Oct. 1, 2007

Simpson launched a new Web site geared toward prospective students, particularly out-of-state students, during Homecoming weekend.

The multi-media site, www.simpsonexperience.com, allows students to understand what life is like at Simpson before they ever step foot on campus.

The site emphasizes visual images and sound, which appeal to high school students who have grown up with the Internet. The site is different than most colleges’ virtual tours because of its focus on students and faculty rather than buildings on campus.

“The site communicates the things you see once you get on campus,” said Web Architect Missy DeYoung. “It’s about people and seeing the students experiencing things hands-on.”

According to Beth Peck, assistant director of admissions, the site will be invaluable during the recruiting process.

“Prospective students are so Web savvy and have high expectations for any college they are considering,” said Peck. “It’s a fiercely competitive market and the Simpson Experience site is just one more way to reach them and tell the Simpson story in a medium they can relate to.”

DeYoung called the site “an organic experience” because the site’s unique content management system will allow it to continually evolve as campus changes and events occur. The Web site also comes with an extensive, accessible transcript to help people with disabilities access the site.

The Web site was born out of an idea DeYoung had after attending a conference. The college partnered with cdeVision, a technology and design firm in Massachusetts, who designed the framework for the site. DeYoung worked with senior Melanie Carlson, an undergraduate assistant in the Office of Marketing and Public Relations, and Senior Writer Danette Griffith to produce content for the site.