Ali Sadaka jokingly stands next to a mannequin to help promote the Paramedic program at the 2019 Algonquin College Winter Open House held at the college Jan. 19. Photo credit: Jeremy Sauve

More than 2,000 visitors attended the college’s Winter Open House on Jan. 19, where future students could learn more information about various programs at the college.

Located in the Market Place Food Court, D-Building booths could be found pertaining to a wide variety of programs such as arts and design, computers and technology and health among many others.

Anne Kalil, manager of recruitment, was surprised to find out that 1,400 students had signed up online. Those who hadn’t signed up in advance, on iPads that were provided in the E-Building.

“It`s crazy having this many people come out when it`s so cold outside,” said Kalil. “We want people to know more about our programs before they sign up.”

Zachary Williams, a first-year paramedic student, was among the program ambassadors who offered information to any potential students who walked by his booth.

“There was a pretty steady amount of students who came out today, but not as many as the police and firefighting programs.”

Nina Asha, one of the many who attended the open house, said that she learned a lot about what the college has to offer.

“Everyone I spoke to was very enthusiastic about their programs which only fuelled my own excitement about enrolling,” Asha said. “I feel like I am on the right track in reaching my education and career goals.”

Student ambassadors were conveniently placed around the college to help new students get around the college.

Program coordinators and faculty also provided more specific information within their classrooms, referred there by representatives staffing the tables in the food court.

Algonquin`s next open house will take place on Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m at the Pembroke Campus.