The days are getting longer, temperatures are finally rising above freezing, and May 1’s National College Decision Day is just around the corner. It’s that time of year when admission open house announcements start flooding your inbox.
The University of Baltimore is hosting its annual spring Open House on Saturday, April 18. You can register to attend UBalt's Open House now.
So, what is an open house and why should you go?
The simple answer experts offer is it’s a one-stop shop for everything a student might need from a university they’re considering. Open houses typically include tours, meet-and-greets with faculty and staff, glimpses into student life and a general snapshot of the college experience.
“An open house helps students move beyond the website and experience a campus in real life,” said Sarah Creighton, a lead counselor with UBalt’s undergraduate admission team and a double alum at the University. “It’s often the moment when a college shifts from being an option to feeling like a real possibility.”
An open house is an opportunity for a student to see if that college is a good match, Creighton said.
“Schools can look similar online but feel very different in person. Visiting helps students compare culture, energy and support systems in a meaningful way,” Creighton said.
That one day can be a critical difference maker considering the majority of college-bound families (60 percent) are comparing three or more schools in their search, according to Niche.com. For 73 percent of families, open houses or school fairs pack the heaviest influence in their eventual choice.
“Fit isn’t just academic—it’s social, emotional and professional. They should pay attention to how they feel on campus. Do they feel comfortable? Motivated? Seen? Supported?” Creighton said. “It’s OK if their top choice changes after visiting. An open house is meant to clarify decisions. If a visit reshapes their thinking, that’s a sign the process is working exactly as it should.”
Rihanna Graham had her eyes set on the University of Baltimore with her goal of eventually attending its law school. Her open house experience solidified her decision.
“I just saw how everyone was warm and welcoming,” the first-year undergraduate student said. “I absolutely loved how it was such a small community, and everyone knew everybody.”
Speaking with an adviser at the open house also helped Graham determine which academic programs would best set her up for an eventual law school admission.
Carey Miller, director of student success and retention at UBalt, recommends prospective students should try to answer three things in particular at an open house: how can I pay for college, who will help me in my academic program and how can I get involved outside of class.
For academic questions, he urges students find an academic adviser or, if they know the program they want to pursue, connect with that program’s director.
“It's a great first step in building that relationship that is going to help further your career along once you arrive at the university,” he said.
Speaking with someone from financial aid or the bursar’s office can relieve common concerns about college cost and potentially introduce new options, he added.
Last, Miller said, taking time to learn about getting involved on campus can be a critical step toward finding a university that fits your interests.
At UBalt’s Open House, attendees not only can meet with faculty and staff, but get time to connect with current students and alumni for a first-hand perspective of the college experience.
“An engaged Open House experience often mirrors the kind of proactive, connected student experience UBalt encourages,” Creighton said.
With this in mind, she encourages prospective students to come prepared with questions they want answered. Think immediate and long term, she suggested: They should consider what they want to know about academic programs as well as internship accessibility and career outcomes.
“The professional energy and urban setting immediately reflect the hands-on, career-forward experience students can expect.”
UBalt’s Open House also includes an application workshop, with waived fees, so students who want to take advantage should bring documentation including an unofficial transcript.
“Students should think of an open house not just as a campus tour, but as their first opportunity to practice being a college student,” Creighton said. “We encourage them to introduce themselves, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up with an email if they are connected with someone meaningful. Those small actions build confidence and professional skills that matter long after the visit.”
Need a quick guide to attending an open house? Here’s what Sarah recommends.
Even if you miss an open house, there are other ways you can get familiar with a college or university, such as webinars, group and virtual tours, and various campus events.
At The University of Baltimore, where prospective students desire flexible options, the admission team hosts information sessions covering a variety of topics, including college program overviews and financial aid assistance for our different audiences: graduate, transfer and first-time undergraduate students. Learn about upcoming admission events.
Additionally, individual and group tours can be scheduled. You can also connect with an admission counselor directly and reach out to program directors by finding your program of interest.