After a successful admitted-student event in March, the final two Bearcat Days will take place on April 6–7 and April 13–14. The events are designed to give admitted students a sense of what life as a Bearcat is like. They feature class visits, an overnight stay in a residence hall, campus tours and sessions about student activities and academic programs.
Feedback from Bearcat Days in March was overwhelmingly positive with parents and students praising the Willamette community for its warm welcome.
A few reactions from students:
“Great getting to experience a class! Got a good idea of what a college class will be like — class size, format, difficulty, etc.”
“I went to the Freshman Experience session. Heard a lot of really good questions and learned a lot about Willamette. Students and faculty sitting on the panel were very good at answering questions.”
… and from parents:
“I had an amazing experience at Willamette. I loved the parents I met and thought the faculty was excellent. My son also enjoyed his experience and learned a lot about what Willamette is all about.”
“Everyone was so helpful, courteous and polite. It was a joy to attend. We learned a ton and are very happy we did. Thanks.”
“We were very impressed with the entire event! You went above and beyond what other schools do. Everything was well organized. Everyone we spoke with and all we learned about Willamette was very positive from start to finish. I really hope my son chooses WILLAMETTE!!!” (We do, too!)
“Too bad it was raining on Friday!” (Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it!)
These comments demonstrate how every element of students’ visits — from the discussions they witness during classes, to the service they receive at the Bistro, to the passers-by who help them find their way — can impact their decision on whether to enroll at Willamette.
As you may recall, it is helpful for faculty and staff to find alternative methods of transportation to and from work on Bearcat Days to allow additional space for visitors to park. Campus Safety is willing to provide rides to those who are willing to park in the softball parking lot off of 14th street. We appreciate your understanding if parking is tighter and lines in the Bistro and Goudy are a bit longer than usual. Your graciousness is, as always, greatly appreciated.
Please join us in giving our visitors a warm Willamette welcome! For more information about Bearcat Days, see the student and parent schedules.
Regarding food service on Bearcat Days, please note:
- Chef Hopeton will prepare a special meal on the patio outside of Goudy Commons, weather permitting, or inside Goudy on Thursday and Friday.
- The Montag Store will open at 11 a.m. both Fridays with grab-and-go selections, beverages and snacks.
- Goudy Commons will be open both Fridays for lunch at 10:30 a.m. and will offer more efficient services at each station to move our guests through the cafe at a faster pace.
- Kaneko Café is always a great option and will feature katsu on Friday.