<p>Oberlin admissions officers that I’ve heard say they care a lot about the “Why Oberlin” essay. It’s my impression that they want to be sure an applicant understands how they perceive they’d fit in or contribute to the college, appreciates the resources offered, will be happy in that part of the country and so on. </p>
<p>I don’t think that means you shouldn’t apply if you can’t visit. Visits are recommended, not required. But since you were planning to visit anyway, definitely schedule your visit before you write the application essays, to make stronger essays. </p>
<p>WIthout a visit, I’d say it’s worth some thorough web-based research and serious reflection to express “Why Oberlin” for you, in terms of how their academic offerings match your interests, how you might flourish there. Avoid broad platitudes such as, “it provides an excellent education.” Go beyond the website and into course catalogues; read articles from their online bulletins. Also dial up the alumni magazine for some interesting perspectives on what Oberlin graduates do afterwards. </p>
<p>Research can also be done by writing to admissions officers to ask about various things, are helpful if not overdone or irritating. As well, if there are h.s. graduates from your community who attend there now, try to contact them.</p>
<p>If financial resources are of issue, Oberlin has a fly-in weekend, so check if you;re eligible. I wish I knew if that’s determined by URM status or economic profile, but I suspect it’s URM status since the financial aid packages are made up later than the visiting for that admission year. If someone knows that answer, please post it.</p>