Organisation - November 24, 2011
Many parents on open day
The open day for students last Saturday was a big success. The turnout was 30 percent higher than last year's. Among those present were many parents too.
Parents are playing a bigger role in the choice of studies. 'They, too, showed an upsurge of interest,' says Hermien Miltenburg. This could be because of the cabinet's plans concerning higher education. More than three hundred parents attended a presentation on, among other issues, study grants and the long-term student fine. 'But they are also wary of being too pushy,' adds Miltenburg. 'That's why I have also provided information about the adolescent brain and how to coach young adults.'
During the information session for parents, VHL and Wageningen University were both presented. 'In this way, we offered them a nice total package,' feels Miltenburg, who also set up a website for parents: ouders.wur.nl. Judging from the past, an increased interest could be a direct indication of the number of new students. 'But 30 percent more students is of course too good to be true,' cautions Moorman. There is no clear-cut explanation for the achievement so far. Throughout the country, there were 20 percent more 'spectators' than last year because relatively more students now study in 'HAVO' and 'VWO' pre-university classes, adds Moorman.
Phases
The open day enables prospective students to make their first acquaintance of a university. If they like it, they can take part in a general students' day in the study of their choice. Subsequently, they can also spend a day with a student individually.