Anyone who’s considering attending the University of Lethbridge can get a 360-degree view of campus during the annual Open House on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“If you apply to attend uLethbridge for fall 2017, either before or at Open House, and you attend Open House, you will receive a pair of U of L virtual reality goggles,” says Natasha Buis Deering (BA ’02), director of enrolment services.

The Google Cardboard virtual reality (VR) goggles work with iPhones or Android phones and give the wearer a VR experience. The U of L has developed its own VR content for the occasion so students can view the campus and its landscape, student spaces and residence units.

To start off the day, prospective students can attend a ‘Planning Your Way’ session at 9:30 a.m. to map out the best way to take advantage of Open House.

“Our typical big draw is on-the-spot admission to qualified high school applicants, excluding competitive admission programs,” says Buis Deering. “In addition, application stations will be available for students who want to apply to uLethbridge.”

The Open House has sessions designed to inform prospective students about many aspects of university life, from living in residence and internship opportunities to research opportunities as an undergraduate student. A group of uLethbridge Shining Students, whose professors have recommended them as shining examples of the work and research done in their program, will display their work, talk about the research they’re involved in and speak to students about why they shine at uLethbridge.

 “We’re hoping that, by showcasing our students, they will get that authentic message from their peers that helps them identify what research means,” she says.

Faculty hubs will also be operating during Open House. Students who want to explore several areas of study can attend mini-lectures to see what sparks their interest. The registrar’s office and Book Store will be open from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. and the nursing simulation lab, addictions counselling labs, the Trading Room and the practice rooms, labs and studios in Fine Arts will also be open. For the first time, the School of Graduate Studies will participate in Open House to give prospective students an idea of the graduate student experience.

“This is truly a behind-the-scenes peek at what we offer,” she says. “This Open House should provide students a sense of what to expect in their higher education and how to make the most of it to be successful.”

Those who want to attend the Open House are encouraged to register, especially if they want to pick up an offer of admission.