Ferris State University staff, faculty and students will greet hundreds of “Bulldogs to be” on the main campus in Big Rapids on Saturday, March 16, answering questions about classes and helping them prepare for the next step in their educational journey.

The Admitted Student Open House takes place in the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive in Big Rapids, with registration starting at 9 a.m.

Assistant Director of Orientation Emily Hicks said collaborating with enthusiastic volunteers from university colleges and departments boosts the Office of Admissions’ effort to engage and inform visiting students and their guests.

“College meetings are the focal point of our morning programming for incoming students and their supporters,” Hicks said. “These sessions have proven valuable as our opportunity to answer questions ahead of advising appointments that begin in May. I have heard so many positive reactions to this ‘hands-on’ approach, as it allows incoming Bulldogs to get familiar with Ferris and prepared for our on-boarding process.”

The event starts at 9 a.m. and following college meetings, a resource fair is held from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Hicks said optional presentations are then available to all guests through the midday and early afternoon, where Admissions and Financial Aid specialists, Housing and Residence Life staff and Center for Student Involvement representatives explain their resources and roles.  

Lunch will be available, and optional campus tours complete the day’s schedule for those interested. Ferris ID cards can be acquired by incoming students in the Bulldog Service Center, below Ferris Outfitters.

“We had nearly 200 admitted students attend our February open house, where more than 750 guests took part,” Hicks said. “There will be nearly 300 students arriving on the 16th to begin their journey here, as we expect approximately 900 visitors for this program.”

Orientation sessions for those beginning at Ferris in the Fall 2024 semester begin Monday, June 10. The first day of classes in the new academic year will begin Monday, Aug. 26.