Media Release

For Immediate Release

October 20, 2006

Prospective Students Love SMU: High school students get a taste of the world at today's Open House

Student volunteers were on hand to give campus tours at this year's Open House at Saint Mary's. Zach Churchill, President of the Saint Mary's University Students' Association (SMUSA), performed an entertaining hip-hop song he wrote promoting the SMU experience. Prospective students got a taste of Asian culture at today's open house.   Monica Wood (third from left), Director of Student Recruitment, poses for a picture with her team of hard workers at today's Open House. Wood and her team put on a stellar show today! Hundreds of students flocked to SMU for today's Open House.   A local high school student checks out the University's recruitment material. Over 500 people were registered at today's Open House.   Local high school students on their way to the main Information Session that was held in the Loyola Building.

High school students from the region had the time of their lives at this afternoon’s Open House at Saint Mary’s.

Over 500 students registered today had the chance to learn more about degree programs — Arts, Commerce, Science and Graduate Studies and Research — available, as well became familiarized with campus life and the international experience they can gain while students.

“SMU is the University I will be attending,” says John Dean, a local high school student.

He will be enrolling in the Faculty of Arts next fall.

“The University has so much to offer, especially when it comes to international mobility programs. I can’t wait to be a student here next year,” he smiles.

Other students raved about the University.

“The University has a really neat campus environment,” says Sarah Donald, a local high school student.

“I know that no matter what degree I earn — Arts or Commerce or Science — that I can work anywhere I want in any part of the world.

There was information sessions held all around campus this afternoon. A large number of SMU student volunteers provided campus tours. As well, high school students enjoyed the Cultural Extravaganza that took place in a large tent set up next to the Tower Gym.

"I feel like so cultured after attending the Cultural Extravaganza," says Sonia Palmer, a local high school student.

"The University has put on an amazing show today and you can count on me being here next fall," adds Palmer.

Today’s Open House event was hosted by the University’s Recruitment Office.

The next open house, which is slated for next March, is expected to draw over 700 prospective students.

Saint Mary's University is known for its community outreach projects, both in Canada and around the world. Saint Mary's, founded in 1802, is home to one of Canada's leading business schools, a Science Faculty widely known for its cutting-edge research, a comprehensive and innovative Arts Faculty and a vibrant Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research.

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For More Information:

Paul Fitzgerald
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: paul.fitzgerald@smu.ca
www.smu.ca