6 Ways to Maximize Your Open House Experience
6 Ways to Maximize Your Open House Experience
Attending college open houses can be an exciting and crucial part of your college search. It's an event where you can experience up close everything that the university has to offer, from academic programs and resources to campus culture and student organizations. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree is a big academic commitment that will have a significant impact on your life in the next four years and after graduation. So, you’ll want to make sure that you’re choosing a college that is right for you, and one of the best ways to help you do that is to attend an open house event.
6 Ways to Maximize Your Open House Experience
If you’re still on the fence about what you want out of your college experience, attending an open house event can be the determining factor in your selection process. Stepping foot on campus and learning about how the school aligns with your goals will help you make that important decision. In this blog, we’ll go over six strategies that will ensure a rewarding and informative open house experience.
1. Research beforehand
Before making your way to the campus courtyard, familiarize yourself with the school’s website and departments. Researching the schools you are interested in before attending an open house will help you know what questions to ask during your visit. Figure out if the school offers the majors and minors you want to study or the research opportunities you want to pursue, and come up with a list of questions to ask faculty to determine how the programs will help you reach your academic and career goals.
Without acquiring important background information on the school you’re visiting, you won’t know what to look for or what to ask. By researching beforehand, you’ll also be able to plan your schedule during the event. Check to see what the agenda is for the open house and plan what workshops and information sessions you want to attend. By being prepared, you’ll enter the open house with a clear vision of what you’re seeking in a college.
2. Engage with faculty and staff
Don't be afraid to approach professors and admissions staff during the open house. Faculty and staff are a valuable resource for prospective students as they can provide important information regarding academic programs, resources, and even career advice. Ask them how a specific program can contribute to your professional development, or what skills you’ll learn from certain courses. Ask about requirements, deadlines, and anything else that will help you make your decision.
Engaging with faculty and staff is also a wonderful opportunity to leave a lasting impression and demonstrate your genuine interest in the school and its programs. Try to ask specific questions that go beyond basic information. Speaking with faculty will help you learn everything you need to know about the university and take a step closer to making your college decision.
3. Connect with current students
Connecting with current students can be one of the most helpful ways to gain insight into the overall college experience of the school you’re interested in. While official brochures and informational sessions led by faculty are useful, it does not substitute the authentic experiences of those currently attending the university. Current students can provide you with a first-hand perspective on day-to-day life on campus. You’ll be able to ask them what they love most about the university, the challenges they have faced, and perhaps tips on what resources to utilize.
An even more valuable suggestion is to connect with current students who are enrolled in the program you're interested in, or those that are members of an organization you’d like to join. They can share experiences related to coursework, projects, and the unique opportunities within your chosen field or organization, offering a more targeted and informative perspective that aligns directly with your goals.
4. Attend sample classes or workshops
Oftentimes during an open house, the university will offer sample classes, workshops, or presentations for students to learn about the school’s offerings. Take advantage of these hands-on, immersive opportunities to experience the teaching style and atmosphere of the academic environment. There will be multiple workshops taking place at once, so be sure to plan ahead and attend the ones you are particularly intrigued by. During the sessions, ask questions, seek advice, and express your interest in the subject matter. Attending these workshops are a great way to assess if the learning environment aligns with your preferences.
5. Consider the surrounding community
A college’s location plays a significant role in shaping your experience, so take time during your visit to tour the surrounding neighborhood. Tour the community and explore dining options and recreational activities available near the university to determine whether or not the area fits your lifestyle preferences.
At NJIT, you’ll have access to the many fun and exciting activities in the vibrant and historic Newark community. You’ll be just a few minutes away from Branch Brook Park, home to the largest collection of cherry blossoms in the country. And just a walking distance away from campus is the Newark Museum of Art, showcasing a vast collection of art from around the globe, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center that offers a wide array of performances ranging from musicals to comedy shows. NJIT is also just a train ride away from New York City, where you have access to the fun activities and amazing opportunities that NYC has to offer.
6. Reflect and compare
After attending multiple open houses, take time to reflect on your experiences. Compare the strengths and weaknesses of each college, considering factors such as academic offerings, campus culture, available resources, and overall fit. Identify your most crucial criteria for selecting a college, and assess which of the schools you visited align with your preferences. If you still have questions after your visit, contact the faculty at the university. Reflecting on your experience will guide your decision-making process as you move forward in your college search.
Make the Most of Your Open House Experience at NJIT
Attending college open houses is one of the most exciting parts of the college selection process. Making the most of your open house experience involves thorough preparation, active engagement, and thoughtful reflection. Attend an open house at NJIT and explore academic offerings and campus life and meet with faculty, staff, and current students to see what your college life could be like as a Highlander!