Visiting Campus: What Families Can Expect

At Elgin Community College (ECC), seeing is believing. Visiting ECC is one of the best ways to experience what it’s like to be a student and step into the daily rhythm of college life. Campus tours give prospective students and their families a chance to learn about academic programs and resources, explore the modern facilities, get a feel for the campus culture, and picture themselves as part of the ECC community.

“When students visit campus, they can see how ECC can be a personal fit for them. They can experience the energy we have here,” says Lauren Nehlsen, PhD, Associate Dean, Recruitment and Outreach Services and Center for Global Engagement. “They’re going to feel welcomed. They’re going to feel a sense of belonging. Everyone who works at ECC wants students to succeed. That’s at the center of everything that we do.”

Families often can interact with faculty or current students who share their experiences. They also can meet admissions staff, who answer questions and provide guidance.

“Visiting ECC gives students and families the opportunity to meet the people who make the community so special,” Nehlsen says. “These personal connections turn information into insight and help students better understand how ECC aligns with their academic and personal goals.”

ECC welcomes students and families to campus through a variety of events, in person and online:

Scheduled Campus Tours
In-person campus tours are held every other Wednesday at 4 pm and last 30 to 45 minutes. Led by a student ambassador or admissions staff member, these group tours give visitors an overview of campus spaces, academic programs, and student support services and resources. Registration is required.

Walk-In Tours
While advance notice is preferred, admissions staff can usually accommodate walk-in visitors for one-on-one tours, depending on staff availability. During these personalized tours, a recruitment coordinator can discuss the application and enrollment process. Spanish tours also are offered, based on availability.

Enrolling 101
This session, held virtually, covers the ECC enrollment journey — applying for admission, placement testing, financial aid, new student orientation, academic advising, registration, and student life. It’s designed for students who are considering applying or are in the process of enrolling. Enrolling 101 is held throughout the academic year, with Spanish-speaking options offered quarterly.

Virtual Tour
Students can explore campus with ECC’s interactive map and virtual tour. Click on the map to hop between buildings — from the Nursing Lab in Building A to the HVAC Lab in Building O. It’s a great way to get oriented or figure out how to get from class to class.

Adult Learner Information Nights
Adult learners, typically age 25 and older, may balance work, family, and other responsibilities as they enter or return to college. Held three times a year — in April, July, and November — Adult Learner Information Nights provide tailored information about academic programs, career advancement, and student support. 

Program Information Sessions
For information on specific academic offerings, ECC hosts both virtual and in-person program information sessions. Many health professions and career technical education programs offer these sessions. There are also recorded presentations for programs such as cybersecurity, music, legal and paralegal, and education.

High School Group Visits
High schools in District 509 can bring students to campus for specialized visits on select Thursdays and Fridays during fall and spring semesters. High school group visits include presentations on college and career readiness, as well as the accessibility and affordability of an ECC education. Groups tour academic departments — such as culinary arts, dental assisting, or career technology education programs — and hear from faculty and staff. Spanish presentations are available upon request.

Middle School Fridays
Offered on select weeks during the academic year, Middle School Fridays give younger students a preview of college life. These visits highlight the value of higher education, include campus tours, and feature the opportunity to hear from current ECC students.

No matter which visit format they choose, prospective students can see what makes ECC a welcoming, vibrant, and student-centered place to learn and grow.