Not even Hurricane Bonnie could dampen the spirit.
Enthusiasm was running high as Union
welcomed a record-breaking 564 prospective students and parents in two open
houses this summer.
Said one student after a drizzly day on Aug. 13, “I was so
interested in what my tour guide had to say, and I had such a great interview,
I did not have time to think about the bad weather.”
Another student cited the emphasis on making students
comfortable with the admissions process: “the presenters mentioned the school's
efforts to make the college search process as positive as possible, and it
really showed.”
“Our goal was not simply to show our beautiful campus, our
great programs and our friendly and talented people,” said Dan Lundquist, dean
of admissions. “We also wanted to give the students and families a sense for
what matters in the admissions process – for both sides – whether they end up
at Union or not. Simply put, we want to be partners in
good outcomes.”
In one event, Union's admissions
officers asked prospective students to take the stage in an exercise intended
to show what matters most in an application. Grammatical mistakes, for example,
don't weigh heavily. And a good recommendation from a favorite teacher may
carry more weight than one from a guidance counselor.
“I had a FABULOUS visit, which I can't say I really
expected,” said another student. “But now, I can't wait to visit again, apply,
and hopefully be accepted!”
Other comments included:
— “The campus had a very friendly feeling, and the school
was extremely presentable. I am very enthusiastic about applying to Union
College.”
— “Many of my family members are Union alums, causing me
to initially discount Union as one of my options when
applying to schools. However, after having visited Union,
I have completely changed my tune and cannot wait to apply.
— “I found Union more attractive
and friendly than I had imagined it. I will most definitely apply to your
school in the fall. I inquired about music (I play the harp) and both a
professor and secretary were exceptionally friendly and helpful.”
— “[Biology Professor] Peter Tobiessen was extremely
friendly and helpful by spontaneously showing us around the neuroscience
department after our tour.”
— “I just felt so much at home that the weather didn't
faze me at all. This summer, my father and I visited Union
for a second time, and I loved it even more. I had a great interview with
[Admissions Counselor] Kelly Herrington. Everything about my visits was great,
and I just wanted to let you know. Thank you.”