Just as they plan to in September, Sara Ahmed and Lana Alshaer arrived at Brock University’s main campus together on Sunday, April 2.

The best friends came prepared to learn all about what they can expect when they begin their Brock journey in the Medical Sciences program this fall.

Ahmed and Alshaer, who both live in Welland but are from Sudan and Palestine, respectively, were among thousands of prospective students who attended the University’s Open House, which highlighted academic programs, extracurricular activities and all aspects of the student experience for families looking to learn more.

“I feel like Brock is a very good university and I like the community here,” Ahmed says, adding she’s gained insight through current students who have shared their experiences with her.

She hoped to learn more about her future program during the event, so she’s prepared to start off on the right foot this fall.

Kianna McFarlane, who was at the Open House with her mother Stacy, says being able to explore campus in person is an important factor as she chooses which school to attend this fall.

The Waterdown resident has been accepted to Brock’s Concurrent Education program and was looking forward to gaining perspective on where her studies could potentially take her beyond graduation.

“There’s something special about this day. People are picturing what their future will look like, what they will accomplish here at Brock and how it will help to shape their life moving forward,” says Matt Melnyk, Director of Student Recruitment.

“You can see the excitement on students’ faces and how much they appreciate having the opportunity to speak with faculty who will be leading their classes and upper-year students who can answer questions about classroom and campus experiences.”

A significant event in Brock’s recruitment calendar, Open House brings together faculty, staff and students from departments across the University, which adds to the community feel Brock has become known for.

Sunday’s sunshine and crisp spring weather helped to draw out a near-record number of Open House visitors, with more than 4,000 people taking in tours, demonstrations and various presentations focused on all that Brock has to offer.

“This was our first in-person spring Open House since before the pandemic and we saw the event return neck and neck with our biggest years,” Melnyk says. “You can really feel positive energy in the air at an event like this. Choosing a university is really about making an optimistic decision about your future. Where you’ll study, where you’ll live and the possibilities that lay ahead of you.”

For more information on upcoming events and applying to Brock University, visit brocku.ca/discover