“Everything about Union fits with what I'm looking for from a small liberal arts college,” said Ben Zucker, a high school senior from Short Hills, N.J. “I also love the idea of the trimester system.”
Zucker shared his impressions of the College over lunch with his mother, Elynne, and Union staff and faculty Monday in Memorial Field House. He was one of 529 prospective students and family members who came to campus for the fall open house, an all-time record for the College.
College President Stephen C. Ainlay greeted the group, and everyone basked in the perfect 70-degree weather.
More than one visitor remarked about the “beautiful campus” and its centerpiece, the Nott Memorial. This year's visitors saw the Nott in a new way – tied with a big pink ribbon, the symbol for breast cancer awareness, as part of a dramatic fundraiser organized by Lis Sartori '07.
Panels of current Union College students offered open discussion on “Learn What College is Really Like.” Other sessions on financial aid, research and internships, and residential life were well attended.
Many prospective students also sat in on classes. Wilgris Suazo, a high school senior from New York City, visited Associate Professor of Philosophy Felmon J. Davis' Introduction to Ethics course.
“It was good to be able to see what a college classroom is actually like,” she said. “Professor Davis was excellent.” Suazo took part in the annual Multicultural Weekend that wrapped up Monday. More than 150 students enjoyed three days of workshops and activities.
Dan Lundquist, dean of Admissions, said nothing is more important to Admissions than these campus programs.
“As one mother, a Union alumna, told me on her second visit here, Union does a better job of presenting the whole college experience, not just academics.”
A visiting guidance counselor summed up a Union campus visit this way: “All colleges say how good they are – and some actually are – but Union is really, truly wonderful. And seeing is believing.”
The next Admissions Open House is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 10.