George Brown campuses were buzzing with activity during the Spring Open House this past Saturday as thousands of prospective students, their families, and guests explored programs, toured specialized spaces, and connected with the people who define the post-secondary experience.
For many visitors, the day offered more than information it was a firsthand look at the vibrant culture, supportive community, and real-world learning environments that current students experience every day.
"It's so rewarding to see our guests actively engage with our programming and experience the spirit and culture that define our polytechnic," said Olena Shklar, Manager of Domestic Recruitment and Entry Advising. "We provide hands-on support to prospective students, so they leave with a strong understanding of what truly sets us apart our academic offerings, clubs and extracurricular activities, and comprehensive student supports."
Experiencing campus through a student lens
Current students were at the heart of the experience, welcoming visitors, leading tours and sharing candid insights into their programs, campus services and student supports. From classrooms and labs to informal conversations in campus spaces, their presence helped prospective students imagine themselves as part of the George Brown community.
For student ambassadors, the event was a chance to reflect on their own journeys while helping others take their first steps. The sense of excitement was evident as visitors engaged in interactive demonstrations with faculty and partners, asked questions about programs, and connected with students who once stood in their place.
These peer-to-peer interactions brought the experience to life, helping guests understand what learning at George Brown looks and feels like beyond the classroom.
Future Huskies also had the chance to put themselves at the heart of George Brown through an interactive photo booth, where they could step into the campaign and George BrOWN their Tomorrow with a keepsake photo of the experience.
Informative and engaging
The Spring Open House struck a careful balance between information and energy. Faculty members showcased program highlights, staff shared details on admissions, financial aid and student services, and campus spaces were alive with activity throughout the day, featuring DJs, Raptors dancers, and activations across the campuses
Both domestic and international applicants were also given access to on-site application support and could claim an Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) voucher, which covered the program application fee, to help reduce barriers and make the next step towards their academic goals more accessible.
Between tours and presentations, families and future students took time to connect, enjoy the atmosphere, and explore the campuses as active, living spaces that support academic and personal success.
Community support makes the difference
The event reflected the true collective effort required to create these experiences, as more than 650 faculty, staff, students, and community members came together to deliver a welcoming, inclusive experience for prospective students and their guests.
Janene Christiansen, Registrar and Associate Vice President, Strategic Enrolment, emphasized the importance of that shared commitment, noting that the success of the event depends on "a collective effort from faculty, support staff, and administrators throughout the institution to create entrance and pathways to an inclusive and welcoming experience" for prospective students and their guests. She also expressed appreciation for the enthusiasm and dedication shown by those who supported the day.
As the Spring Open House wrapped up, thousands of prospective students left with more than program details; they left with a sense of possibility and connection, and a vision of how they could own their tomorrow from day one.
Miss the Open House? Connect with George Brown and plan your next step!
