Case Study: Columbia University – Opening Doors to Possibility

Columbia University’s Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (IEOR) Department is recognized for its exceptional commitment to addressing critical global challenges.

The department trains future leaders in designing efficient systems, optimizing processes, and developing data-driven strategies that have real-world impact.

For prospective students, exploring the department is about more than just reviewing curricula; it’s about understanding how the program will shape their future career and research.

Engaging Prospective Students in a Virtual World

Columbia's IEOR team faced a significant challenge: how do you translate the campus experience into a virtual format that truly reflects the energy, dynamism, and breadth of the program?

Networking Lounge

Previous efforts with webinars and static presentations didn’t allow for enough interaction or the type of organic engagement prospective students needed to make informed decisions.

Rather than creating a traditional, one-way session, the department wanted to create an environment where prospective students could actively engage with different elements of the program.

Gatherly’s Solution

A Digital Space That Mirrors the Campus Experience: Gatherly’s interactive platform allowed Columbia’s IEOR department to create a unique virtual open house.

The space was designed with specific, customizable zones for different interests. One zone featured live discussions with faculty members on the core curriculum, another zone hosted real-time Q&A sessions with current students, while yet another offered a virtual meet-up with the admissions team for application guidance.

Building Connections and Boosting Engagement

The flexible nature of Gatherly's platform meant that attendees could freely explore content and conversations, ensuring that no one was passive in the experience.

They could jump into discussions with faculty, learn about specific projects in a more personal setting, or even hear from alumni about their careers post-graduation.

"These real-time, face-to-face conversations were what made the event truly impactful."

The Result

This open-house approach helped bridge the gap between the digital format and the deeply relational environment Columbia University sought to provide, bringing real connection to the forefront of the experience.