High school students learn more about college life at USF Visit Day
College-bound students can learn more about college life at a special Visit Day at the University of St. Francis in Joliet. High school students and their parents are invited to spend the day at the University of St. Francis on Saturday, Sept. 17 to learn more about college life and USF programs.
"Selecting the college that is right for you can be a difficult decision," said Ron Clement, dean of Admissions and Admission Services. "To make the right choice, you need to experience the campus first hand."
The visit day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students and their parents will get to meet with faculty in their area of interest and with current USF students who will tell what life at USF is really like. They will also get to meet with other high school students who are considering the University of St. Francis.
Activities during the day will include prizes, a student panel discussion, academic program overview, meeting faculty and staff, campus tours and complimentary lunch. Students will learn about the special opportunities available at USF that lead to a successful career, said Clement, who noted that more than 83 percent of USF graduates find employment or enter graduate school within six months of graduation.
Information will be available on USF scholarships, tips for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and on applying for admission will be offered. Those who apply for admission on visit day will get the $20 admission fee waived, Clement added.
"With just a 13 to 1 student-to-professor ratio, we know that our students are getting an excellent academic experience by professors who not only know their names but know them as individuals. Our professors and everyone at USF is invested in the success of each of our students," said Clement.
"Many people may think a quality, private university education is out of reach. We can show you that private education costs can be comparable to public schools," said Clement. This year, the University of St. Francis will award about $6.3 million in institutional funds to student financial assistance. About 92 percent of USF undergraduate students receive some financial assistance, according to Clement.
The University of St. Francis is once again in the top tier of U.S. News & World Report’s edition of America’s Best Colleges. USF is ranked 29th, of some 142 Midwestern master’s colleges and universities noted in the 2006 listing, moving up nine ranks this year. The magazine ranking is read by many prospective college students and their families. "We’re excited that our work at USF is being recognized by incoming students," said Clement.
For Visit Day reservations or information about the University of St. Francis, call 800 735-7500 or visit the university’s website at www.stfrancis.edu/novvisit/. The next USF Visit Day will be Saturday, Nov. 19.
The University of St. Francis, at 500 Wilcox St. in Joliet, is a Catholic, Franciscan institution that offers more than 60 areas of undergraduate study in the areas of arts and sciences, business, education, music, nursing and allied health and social work. USF also offers 11 graduate programs in health care, business and education. The university serves more than 4,100 students nationwide.