April 8 is Admitted Student Day, a fun and informative day for you to learn about the Pacific experience. But with such an action-packed schedule of events, how can you be sure you’re making the most of it? We spoke to Andrew Merenda, director of campus visit programs and events, about his tips for success before you visit us on campus.
“Admitted Student Day is a great opportunity for admitted students to meet other future Tigers, current Pacific students and faculty and to get a good glimpse into the day in the life of the Pacific student,” says Merenda. “We highly encourage you all to attend and have a great time.”
Be early
If this is your first time visiting Pacific, it’s a good idea to arrive early so you can familiarize yourself with our campus (and snag a good parking space). You will be checking in front of the DeRosa University Center, which has Parking Lots 6 and 7 located to the east and west of the building. You can find all other parking lots on the campus map.
The opening session at the DeRosa University Center will start at 10 a.m., but you can start checking in at 8:30 a.m. (and grab a bite at the Continental Welcome Breakfast). There will also be campus and housing tours happening every 15 minutes starting at 9 a.m., so you can start exploring Pacific shortly after you arrive on campus.
Wear comfy shoes
One of the highlights of Admitted Student Day is the opportunity to explore Pacific’s beautiful, 175-acre campus, but make sure you come prepared. “For (those) who are visiting that day, we encourage them to wear comfortable walking shoes, as they’ll be checking out campus on foot that day,” says Merenda.
It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast in the morning before you take off, as springtime in the Central Valley can be unpredictable—layers are your friends.
Catch a lecture
Admitted Student Day is your chance to truly immerse yourself in the Pacific experience and picture your future as a student here. With our Class Experience Preview, you’ll be able to get a sneak peek at what classes at Pacific are like. These sessions will include presentations from faculty members in the sciences, humanities, engineering and more.
“You’ll have the opportunity to sit in on the class and experience an academic session at the university,” says Merenda. Plus, this is your chance to get to know your future professors, and some of your future classmates as well, so you won’t want to skip out.
Ask lots of questions
We know you have a lot on your mind—here’s your chance to ask away. At Admitted Student Day, you will be able to chat with current students about their experiences.
“Ask why they chose Pacific and what they really enjoy about being a student here,” suggests Merenda. You will also have a chance to speak with professors and Pacific staff from career services, residential life, academic resources and more.
And if you have any questions about the event schedule or where to find certain spots on campus, keep an eye out for our “Tiger Team” in the bright orange polos—they’ll be happy to help.
Stop by financial aid
Questions about your financial aid reward? This is the day to get answers.
“Financial Aid will be available all day for one-on-one appointments,” says Merenda. “Parents and family members and students simply check in at Knoles Hall and can meet with a financial counselor one-on-one.”
Also, check out our new “one-stop shop” on the main floor of Knoles Hall to get support for all university administrative services, from admissions to housing, in one central location.
Have fun
While you’re checking out all the academic sessions and taking tours on campus, remember to enjoy yourself in the process! And don’t forget: after Admitted Student Day, you and your family are invited to cheer on the Tigers at the baseball game and tailgate party!
“My hope is that everyone has a really good time,” says Merenda. “They get to see all the great things that Pacific has to offer…and just get really excited for their upcoming fall semester as they start their college journey with us.”
Register for Admitted Student Day or visit our admitted students page for more information. If you have any questions ahead of the event, please contact Andrew Merenda, Director of Campus Visit Programs and Events, at amerenda@pacific.edu or 209.932.2835.