VCU news

By Malorie Burkett

Virginia Commonwealth University's Office of Undergraduate Admissions recently hosted this fall's first Open House, a program that gives prospective students and their families the opportunity to explore VCU by learning more about the university's academic programs and campus life.

"Open house is an opportunity for families to get a firsthand view of Virginia Commonwealth University," said Delores Taylor, director of undergraduate admissions. "We hope students will come away from our open house with valuable information and the feeling that VCU is the right college for them to continue their education."

The daylong program is designed for prospective students and their families to explore VCU and gain a perspective on the university. Visitors had the opportunity to attend information sessions on VCU's academic programs, speak with administrators, faculty, staff and current students and receive a firsthand look at VCU campus life and residence halls by participating in a walking tour of the campus.

Registration took place at the start of the day at the ALLTEL Pavilion of VCU's Siegel Center. In addition, representatives from various student services, including Campus Police, Student Health Services, Recreational Sports, Parking and Transportation and University Student Commons and Activities were available at information tables to answer questions and speak with prospective students.

Following registration and check-in, the visitors gathered in the arena and received a welcome from a panel including Dr. Roderick McDavis, provost and vice-president for academic affairs; Dr. Henry Rhone, vice provost for student affairs and enrollment services; William Ginther, president of the VCU Alumni Association; Samantha Marsh, VCU student and executive director of university relations, Student Government Association; and Carol Sesnowitz, director of out of state recruitment, Office of Undergraduate Admissions. The panel encouraged the guests to take advantage of their visit by exploring the university and asking many questions throughout the day.

After the welcoming remarks, VCU's Student Ambassadors of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions were on hand to escort groups of individuals to the various schools and programs for overview sessions, which were intended for students to learn more about their majors of interest and degree programs. Throughout the day, the Student Ambassadors also led walking campus tours for the visitors, which included sightseeing of VCU's academic buildings, facilities and a look into some of VCU's residence halls.

VCU's Office of Undergraduate Admissions will host a second Fall Open House on Saturday, Nov. 8. For more information, visit www.vcu.edu/openhouse/.