Brock University rolled out the welcome mat for thousands of visitors during Sunday’s Open House, one of the most important events in the recruitment calendar. 

Travelling from around Niagara, the GTA and other parts of Canada, about 4,200 prospective students, parents and other guests toured campus, asked questions at the on-site information fair and took in sessions that provided program-specific details.

Prospective Sport Management student Ethan Crystal, flanked by parents Felicia and Todd, spent Sunday learning all about what Brock has to offer.

A small army of close to 300 faculty, staff and student volunteers — each sporting their signature red Brock gear — welcomed visitors and provided information about undergraduate and graduate academic programs, experiential education options, student services and research opportunities.

“The vibe has been terrific, with tons of energy,” said Beth Natale, Brock’s Director of Recruitment. “I think that’s in large part because our entire campus community participates.”

Natale was impressed with the turnout given the unseasonably cold temperatures and occasional blast of flurries that hit Niagara throughout the day.

Open House is a critical event in the recruitment calendar, with many secondary school applicants weighing their options before making a final decision by June 1.

“Many of the students here today have offers of admission in hand and they’re literally comparing us with the other schools they’ve applied to,” Natale said. “It’s an important day for us to shine and to tell the full story of what Brock has to offer.”

Ethan Crystal journeyed from Montreal alongside parents Todd and Felicia to get a taste of the Brock experience he had read so much about online.

“Seeing the University on the computer compared to being here in person is two different things. I’m really enjoying it and glad we came,” said the prospective Sport Management student. “You really get a feel for the school. I’m excited.”

Crystal said Brock’s SPMA program is highly regarded and after spending some time with faculty Sunday, he can see why.

While he has yet to make a final decision for fall, he said his time at Open House has him leaning towards a Brock start in September — a thought that sits well with his mother Felicia.

“I’m very impressed,” she said of her initial on-campus experience. “Everyone has been so welcoming and knowledgeable. This campus is big but it has a feel of intimacy, like a community.”

That welcoming feel is what Brock strives to provide, Natale said, while crediting all involved in Open House for making that possible.