Clarkson Integrator

Issue date: 4/3/06 Section: News

Media Credit: Aaron Fetterman

One of the most important open houses happens in the middle of the spring semester, when high school seniors both know what schools have accepted them and have a break from their work. This year, that open house was last Saturday, April 1, and in the midst of the regular chaos of activities, tours, and luncheons was a test of the grand 'defy convention' marketing campaign.

Last weekend's open house also coincided with the GE Women's Leadership Conference. A number of prospective female students had the opportunity to see a full day of Clarkson activities. These students also spent the night with a host student and participated in unique leadership activities.

While the 'defy convention' campaign was not very articulate towards current students, leaving many wondering what the administration was trying to pull over on them, the prospective students seem to have understood it clearly.

"Be out of the ordinary" said Erica Decker, from Kerhonkson, New York. "Be different and stand out" said Justing Klaubert from Westfield, Massachusetts; his mom added "Don't be the pack."

While they agreed that it described the university's feeling very well, they did not immediately recognize it. One mother of a prospective student said, "We haven't heard it at all." Decker also commented that she got more mail from Clarkson than any other school, so all of her questions were answered.

Each of the prospective students had different reasons for liking Clarkson. For some, the faculty were the most attractive part. Others really liked the people and the community atmosphere. "Clarkson is more promotional of [being yourself]," said Decker. The programs that Clarkson offers, like the Engineering and Management major, were also most attractive. Many of the parents emphasized the community, and how happy and honest people at Clarkson seemed.

As with most open houses, there was an activities fair during the day, and free lunch available in Cheel. Some organizations represented at the tables in Cheel included the Outing Club, WCKN, the International Student Organization, WTSC, the Cycling Club, and Alpha Kappa Psi.

Each department had representatives at the lunch, answering questions from prospective students and their parents. There were several group tours traveling around campus, trailing backward-walking guides. The last major event of the day was Dr. Jim's Magical Chemistry Show, which is always a popular attraction.

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