Brock University drew record numbers to its Open House and Scholars Reception March 2.

The numbers are in and, despite another major snowfall the night before, Brock University drew record numbers for its Open House and Scholars Reception on March 2.

More than 3,600 people attended the major recruitment event where prospective students and their families take campus tours, attend special presentations or converge on the Ian Beddis Gym to speak with faculty and staff from scores of programs and departments.

The Scholars Reception, a key component of the Open House, also drew more than 300 guests, a significant increase over previous years.

Besides the handouts and personal consultations on offer in Beddis Gym, other popular destinations included residence tours, dedicated program presentations held in lecture halls, and tours of the nursing lab and other sites.

And throughout the afternoon, a steady stream of attendees took time to have their photo taken with Boomer the Badger.

Beth Natale, director of recruitment and retention, said the turnout represents an 11-per cent jump from last year’s then record-setting numbers.

She said the University expects another 1,000 guests to come on campus for tours during next week’s March break for Ontario high schools.

Brock had applications from more than 16,000 Ontario high school students this year, and there was an increase in market share of students who made Brock their first choice. The University will have an intake of approximately 4,000 new students in September.