs tour. 

Lang Campus Tour These 60-minute student-led campus tours introduce visitors to the undergraduate academic facilities at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts. Those seeking a more general and broad overview of undergraduate study at The New School, including study at Parsons School of Design and/or the College of Performing Arts, are encouraged to register for an Undergraduate Programs tour. 

College of Performing Arts Undergraduate Programs Campus Tour These 60-minute student-led campus tours introduce visitors to the undergraduate academic facilities at the College of Performing Arts. Those seeking a more general and broad overview of undergraduate study at The New School, including study at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts and/or Parsons School of Design, are encouraged to register for an Undergraduate Programs tour. 

If you are unable to schedule an in-person tour, we encourage you to take our virtual tour and connect with us through one of our many additional online events. 

• Schedule an Undergraduate Programs Tour
• Schedule a Graduate Programs Tour
• Schedule a Parsons Undergraduate, Lang, or College of Performing Arts Tour
• Get Directions to Campus

Application Preparation Workshops offer tools to prospective undergraduate students planning to apply to a New School program. The workshops cover all aspects of the application process, including audition and portfolio preparation, writing a strong statement of purpose and/or essay, and gathering and submitting supplemental materials.

Register for an Application Preparation Workshop

Meet with a Parsons undergraduate admissions representative for a virtual portfolio review!

These portfolio review sessions give undergraduate prospective students the opportunity to meet one-on-one with an Admission representative and discuss work being considered for inclusion in the portfolio as part of an application to Parsons School of Design. 

All appointments are held Eastern Standard Time. Be prepared to share digital documentation of your portfolio. Please include your best and most recent work. Works-in-progress and sketchbooks are also welcome.

For advice on what work to bring to your appointment, review our  portfolio tips . We look forward to meeting you!

Register for a portfolio review!

Information Sessions are 45- to 60-minute in-person presentations by Admission staff designed for students interested in applying for admission. 

Register for an Information Session

National Portfolio Day events are held virtually and in person in multiple locations across the United States, Canada, and Europe.

These annual events provide students with the unique opportunity to meet individually with representatives from accredited art and design colleges and universities. Portfolio reviews are strongly encouraged for applicants who plan to pursue higher education in the visual arts and related fields. At these meetings, school representatives will be available to review your artwork, discuss programs, and answer questions about professional careers in art and design.

Check out the list of  upcoming National Portfolio Days  that our graduate and undergraduate admission teams will be attending.

Interested students should also visit the National Portfolio Day Association  website  to learn more and officially register to attend these events. 

Thinking about transferring to The New School to study liberal arts? Pursue your passions and further your career in one of our undergraduate programs at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts or the Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students. Prospective transfer students can register for an individual appointment to discuss the transfer application process and receive an estimate of eligible transfer credits.

Register for a Transfer Appointment

These virtual events give prospective students and their families the opportunity to directly connect with members of our student team .

Virtual Student Panels Learn about our university, academic programs, application processes, student life, and much more as our students talk about life on our urban campus and answer questions directly from you.

For the fall semester, Student Panels will be available Thursdays at 6:00 p.m.

Student Team Talks These virtual events gave prospective students and their families the opportunity to directly connect with members of our student team and get an insider’s view of the New School experience. These 45-minute online presentations/chats go in depth on a single topic.

Register for a Student Team Talk or Panel

Admitted Student Events

Throughout the months of March and April, the Office of Admission offers both online and in-person events, including campus tours, specifically for students offered admission for the fall. Admitted students are encouraged to register for one or more of these events. 

Admission Appointments

The Office of Admission offers both online and in-person appointments for prospective applicants and family members who would like to meet individually with an admission counselor to identify best-fit programs and discuss the admission process.  

Undergraduate (first-year and transfer) appointments

Graduate appointments

Bachelor's Program for Adults and Transfer Students Admission appointments

AAS Admission appointments

Admission Events

We offer a full calendar of information sessions, open house events, off-site college and graduate school fairs, student panels and talks, portfolio reviews, and performing arts workshops.

Special Group Tours

School counselors, community and group leaders, and others interested in scheduling a special group tour should submit their request through our  Special Tour Request Form . We are currently welcoming groups of 20 people or fewer to our campus. 

Request a Special Group Tour

Connect with Us

If you would like to connect individually with an Admission counselor with questions about our programs, campus, or application process, please contact us by phone at 212.229.5150 or 800.292.3040 or by email at [email protected] .

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How to Conduct a Successful Tour of Your School

A successful school tour is one of the most essential necessities when it comes to potentially increasing your student enrollment. Some schools encounter challenges when marketing their facilities when trying to secure prospects who are interested enough to take part in a school tour. 

Once you invite parents to your school, closing the deal is crucial before they walk out of your building. One of the best ways to seal that deal is by providing a tour of your school. By the end of your school tour, parents will hopefully enroll their children at your school, or at least leave with a positive impression about what your school offers.

School Tour Basi cs

First things first, make sure you mentally prepare yourself for your tour by anticipating what types of questions you’ll receive from prospective parents. To do this, make sure you are knowledgeable about all aspects of your school including what you have to offer, your programs, and facilities. When you can answer questions confidently, it will give parents the impression that their child will receive a top-notch education at your school.

Also, it’s beneficial to customize your tour for each visitor’s individual needs. Your school may provide an excellent education, but if you cannot cater to each family’s unique set of needs, you will lose their interest.

Finally, one of the most essential parts of giving a tour of your school is knowing when to stop talking! Parents may think that your school is an outstanding facility because classes are small and teachers are very knowledgeable. But remember, not everyone wants to hear you talk indefinitely about how awesome you and your school are.

Now that we have discussed some basics, let’s get into how to present your school tour.

How To Conduct A School Tour

1. making a good introduction.

Make sure you start with an introduction. You may consider incorporating some technology, such as a virtual school tour video or a PowerPoint presentation, which you can edit as needed. When you start with this type of approach, parents can get an idea of what your school looks like, and some of the special programs you offer.

Also, make sure to greet everyone in the room before starting your presentation. It helps make all parents feel welcome when they come to your school.

The second step is your presentation, during which you will showcase everything that your school has to offer. From classrooms to the library and extra-curricular activities, this is your chance to impress parents. This also serves as a tour for those who have not yet seen your facility. 

2. Q & A Session

After presenting your school to prospective families, it’s time to stop. This is crucial because if you go on talking for too long, your audience might lose interest. They might even consider the presentation mediocre.

An excellent way to end your presentation is by asking questions. Find out if parents have any questions about your presentation, or if they need some time to collect their thoughts. Since choosing a school is a significant decision, most people like to take some time. This can help you determine who is not interested and keep an eye out for those who are.

Give parents time and space to consider all aspects of your school, but do not let them forget what they saw and heard. Remember that ensuring that people leave with a positive image of your school is the key to attracting new students.

3. Highlighting Positives

When showing your school to parents, make sure to convey all of the reasons why your school is outstanding. If you believe that your school is impressive, this will be reflected in your words and help portray a positive image of your facility.

Remember to relay all information in a professional manner. Try to avoid being too wordy with details. And at the same time, do not leave them thinking that your school is mediocre.

It’s also beneficial to present information that will help parents see why their child would be a perfect fit for your school. If you know the child’s specific interests, then use this to your advantage. You may convince parents about why they need to enroll their children at your school by incorporating that information into your discussion. This can be highly effective when done correctly.

Finally, it’s time to give parents a real tour of your school. Be sure to include all areas of your facility, including the library, gymnasium, and any other areas that will enable parents to see what their children’s days would look like. If you’re not able to fit it all in in one visit, don’t worry. Let parents know what they can expect from your school, and take steps to answer their queries when possible.

NJC provides services that can help promote your school. Our effective marketing strategies will help you increase enrollment . Find out more by calling us today.

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Campus Visit

Tours of the campus are offered throughout Summer. Guided tours are closed on weekends, state and federal holidays , and on Admissions Special events .

Reservations are required . To ensure the quality of the campus tour experience for our visitors, we are only able to accommodate reserved guests. Visitors who do not have an advanced reservation are encouraged to schedule on the next available date or take a self-guided tour.

We will be closed for guided tours on select dates, please refer to the Guided Campus Tour closures section below. Our alternative option is to attend a self-guided tour. Please refer to the section below about self-guided tours. If the date is not available online then the tour is FULL and you can either select another date or consider taking a self-guided tour that doesn’t require a reservation.

Fall tour reservations will be available mid-July. If you would like to be added to the notification list once reservations are ready, sign up here: NOTIFICATION LIST

For questions, contact the campus visit line at 808-956-7137 or e-mail [email protected] .

GUIDED CAMPUS TOUR CLOSURES

• May 27, 2024 – Memorial Day
• June 11, 2024 – Kamehameha Day
• July 4, 2024 – Independence Day
• August 16, 2024 – Statehood Day
• August 19 – 30, 2024 – Week of Welcome / First week of the semester
• September 2, 2024 – Labor Day
• November 11, 2024 – Veterans Day
• November 28, 2024 – Thanksgiving
• December 6 – 25, 2024 – End of the semester

WINTER BREAK - CAMPUS TOUR EXPERIENCE ONLY

• Time: 10:00 AM - 11:45 AM (1 hr 45 mins)
• Days Offered: Selected dates: December 18-22, 2023, December 27-29, 2023, January 3-5, 2024

SPRING BREAK - CAMPUS TOUR EXPERIENCE ONLY

• Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (1 hr 30 mins)

SATURDAY ACCEPTED STUDENT TOURS

• Days Offered: Saturday, February 24, 2024 | Saturday, April 6, 2024 | Saturday, April 20, 2024
• February 24, 2024 | Education, Undergrad Ed, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, Natural Science
• April 6, 2024 | Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, Nursing, Dental
• April 20, 2024 | College of Arts, Language, & Letters, Hawaiian Knowledge, Academic Excellence, School of Ocean & Earth Science & Technology, Social Work, Shidler College of Business, Social Science
• This campus visit experience will include an accepted student presentation, a guided walking tour of the campus and student housing, and ending the event at Hale Aloha Cafe for lunch at 12:30 PM

CAMPUS TOUR EXPERIENCE ONLY

• Days Offered: Varies

CAMPUS TOURS EXPERIENCE WITH STUDENT HOUSING TOUR

• Time: 1:00PM - 3:30 PM (2.5 hours)
• Days Offered: Tuesday - Friday

Accepted Student Tours WITH STUDENT HOUSING TOUR

• Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM (2.5 hours) *Adjusted Time on select Saturdays: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM (1.5 hours)
• Days Offered: Selected days on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, *Saturdays
• *Saturday Tour Features: Walking Campus Tour only; no Accepted Student Presentation

PROSPECTIVE STUDENT TOURS WITH STUDENT HOUSING TOUR

• Time: 1:00 PM - 2:45 PM (1 hr 45 mins)
• Days Offered: Monday - Friday

PROSPECTIVE STUDENT TOUR ONLY

• Time: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM (2.5 hours)

Campus Tour Experience

• Time: 1:30 PM - 2:45 PM (1.25 hours)
• Features: Walking Campus Tour

Self-Guided Tour

GROUP VISITS EXPERIENCE

For school or community groups with 10 or more people. Reservation forms are for visiting high school* and transfer students* interested in attending UH Mānoa in the future. Requests are first-come, first-served and based on availability. Reservations Required. For school or community groups with 10 or more people, please click the “Select” button and fill out a request below.

*For middle and elementary school group visits, please contact Adrianne Guerero at [email protected].  

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Check out our Campus Visitor's Guide - created specifically for prospective students and parents from the beginning stages of visit planning all the way through your big day on campus!

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School Tours for Students

Description

At Founding Footsteps, we take pride in creating tours that are not only educational, but also immersive and captivating for students. Our tours are thoughtfully designed to bring Philadelphia's fascinating history and rich culture to life, providing students with an interactive learning experience that goes beyond the walls of the classroom.

We believe that learning should be engaging and memorable, and our tours are crafted with this principle in mind. We strive to make history come alive for students by incorporating interactive elements and engaging storytelling throughout our tours. By doing so, we hope to instill a lifelong appreciation for history and culture in our young learners.

We understand that budget constraints can be a major concern when planning school trips. That's why we offer competitive pricing options, making our tours accessible to as many students as possible. We believe that every student should have the opportunity to learn and explore outside of the classroom, and we aim to make that possible by providing affordable and high-quality tours.

At the heart of everything we do is our passion for education and our commitment to providing students with an unforgettable experience. We take great care in creating tours that are not only informative, but also engaging and fun. We believe that learning should be an adventure, and we invite students to join us on a journey through Philadelphia's vibrant history and culture.

Why take this tour?

Taking a trolley tour of Philadelphia with your school group can offer several unique and educational benefits, including:

• Convenient transportation: Trolley tours provide a convenient and safe way for students to explore the city, without the hassle of navigating public transportation or walking long distances.
• Historical insights: Philadelphia is rich in history, and a trolley tour can offer students a unique perspective on the city's past, including its role in the American Revolution and its connection to the founding of the United States.
• Cultural experiences: Philadelphia is home to a diverse range of cultural attractions and communities, and a trolley tour can offer students a glimpse into the city's art, food, and cultural heritage.
• Accessibility: Trolley tours provide students with an accessible and inclusive way to explore the city, accommodating students with disabilities and making it easier for everyone to participate.
• Experienced guide: A knowledgeable tour guide can provide students with a more in-depth understanding of the city's history, culture, and attractions, enhancing their overall experience.

The tour would consist of a 3 hour tours (varies). We would break the school up in teams.

A) Group A: 1.5 hour long walking tour

Major historic landmarks in Old city (Ben Franklin grave, Betsy Ross House, Carpenters’ Hall, Post Office, Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and more (Admission into locations are not included, but can be added to the tour)

B) Group B: 1.5 hour long trolley tour

  Major historic landmarks: City Hall, Love Park, Museum District, the Rocky Steps and more.

Overall, a trolley tour of Philadelphia can be a fun and educational experience for students, providing them with the opportunity to learn about the city's history, culture, and attractions in a convenient and accessible way.

We are currently placing packages together now for 2023 school year. We would charge the school per student and the chaperones would be included. If you are interested in learning more, please email us at [email protected] .

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Old City Historic Walking Tour

Explore historic Philadelphia on this walking tour of the Old City District, a quick and convenient introduction for first-time visitors. See Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, Ben Franklin Post Office, Carpenters’ Hall, and more. Then wander down...

Historically Hilarious BYOB Tours of Philadelphia

An entertaining, comedic story-telling adventure through Philadelphia, covering the city's major attractions. Tours runs for 2 hours. All ages are welcome. 21+ to drink.

Tipsy Trolley Karaoke 21+ BYOB Tours of Philadelphia

Experience an adult-exclusive, entertaining, comedic storytelling adventure through Philadelphia, complete with lively karaoke sessions. Explore the city's major attractions on this 2-hour tour, enjoying drinks along the way with BYOB. Participants must be 21 years old and above to join...

Brewery/Bar & Restaurant BYOB Tour

An entertaining, 3 hour adventure through Philadelphia or surrounding areas, covering the city's breweries/bars/restaurants of your choice. You chose the destinations, and the time you spend there. Bring your playlist because we have speakers on the trolley! We will pick...

Private Wedding

Private weddings trolley tours can be a unique and special way to celebrate your wedding day. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider a trolley tour for your wedding: • Convenient transportation: Trolleys offer a convenient way...

Ghost Walking Tour

Unveil the eerie secrets and haunted history of Philadelphia on our Ghost Tour! Step into the shadows of the city's most haunted streets as we guide you through centuries of chilling tales and spine-tingling encounters. Led by expert storytellers, our...

Corporate Events

We offer fully customizable corporate tours to cater to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to kick off your corporate event with a fun and hilarious tour of Philadelphia or customize an itinerary for your team to experience...

Beer & Band Tour

A brewery tour of Philadelphia with live music on our BYOB trolley.

Private Events

All of our private tours are fully customizable. Kick off your private event with a hilarious tour of Philadelphia on a trolley stocked with local foods and beers. Call on us to escort your bachelor or bachelorette party around the...

South Jersey Brewery Tour

Visit three different local breweries on our BYOB trolley! Each stop is 30-45 minutes and your ticket includes either a pint or a 4-beer flight at each location. Light snacks are also provided on the trolley.

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The 4 Key Components Of A Preschool Tour 

There are 4 important pieces to a preschool tour .  The desired outcome of a tour is enrollment.  

You need to add, or improve upon, the following items RIGHT NOW if you want to increase preschool enrollment with your next preschool tour!

Does your preschool tour pretty much look like this?:

• Prospective parents visit your center.
• They are shown around the classrooms and given information about the program and you answer a few questions parents (might) ask
• Parents leave with a packet of information
• The waiting game begins.  You hope the family was impressed with your program and will soon send in the registration form from the packet.

If this is your tour process, you need to revamp it to include the following 4 items.  

You'll find more resources for Preschool marketing on  my preschool marketing  page

1.  Clean Up! Clean Up!  Everybody, Everywhere!   The Preschool Tour Begins OUTSIDE the Door!

(You’re welcome for that Barney ear bug by the way!  You’ll never get that song out of your head!)

It is said that Will Rogers once remarked, ‘You never get a second chance to make a first impression’.  

This is true in life.  It is true for your program!

A friend of mine is a real estate agent.  In her field, this is called “Curb Appeal”.  And it IS important.

In the real estate world, the person seeing a home makes their primary decision on the purchase based on what they see when they pull up to the property.  

If the outside is not kept up, the potential buyer presumes the inside has not been kept up either.

The same is true of families coming to your center for a preschool tour.  

They will notice everything as they pull in or walk up to your building—a decision to enroll, or not, might happen before they even step into your doors!

Go outside and walk up to your front door through the eyes of a visiting family. Consider the following:

• Is the grass freshly mowed?
• Are the wood chips fresh and loose?
• Are there any flowers planted (put some potted free-standing or hanging plants out front if you don’t have an area to plant flowers)?
• If there are flowers, are they showing signs of life or signs of neglect?
• Are the windows (or doors) displaying children’s hand-painted art work or children’s smudged fingerprints?
• Is the outside paint chipped or peeling?
• Are there cracks in the windows, windowsills or doors?
• Is there trash or debris outside?
• Are the toys in the playground clean and undamaged?

If these basics aren’t being kept up, what type of message does that give to visitors?

Look at your center as a first time visitor.  Many times we look past what we see every day, however, a new family will notice everything!

2.  Meet the Needs of the Visitor During the Preschool Tour

When a parent or family arrives, greet them warmly!  Address them by name.  Give them your full name (first and last!) and your role.  

“Hi John!  It’s great to meet you in person!  We spoke the other day.  I’m Cheryl Hatch, the Director (or Lead Teacher or Administrator) of Preschool Plan It.”  Address the child by name and introduce yourself to him or her as well!

The next step I suggest is to bring them to your office to sit and chat for a moment.  If you don’t have an office for this, have an area with a small coffee table and a few chairs already set up.  You really need to get to know this family a little before the tour.

At this time, you want to just take a few minutes to find out about them!  Offer them a clipboard with a “What To Look for Checklist” (click that link to download mine if you don’t have one!).  Let them know you realize the importance of choosing a program that best fits the needs of their family.  Encourage them to look it over and take notes once you start showing them around!

Ask them about THEIR needs.  Instead of going into your memorized “preschool tour speech”, ask them some of the following questions (and be sure that YOU take notes as well!):

• What are you looking for in a preschool program?
• What, if any, concerns or challenges do they have that you can help them with (potty training, eating habits)?
• What are their preschool goals for their child over the next year (or 2 years if you have a 2 year program)?

Once you have this information, you now know which benefits to focus on during the actual tour.

As you take them through your facility, address their needs.  For example, if their concern is potty training, show them where the bathrooms are in relation to the classroom, what type of assistance your staff gives, how your staff handles accidents, the need for bringing in multiple changes of clothing, etc.

If their concern is being a picky eater, discuss your snack policy (do you provide snack, do the parents? Discuss how you encourage children to try new foods and what you do if they do not eat).

You will want to be sure to also let your parents know what MAKES YOU STAND OUT from other programs. Let’s talk about that next!

3.  Sell Your Unique Benefits During the Preschool Tour

As you are showing families around your school and addressing their needs, goals and concerns, you will also want to highlight the unique benefits of your program.  Spend an extra minute discussing your niche.

The proper way to do this is to discuss the benefit their child will get, not the activity or program that you offer. 

Families won’t be impressed that you “have a new, state of the art playground”.  They WILL be impressed to know that their child will grow and develop their large muscles, balance and upper body strength using the playground equipment daily.   They will be impressed that their child has at least 30 minutes a day of outdoor play AND that you have a plan for gross motor play even on bad weather days.

If you are a religious program, let parents know how your support and encourage their child’s knowledge and understanding of the Bible through daily Chapel Time, Bible stories and activities and and through play in the Bible Interest Center .  

If you aren’t clear on what your unique benefits are, you can’t “sell” families on them!   Click here to read more about finding your niche-what sets you apart from other programs in your area.

Be sure to introduce the family and child to the teacher(s) in the class the child will attend.  

Special Note On This:  Please, PLEASE —take the class over for 5 minutes so that the teacher has focused time to chat with the family and the child.  (Of course, your staff should be told in advance that a tour is coming and you should cover what the staff should highlight during the tour.  But that is for another article!).

3A.  “Close the Sale”: Get the Enrollment at the End of Your Preschool Tour

Once you have finished the tour, go back to your office (or meeting place) with the family and sit down again!

At this point, my plan is to do 2 things:

• Tell them how much I enjoyed meeting them.
• Ask for the registration!

I know- that second one is tough!  You don’t want to be a “pushy salesperson”.  However, you are, in my opinion, doing the family a disservice if you do not invite them to enroll in your program at this point.

You are not giving a tour because you like talking about your program!  You are giving a tour because you love serving families and want families to join your program!

When I first gave tours years ago, I ended the first few tours thanking them for coming, giving them a packet and telling them to call if they had any questions.  What a poor ending!  I realized by doing this, I was unintentionally giving the idea that I didn’t want them in the program.  If I did, wouldn’t I offer them a spot?

If you think your program can meet this family’s needs, tell them so!

It would go something like this:

“I have really enjoyed meeting you all today and showing you the program.  I think with Cheryl’s love for art and science, she would be a great fit in Miss Tamara’s class!  I would love for your family to join our program. Would you like to have her start on the first of the month?” 

Unless you know specifically that you cannot meet the family’s needs, ask them to enroll!

WHAT?  Your program may not be the right fit for a family??

I have had three times where our program would not have been the right fit for a family.  

1.  Due to the parent’s request that the child have a one-on-one aid for extra learning  (not due to a special need).  This family wanted one on one instruction which our program does not provide.  I discussed other options in the community for their child while still letting the family know of the growth and learning that does happen in a group-based program. (The family chose a Montessori program in the end).

2.  A parent's desire was for a highly structured program, specifically to teach reading and math.  Again, I discussed the positive aspects of learning the alphabet and math skills in a print rich environment.  They chose a different program as well.

3.  Conflict with hours.  The family needed a program that was available to have their child from 8:30-12:00. Our program was 9:00-12:00 and we were not in a position to open earlier. 

Again, unless you know specifically that you cannot meet the family’s needs, ask them to register!

If they are not ready to make that decision, that’s okay.  Your process now would be:

• Give them your tour packet and encourage them to call you with any questions
• Give them a "thank you for touring" bag. 

Our packet included the following:

• Thank you letter from the director
• A reference list (of families who wrote letters for us or were willing to give their telephone numbers for phone calls from prospective families)
• A recent newsletter from the class the child would be placed in 
• A program information page that includes fee schedule, ratios, hours, philosophy of education
• A registration form

This is NOT your parent handbook!  This is NOT the time to give them all of your program policies and procedures!

The Thank You Bag

I did not always do this, but once I added it, it was a great hit!  

You can purchase these in bulk at   Amazon .  Our Thank You bag included

• tote bag (with the program name painted on it or ironed onto it!) filled with:
• Children’s book
• Clear report covers
• Dry-erase (low-odor) markers
• Magnetic business card
• A few pre-writing practice papers with instructions (I made these!)

Each of these items had our name or label in or on them!  

Giving them a gift bag is an opportunity to:

• Provide families with a reminder of their visit
• Provide marketing materials they can give to friends looking for preschool
• Provide an activity that supports our program (literacy, fine-motor development).
• And, well, it’s just a nice touch!

3B.  Nurture “Closing the Sale”: by Following Up AFTER the Preschool Tour

If the family does not enroll at the end of the tour, you need to follow up with them!

Your tour was scheduled so you have their telephone number, email address or mailing address (preferably all three!).  

If you have their email or mailing address, follow up with them no later than 48 hours after the tour.  Thank them again for coming and reiterate that you would love to have them join your program.

Include an article about an issue, concern or challenge they discussed with you (such as an article about potty training or picky eaters).  

Encourage them to contact you (give your telephone number and your email address) any time with questions they may have.

You can also let them know how many spots are left in the class their child will be in (please do NOT tell them “There is only one spot left….enroll today!” if it is not true.  That really bugs me!  If it IS true, tell them that but also offer to hold that spot for them until 5:00 pm on ________.  

Follow up more!

I have learned more about marketing over the past few years.  There are many things you can put into place so that follow-up is automatic, especially with email!  However, it would work with regular mail as well!  

You can set up what is called an auto responder through an email service or mail out follow-ups.  Either way, prospective families will be receiving regular information from your program.

For email, you would schedule helpful information to go out once a week (after the 48 hour follow-up).

For regular mail, you would mail this helpful information once a week (I pre-addressed envelopes after a tour and put the date I wanted to mail the information in the area where the stamp will be placed!).

When they are ready to enroll, you will be first in mind for them!  I will talk more about auto responders in another article in the future.

Preschool Tour Conclusion

If you have been the person to give the preschool tour to prospective families, you most likely have specific items and topics you like to cover with families.  

Be sure to review this list to ensure that you are covering the important pieces discussed, therefore turning a majority of your preschool tours into enrollments!  

If you are new to giving tours, you will need to set up your steps now to include this information.

If any staff members also give tours, be sure you all meet together to discuss these 4 key components of preschool tour giving!

Other articles you may be interested in:

Go to the Preschool Director Home Page

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Harvard visitor center tours.

All tours are 45 to 60 minutes long. Registration is required in advance for both in-person and virtual tours. Weekly tour registration will be available every Friday. You can download the Visit Harvard mobile app on iOS and Android devices. During business hours you may purchase a Self-Guided Tour Map for $3 available in multiple languages.

For information about Harvard College Admissions tours for prospective students, visit their website .

Official Historical Tour of Harvard

The free, student-led public walking tour through Harvard Yard provides a history of the University, general information, and a unique view on the students’ individual experience. 

Register for the in-person tour

Visit Harvard mobile app

Explore Harvard with our free mobile app, featuring a collection of self-guided walking tours. Whichever tour you decide to embark on, you’ll be sure to learn something new.

Download the app on  iOS  and  Android devices.

Historical Tour of Harvard

Learn the history behind well-known spots across Harvard’s campus! Each stop highlights iconic buildings, traditions, alumni, and much more.

Harvard Public Art & Culture Tour: Allston

Explore vibrant public art in Allston! You’ll encounter can’t-miss installations along Western Avenue and learn the stories behind them and their artists.

Harvard Public Art & Culture Tour: Cambridge

Discover a new side to our campus through an art-filled adventure! Explore outdoor art, famous architecture, renowned cultural institutions, and more.

Discover more Harvard tours

From nature walks to art galleries, these tour offerings include virtual options, in-person experiences, student and staff-led excursions, and more.

Tour spotlight

Harvard and the Legacy of Slavery

The Harvard and the Legacy of Slavery Walking Tour Experience explores Harvard University’s entanglements with the institution of slavery through a 10-stop tour around Harvard’s campus.

Learn more about the tour

Prospective students

Harvard College In-Person Campus Visit Options: in-person, student-led

Harvard College Virtual Tour Options: virtual

SEAS Tours Options: in-person, student-led

Harvard Business School Options: in-person, virtual, student-led, mobile

Harvard Law School Virtual Tour Video Options: virtual

Arts and culture

Harvard and the Legacy of Slavery Options: mobile

Harvard Art Museums: Student Guided Tours Options: in-person, student-led

Harvard Forest Field Trips & Tours Options: virtual, in-person, staff-led, self-guided

Arnold Arboretum: All Tours Options: in-person, virtual, staff-led, self-guided

Museums and libraries

Peabody Museum: All Tours Options: in-person, virtual, self-guided, staff-led

Houghton & Widener In-Person Tours Options: in-person, staff-led

Widener 360-Degree Virtual Tour Options: virtual, self-guided

Houghton Library Virtual Tour Options: virtual

Harvard Art Museums: Gallery Tours Options: in-person, self-guided, staff-led

Harvard Museums of Science & Culture: Virtual Tours Options: virtual, self-guided

Frequently asked questions

General tour information.

The Harvard University Visitor Center offers several different types of tours. For our in person tour offerings on campus, we provide the Official Historical Tour of Harvard. All tours are provided to the public for free and to private groups for a fee. Our tours typically run 45-60 minutes.

To view the schedule and register for our free public tours (virtual and in person), please visit our Eventbrite page . To request a virtual or in person private tour, visit this link .

We also offer a free self-guided historical tour through the Visit Harvard mobile app, which you can download on iOS and Android devices. You can take this self-guided tour on campus or from the comfort of your own home.

Information About Free In Person Tours

The in person Historical Tour of Harvard explores Harvard Yard. Tours depart from the Visitor Center which is located at the front desk in the Smith Campus Center. Our address is 1350 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138.

Registration for our in person tours must be made in advance. Registration is made available starting the Friday before your tour week. Parties of up to 14 persons can register for a free in person tour. Parties of 15-60 are encouraged to submit a request for a private tour .

Registered tour goers should arrive at the Visitor Center at least 15 minutes before your tour to check-in. Tours depart from the Smith Campus Center and end in Harvard Yard.

Information About the Visit Harvard Mobile App

Visit Harvard is a free mobile app by the Harvard Visitor Center that features a collection of self-guided tours centered around the Harvard University experience. The Visit Harvard mobile app can be downloaded by anyone with a smartphone, tablet, or desktop, to be enjoyed from wherever you might be visiting, whether it’s in-person at Harvard or from the comfort of your own home.

What tours are being offered in the mobile app? Currently on the app, visitors can take a mobile version of our popular in-person and virtual tour, the Historical Tour of Harvard.

How long is the mobile tour? This self-guided tour takes place across 14 mapped stops through Harvard’s campus. At a standard walking pace, it will take between 45-60 minutes to complete the 1 mile long tour.

Can I take the mobile tour in-person or virtually? The mobile tour is designed to be accessed in-person on Harvard University’s campus, starting at the Harvard Visitor Center, located at the Smith Campus Center in Harvard Square (1350 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA). It can also be viewed from the comfort of your own home. Simply download Visit Harvard in the app store, select the Historical Tour of Harvard, and begin your journey!

Where can I download the Visit Harvard mobile app? You can download the Visit Harvard mobile app on the Apple App Store and Google Play . There is also a desktop version of the app you can access here .

Learn More About the Harvard College Admissions Process

For more information about Harvard College Admissions, please visit their official website . Their contact information can be found here .

Campus Tours

Explore UCLA’s beautiful campus, tradition of academic excellence, vibrant student body and vast array of resources and opportunities.

We offer on-campus tours and online webinars hosted by UCLA students. 

A tour narrated by current UCLA student tour guides is offered online and on-campus. These tours are designed for students in 9th grade and above.

Spanish Language Tour

A tour narrated in Spanish by current UCLA student tour guides is offered online and on-campus.

Housing Tours

We are not able to offer on-campus housing tours at this time. 

Visit a Class

We are not able to offer the Lecture Experience at this time.

Self-Guided Tour

If you find yourself on campus, you can still have a great experience with a self-guided tour.

Cub Tours (K–8th Grade)

Cub tours are for groups of students in kindergarten all the way up to 8th grade. 

Virtual Tours

Virtual tours are immersive experiences complete with panoramic photos, videos and in-depth audio narration.

Virtual Campus Tour

Virtual Housing Tour

Professional schools tours.

The following schools provide their own information sessions and tours, highlighting specific programs, facilities and opportunities.

• School of the Arts and Architecture
• Samueli School of Engineering
• Herb Alpert School of Music
• School of Nursing
• Luskin School of Public Affairs
• School of Theater, Film & Television
• Graduate Student Tours

Other Tours

• Library virtual tours
• Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden self-guided tour
• Medical center virtual tours

Tour Questions

Campus tours (9th grade and over).

(310) 825-8764

[email protected]

(323) 285-9120

[email protected]

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Visit McGeorge School of Law

The McGeorge School of Law community appreciates your continued interest in our law school. We welcome you to #ExperienceMcGeorge before you apply by meeting with an admissions counselor or visiting campus to sit in on a class or take a campus tour. 

After two years, we are once again able to host visitors in the classroom. Select first-year daytime and evening classes are available for class visits various times of the week, Mondays through Thursdays, excluding holidays. Class visits must be scheduled at least 2 days in advance, and we must receive approval from the professor to ensure the material is appropriate for prospective JD students. To schedule a class visit, call 916.739.7105 or email [email protected] . If you cannot make it to campus, we do have video clips of select first-year classes available to individuals interested in viewing our in-class experience. These recorded classes can be viewed on our YouTube channel .

The JD Admissions Office offers in-person campus tours to prospective JD students. Campus tours are available to schedule Mondays through Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays. To schedule a campus tour, call 916.739.7105 or email [email protected] . If you are on campus and would like to take a self-guided tour, stop by the JD Admissions Office, and scan the Self-Guided Tour QR code on the front door of our office in the breezeway off Fifth Avenue.

Counseling is still available by appointment via Zoom or telephone. For further information and to schedule call 916.739.7105 or email us at [email protected] . You may also schedule a zoom appointment with someone from the JD Admissions team by visiting our Come Meet Us page.

McGeorge Admissions Email | 916.739.7105

PGA TOUR Americas Q-School notebook: Preview notables looking to extend their season

University of South Florida alum Jimmy Jones looks to extend his season after a best finish of T12 at the Bupa Championship at Tulum. (Jan Hetfleisch/Getty Images)

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While those 60 players can start booking their travel to Canada for the North America Swing, beginning with The Beachlands Victoria Open presented by Times Colonist contested from June 20-23, other players in search of membership will try to earn status at PGA TOUR Americas Q-School.

Q-School will be contested across six sites – Ocala, Florida (May 21-24), Dothan, Alabama (May 21-24), Garland, Texas (May 28-31), Litchfield Park, Arizona (May 28-31), San Jacinto, California (June 4-7) and Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada (June 11-14). The first nine finishers from each site will earn exempt membership for the North America Swing, while finishers 10-25 and ties will earn conditional membership. If there are ties for the ninth spot after the final round of play, a playoff will determine which players earn exempt membership. In total, 54 players will earn exempt status for the North America Swing.

The first two PGA TOUR Americas Q-Schools will begin on Tuesday, May 21 in Ocala, Florida, and Dothan, Alabama. Here’s a capsule look at notables who are set to compete at each of the six Q-School sites.

Note: This page will be updated prior to the start of each Q-School.

Site:  Garland, TX

Course: Firewheel at Garland Bridges

Leaderboard

Notables: Tommy Kuhl made the cut in four of his six starts during the Latin America Swing, highlighted by a T24 finish at the 69th ECP Brazil Open… Naucalpan, Mexico-native Luis Carrera will look to earn status for the North America Swing after making two appearances in Segment I. The 24-year-old’s best showing came at the Totalplay Championship at Atlas Country Club, where he finished T26... Joel Thelen will look to regain status for the remainder of the season, as the No. 1 finisher in the 2023 Dev Series made two cuts in five starts during the Latin America Swing… James Hart du Preez will look to gain status on PGA TOUR Americas after previously playing on the Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour. The 6’9” South African leads the Sunshine Tour in driving distance with a 373-yard average, and made his PGA TOUR debut at the American Express in 2022… Quinn Riley will compete in Texas, as the top finisher in the 2023 APGA Lexus Cup standings looks to regain status after two made cuts during the Latin America Swing.

Site: Litchfield Park, Arizona

Course: The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa – Gold Course

Notables: Reid Davenport made the cut in three of his six starts, highlighted by a T8 finish at the 69th ECP Brazil Open to finish 61st in the Fortinet Cup for the Latin America Swing… The Vanderbilt University alum finished 13th in the 2023 PGA TOUR University Ranking and will attempt to secure exempt status to the North America Swing this week in Arizona… Jason Hong finished the Latin America Swing with three consecutive made cuts. Hong claimed his first professional victory in Colombia one week prior to the Inter Rapídisimo Golf Championship at the Fourth Stop of the KIA Colombian Professional Tour presented by Monteazul Golf Club… Luke Schniederjans closed the Latin America Swing with two top 25s in his last three events. The Georgia Tech alum had his best showing of the season at the Inter Rapídisimo Golf Championship, where he finished T23… Genki Okada will also try to secure membership for the North America Swing, as he claimed his best finish of Segment I at the Inter Rapídisimo Golf Championship, where he finished T16… Brendan MacDougall started all six events in the Latin America Swing and closed with three made cuts in a row. The Calgary, Canada, native had his best showing at the KIA Open with a T32 finish.

Site: Ocala, Florida

Course: Country Club of Ocala

Notables: Jimmy Jones made the cut in four of his six starts during the Latin America Swing. The University of South Florida alum had his best showing of the season at the Bupa Championship at Tulum, where he finished T12 … Abel Gallegos will also try to secure membership for the summer. Gallegos finished T16 at the Inter Rapídisimo Golf Championship, his lone start of the Latin America Swing. Gallegos won the 2020 Latin America Amateur Championship, becoming the first Argentinian to claim the title … Flint Bekkers is in the field in Ocala looking to extend his season. Bekkers started all six events in the Latin Swing, with his best result coming at the KIA Open, where he finished T19 … Isidro Benitez is also in the hunt to earn more starts after finishing outside of the top 60. Benitez has made eight starts in 2024 across the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA TOUR Americas. The Puebla, Mexico native finished T11 at the Panama Championship in February … Vince India , who has made 176 starts on the Korn Ferry Tour, will attempt a comeback to professional golf at Q-School.

Site: Dothan, Alabama

Course: Robert Trent Jones Golf Trails at Highland Oaks – Highlands/Marshwood

Notables: Edmonton native and Lipscomb University alum Will Holan is in the field in Alabama. Holan became the first individual conference champion from Lipscomb since 2018 and helped lead the Bison to the first Atlantic Sun Conference Championship in program history … Alejandro Madariaga is teeing it up after making four starts during the Latin America Swing … Austen Christensen finished T27 at the 69 th ECP Brazil Open after Monday Qualifying … Travis Vick was the low-amateur at the 2022 U.S. Open. Vick finished No. 12 in the 2023 PGA TOUR University ranking after playing collegiately at the University of Texas.

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Ellen DeGeneres announced her final stand-up tour. Here are all the details

Ellen DeGeneres is taking one final bow.

The comedian and longtime host of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” has announced a farewell tour, “Ellen’s Last Stand... Up.”

The summer tour will consist of 27 shows across North America, kicking off June 19 in San Diego, California. Tour stops also include previously announced dates that are already sold out.

“Ellen’s Last Stand... Up” is described as “the last opportunity for fans to witness a comedy legend in her final curtain call,” according to Live Nation.

The news comes weeks after DeGeneres revealed that she would be starring in an hourlong comedy special on Netflix set for later this year.

At the time, she wrote on Instagram, “Here we go! To answer the questions everyone is asking me — Yes, I’m going to talk about it. Yes this is my last special. Yes, Portia really is that pretty in real life.”

Find out how you can catch Ellen DeGeneres on tour below:

When are tickets for Ellen DeGeneres' final tour on sale?

Tickets for "Ellen's Last Stand... Up" will go on sale starting with an artist presale on Thursday, May 30. General sale will take place Friday, May 31, at 10 a.m. local time at  LiveNation.com . 

What are Ellen DeGeneres' tour dates?

DeGeneres' farewell stand-up tour will kick off June 19 in San Diego, California, before wrapping Aug. 17 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The tour consists of 27 dates, with some previously announced shows that are already sold out.

Previously announced:

June 19: San Diego, CA — Balboa Theatre — SOLD OUT

June 20: San Diego, CA — Balboa Theatre

June 23: Spokane, WA — The Fox — SOLD OUT

June 24: Spokane, WA — The Fox — SOLD OUT

June 25: Portland, OR — Newmark Theatre — SOLD OUT

June 26: Portland, OR — Newmark Theatre — SOLD OUT

June 28: Eugene, OR — Hult Center for the Performing Arts — SOLD OUT

June 30: Santa Rosa, CA — Luther Burbank Center for the Arts — SOLD OUT

July 1: Santa Rosa, CA — Luther Burbank Center for the Arts — SOLD OUT

July 2: Santa Rosa, CA — Luther Burbank Center for the Arts

July 8: Denver, CO — Paramount Theatre 

July 10: Dallas, TX — Music Hall at Fair Park

July 12: San Antonio, TX — Majestic Theatre 

July 13: Austin, TX — ACL Live — Moody Theater

July 20: San Francisco, CA — The Masonic

July 22: Seattle, WA — Benaroya Hall

July 29: Boston, MA — Boch Center Wang Theatre

July 30: Washington, DC — DAR Constitution Hall

July 31: Philadelphia, PA — Academy of Music

Aug. 1: New York, NY — Radio City Music Hall

Aug. 5: Toronto, ON — Meridian Hall

Aug, 7: Durham, NC — DPAC

Aug. 8: Charlotte, NC — Ovens Auditorium 

Aug. 10: Chicago, IL — Chicago Theatre

Aug. 13: Nashville, TN — Ryman Auditorium 

Aug. 16: Minneapolis, MN — Orpheum Theatre — SPECIAL TAPING

Aug. 17: Minneapolis, MN — Orpheum Theatre — SPECIAL TAPING

Liz Calvario is a Los Angeles-based reporter and editor for TODAY.com who covers entertainment, pop culture and trending news.

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Entering with high expectations, Grayson Murray left his mark on NC high school golf

The golf community was stunned to learn of the death of PGA Tour player Grayson Murray on Saturday.

Murray, 30, died on Saturday morning, according to a statement from PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, one day after withdrawing from the Charles Schwab Challenge.

Earlier this year, Murray won the Sony Open in Hawaii, but the mark Murray leaves on the game of golf extends to much earlier in his life.

A member of the Class of 2012 at Leesville Road High School, it was clear when Murray was a freshman he would be a force on the golf course. Going into high school, Murray had won three straight Callaway Junior World Championships. He was ranked No. 1 in his age group.

“Winning a Junior World Championship once is quite an achievement, but to do it three consecutive years puts him in another league," Megan Mahoney told HighSchoolOT partner VYPE in 2009. Mahoney was the executive director of the San Diego Junior Golf Association, which holds the championship event.

Winning three straight world championships was a feat that one of Murray's idols had accomplished — Tiger Woods. On Murray's 15th birthday, Woods wrote him a letter and told him to "keep up the good work."

Murray said at the time that he learned a lot about how to approach the game by watching Woods.

"I get nervous, but in a good way ... if you don't get nervous, it shows you don't care," Murray said. "If I am down, I know that as long as there are still holes to play on the course, there’s still a chance of winning."

In 2010, as a sophomore at Leesville Road, Murray won the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A state championship . He shot a 4-under par 68 in the second and final round of the tournament at Pinehurst No. 8 to win the championship after entering the second day tied for the lead.

Murray finished the state championship tournament with a two-day combined score of 138.

Soon after winning the state title and at the age of 16, Murray shot a 5-under par 66 in the second round of the Rex Hospital Open, becoming the second youngest player to make the cut at a Nationwide Tour event . The only player who made the cut younger? Jordan Spieth.

The experience proved to be helpful in the future for Murray.

"I was obviously nervous. I didn't have many expectations going into the week ... I was nervous but the people said I had the biggest gallery out there, so that was cool," Murray said in an interview with 99.9 FM The Fan after the event. "Guys were helping me out with good advice ... Maybe a 16-year-old like me gets a little hot if I make a bogey but those guys are very calm with themselves. They do it for a living and they do it each week, so they're pros at it."

Murray did not win another NCHSAA state title, though he came close . After high school, he spent time at Wake Forest University, East Carolina University, and Arizona State University.

In 2016, he returned to the Rex Hospital Open where he finished in the top 10 of the event. He finished in the top 10 at the BMW Charity Pro-Am after that, and that sparked his professional career. He finished second on the Korn Ferry Tour money list and earned full status on the PGA Tour for the 2016-2017 season.

At the age of 23, Murray won the 2017 Barbasol Championship, posting a score of 68 in the final round. He finished 66th in the FedEx Cup that season.

Last year, Murray went back to the Korn Ferry Tour where he won two tournaments and finished fourth on the points list to get back on the PGA Tour this season. That led to his win in Hawaii earlier this year.

In his 30 years, Murray established himself as one of the best golfers to come out of North Carolina. His name will forever live in the record books of North Carolina high school sports.

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19-year-old Pennsylvania realtor goes viral for speedy house tours

GREENCASTLE, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- For anyone who's ever been in the market for a new home, you know the process of touring houses can be exhausting and overwhelming.

Well, that's usually the case unless Trenton Miller of Greencastle, Pennsylvania is your realtor.

The 19-year-old got into real estate about a year ago and has been making waves. Action News' Sarah Bloomquist spoke with the teen about his viral speed tours.

He said he kept seeing boring tour videos online and on social media apps like TikTok, so he decided to switch it up.

Miller has used the 'speedy' approach to his tour videos, each sprinkled with some humor.

Some have said his style is very Gen X.

Miller agreed, saying, "Some realtors take everything too seriously and I believe people are wanting a change."

He also said being a realtor at just 19 years old can be difficult. People are skeptical of his age, but he says he's determined to do the work.

Since his speed tours started, he says business has exploded with millions of views converting clicks into clients.

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The rise of Dereck Lively II: From late-blooming high school star to Mavericks rookie revelation

Dereck lively ii has enjoyed an nba playoffs breakthrough while playing with a heavy heart; those who know him best are watching his rise with pride.

When the buzzer sounded at the end of Game 6 of the Western Conference second round , Dereck Lively II was hailed a hero. The 7-foot rookie was thick in Dallas' celebration of advancing to the Western Conference finals, largely due to his efforts. He posted a game-high plus-minus with the Mavericks outscoring the Thunder by 26 points when Lively was on the floor. His dunks, rebounds, and rim protection were vital in securing a one-point victory over the No. 1 seed. 

It was the culmination of everything Lively had experienced in his life playing out on the biggest stage.

"If you want to play with anybody, you want to play with Dereck," Duke coach Jon Scheyer told CBS Sports this week. "He's carved out his own path to how he was going to do it. That's what I'm most proud of." 

Nearly three years ago, Lively had climbed his way to becoming a top recruit in the 2022 class, at times holding the No. 1 spot. While being the top player in a class is an honor, it also comes with scrutiny and an intense microscope. In Lively's case, his journey to becoming the top-ranked recruit was a blend of circumstance and development.

Following his seventh-grade season, Lively joined the Team Final AAU program as a talented, albeit green, prospect. At the time, Team Final boasted three talented and proven players: future lottery pick Jalen Duren , Jameel Brown, and Justice Williams.

"He came to tryouts with his mom, and it was an eye-opening experience for him," said Team Final director Rob Brown. "He was from just outside of State College [Pennsylvania], his mom obviously worked at Penn State, and he had never seen players like Jalen Duren or even Jameel Brown, who was a USA kid at the time, or Justice Williams in the gym. It was eye-opening for him but it was something that he needed."

Lively was talented, just like Duren. But unlike the chiseled-for-his-age Duren, Lively needed time to grow into his own. The gangly Lively was on the path to bloom late.

"When Duren came to us in seventh grade, he was already physically gifted like somebody four or five years older than him," Brown said. "For him, it was easy physically and athletically to impose his size on people. With Dereck, he was not as developed, but you could still see, 'Wow, this kid is going to be really, really good.' He is going to be different than Jalen, but he is going to be good in his own way."

When Lively entered high school at Westtown School in Chester, PA, he was under the radar due to both injuries and then the COVID-19 pandemic. This gave him the opportunity to expand his game and burst onto the national scene during his junior season.

Dereck's mother, Katherine Drysdale, was a Penn State basketball standout who scored over 1,200 points and stood 6-foot-4. His father, Derek Sr., was tall, too. 

"You knew he was going to continue to grow, but you didn't know he was going to be 7-foot-1," Brown said. "His game developed at his pace."

Towards the end of his junior season, Lively began to turn heads and made a large leap up the 247Sports rankings from the top 50 up into the top 25. The conversations began that he might climb into the top 5 of the recruiting rankings -- he just needed time to prove it. Playing with Duren and heralded recruit Emoni Bates , his Team Final tore through the Nike EYBL on their way to winning a Peach Jam title, the most prestigious championship on the shoe circuit series. During that run, Lively proved to be an elite defender, a high-level rim protector, a lob catcher, and someone with the potential to stretch the floor (an element we have not seen yet at the higher levels). 

Everything he brought to the floor impacted winning, and it was a big reason why Duke head coach Jon Scheyer put all his efforts into landing the big man as the jewel of what would be his first signing class. Lively continued his rise up to the top of the class despite not being your prototypical star recruit who could go out and get 30 on any given night. However, due to reclassifications between Duren, Bates, and Shaedon Sharpe , Lively rose near the top of the rankings and finished No. 2 in 247Sports' rankings for the 2022 class. Lively was the headliner of a  2022 signing class that included five five-star prospects. 

Along with the lofty expectations came another setback when Lively injured his foot at the start of Duke's 2022-23 season. The injury lingered and affected Lively's play (from Nov. 30 to Jan. 28, only once did Lively crack over 20 minutes per game). 

"When you get injured to start the year as a freshman, you're going through growing pains in real time during the season," Scheyer said. "Usually, you go through them during the preseason, and so I thought he showed incredible mental toughness by just sticking with it, learning what it takes at that level, and obviously preparing him for the following year."

Lively buckled down with then-assistant Amile Jefferson, a former Duke big man himself, to create daily habits in getting back to form. Jefferson is now an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics . 

"He had an amazing workout routine that he developed with Amile," Scheyer said. "He had an offensive routine and a defensive routine that he would do. He was consistent. We had multiple meetings where he just doubled down on what he needed to do, and he didn't make any excuses. That's what you love about him, and that's why he got better."

Most of Lively's numbers during one year in Durham were a mixed bag. He averaged just 5.2 points and 5.4 rebounds a game, but he also blocked 82 shots, fifth most nationally and 10th-most in a Duke single season. Lively was named to the 2023 All-ACC Tournament Team, ACC All-Defensive Team, and ACC All-Freshman Team.

"What Dereck brings to the table is different than anybody else," Scheyer said. "He's not a guy you throw the ball to to go create shots, but he was the most impactful defensive player in the country by the end of the season."

The Mavs selected Lively No. 12 in the 2023 NBA Draft (he'd go much higher in a redraft ). He's one of five former five-star recruits on Dallas' roster, which includes former Duke point guard Kyrie Irving , too. The Mavericks are benefiting from Lively's intangibles. 

Lively struggled in both Game 1 and Game 2 against Oklahoma City, but he doubled down and found a way to change the course of the series and head to the Western Conference finals.

"We wouldn't win this series without (Lively)," Mavs star Luka Doncic said. "For a rookie not being scared, it's insane how he plays ... The way he impacts the game is just amazing." 

Lively's father died at a young age. His mother, Kathy Drysdale, died of cancer just over a month ago on April 12 after a decades-long battle. The tests Lively faces on the court -- and Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert will be quite the test Wednesday night in Minneapolis -- is nothing compared to what he's gone threw off it. 

"He has a big personality, and you're seeing parts of his dad come out where he is loud, in a very positive way," Brown said. "When he catches a lob, he is screaming at the crowd. It's infectious. It's almost momentum-changing plays that he makes. 

"When his mom got cancer, it threw it into a different place. Where he used to play for inspiration -- his mom was his inspiration because she fought so hard to get past cancer -- now he is playing with a purpose."

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