CSUMB prepares for rush of visitors during Open House

By Roger Ruvolo 

One day each fall, Cal State Monterey Bay opens its doors, inviting hundreds of prospective students, family members and other visitors to discover a gem of the state university system. This year, the annual Open House is on Oct. 18. 

Waves of visitors will crowd the campus walkways, corridors and classrooms from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., meeting with advisors, faculty and current students to get an up-close look at what it’s like to be an Otter and what the strength of that community can mean for their future endeavors.  

CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones said it’s a chance to explore the campus and its programs, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere...

"Open House is a tremendous opportunity for prospective students, their families and supporters to see why Cal State Monterey Bay is a leader in national rankings for providing transformational opportunities for our graduates,” Quiñones said. “We will showcase our excellent academic programs throughout the day, and show students the strength of our Otter Raft."

Elizabeth Rountree, associate vice president for enrollment management, said visitors might look at Open House as a bit of a test run. 

“We want prospective students to truly experience what life is like at Cal State Monterey Bay,” Rountree said. “Open House is designed to help guests connect with the campus and imagine themselves as part of the CSUMB community—pursuing their academic, professional, and personal goals. With opportunities to engage with student organizations, explore campus resources, and connect with faculty, this event offers students and their supporters a meaningful look at what makes a CSUMB education so unique.

Among the many programs that will be offered are the following: 

• More than 40 departments, clubs and organizations will be part of a resource fair on the main quad. Representatives will be on hand, prepared to share information and answer questions. 
• Guests can explore the university’s academic offerings, meet faculty members and learn about their research. Faculty members from every CSUMB college and every major will be on hand to meet with prospective students.  
• University representatives will conduct presentations about financial aid in both English and Spanish. 
• The university library’s computer lab will be open for the Application Lab providing one-on-one support for applying to CSUMB. 
• For one day only, the university’s campus tours will include a housing preview. Guests can get a sneak peek at life during a student’s first year at CSUMB. 

A Guidebook app, available on the Wednesday before the Open House, will enable guests to schedule their own CSUMB adventure, exploring areas of most importance to them. 

The university’s website will have more information about the event and give visitors a chance to register. 

For those who can’t attend, the website details other programs prospective students can connect with. The Admissions department has even innovated a K-8 Outreach Program to motivate and inform students in that age group about the benefits of higher education. 

Year-round, campus tours are available  for those wishing to check out life at CSUMB and consider attending. 

To learn more about the Open House as well as other outreach events, visit the Open House website.