Admissions Blog: Why an open house is a great way to explore Sweet Briar

Prospective students and their families learn about Sweet Briar’s engineering program through a hands-on project with Hank Yochum, director of the program, during last year’s fall open house.


So you’re looking at Sweet Briar and you’re excited to come to campus and visit — or you’re not completely sold and still have some questions. Maybe it’s because our colors include pink, or you’re not sure that an all-women’s college is for you. Well, when I was looking at colleges, I was worried about all of these things and more. Then I came to one of Sweet Briar’s Admissions Open Houses. The time I spent on campus with those current students truly shaped my enthusiasm to make Sweet Briar my own home away from home. Now, I’d like to share my top-10 reasons why coming to an open house can help secure your own home away from home.

1. 
   

   Fun Activities

   
   There’s always something fun to do on campus during open house events, such as bonfires and carnivals (sometimes with SBC gear giveaways!).
   
2. 
   

   Snacks!

   
   Of course along with fun activities, there’s always some yummy snacks! Not only will you get to eat in our wonderful dining hall, you’ll also experience s’mores around an open fire.
   
3. 
   

   Exploration

   
   During open houses you’ll often find free time to explore campus with your host student. You may even have a moment to go sit down by the boathouse at one of two lakes we have on campus and reflect on things you’ve experienced here.
   
4. 
   

   College Classes

   
   On Monday, there are opportunities to attend a variety of classes, such as a religion class on good and evil, or maybe a psychology class on personality!
   
5. 
   

   Faculty and Staff

   
   In those classes, you’ll interact with our amazing faculty and staff, so make sure to say hello and introduce yourself — they can’t wait to meet you!
   
6. 
   

   Coaches and Riding Instructors

   
   Our coaches and riding staff are also available for meetings and are always looking for friendly new faces to add to the team. Schedule an appointment to meet and greet them during your stay.
   
7. 
   

   Glimpse of Dorm Life

   
   Sunday night will provide you with a glimpse of a typical dorm experience. You’ll feel right at home with your host student and her roommates.
   
8. 
   

   Awesome Current Students

   
   Since you’ll have a host for the weekend, there are many opportunities to meet current students on and off campus. Talk to as many as you can; each of us have our own unique SBC stories to share!
   
9. 
   

   Potential Classmates

   
   Not only will you make connections with current students, you’ll also be able to meet other potential classmates, and who knows? Maybe you’ll find your perfect future roomie!
   
10. 
    

    Community

    
    Finally, an open house is the best way that I know to immerse yourself in the special community we have here at Sweet Briar.
    

Once it comes time to leave, you’ll take these experiences with you. Not too long after you arrive back in your hometown, you’ll notice yourself wearing a little more pink and telling others about how Sweet Briar might just be the place for you after all. To sign up for an open house, go to our Visit Sweet Briar page.

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Senior Emily Hawk is a student ambassador in the admissions office. A liberal studies major with a minor in psychology, she plans to stay at Sweet Briar for another year to complete her M.A.T. In between classes and campus tours, the Goochland, Va., native serves as publicity officer in the Student Government Association.