For Anika Marsh, the drive was worth it.

The prospective Brock student made the trip from Ottawa to learn more about the University’s Critical Criminology program while visiting campus as part of Open House on Sunday, April 7.

And she wasn’t alone. Marsh was one of about 4,500 people, from near and far, who attended annual event, a staple in Brock’s recruitment calendar.

She enjoyed touring campus and said one of the biggest highlights was engaging with faculty members at the bustling information fair in Ian Beddis Gymnasium.

“I arrived without clear expectations, but I am thoroughly impressed with the campus’s charm and beauty,” Marsh said. “The hospitality extended by everyone I encountered has been exceptional. Meeting Dean [of Social Sciences] Ingrid Makus was enlightening. I could see this being a great experience.”

Marsh also took time to stop for iconic Brock photos — including one with Boomer the Badger — throughout her visit. It was a trend Matt Melnyk, Director, Student Recruitment, said he noticed an increase in this year.

Prospective students and their families captured their Brock moments as they explored all that the University has to offer, pausing to pose with signage and campus landmarks, including the statue of Maj.-Gen. Sir Isaac Brock.

“They were really picturing themselves here, which was exciting to watch,” Melnyk said. “We want them to see the possibilities that exist at Brock, both inside and outside of the classroom, and to show them the community they will be a part of.”

Sunday’s guests were welcomed by hundreds of student ambassadors, staff and faculty members who were on hand to not only answer questions, but also share their own Brock experiences.

“Open House is made possible by people from across campus coming together to make it the success that it is,” said Carly Dugo, Senior Recruitment Officer, Events and Operations. “They’re eager to share their stories and that enthusiasm really resonates with our prospective students.”

In addition to campus and residence tours, visitors took in a variety of program-specific presentations and demonstrations that allowed them to dive deeper into their academic areas of interest, and learned about available supports, experiential education opportunities and orientation programs in place to help them hit the ground running come September.

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