Fall Visitors’ Day charms prospective Whitties

For Jocelyn Clark, a senior at Enumclaw (Washington) High School, the top attraction of this year's Fall Visitors' Day at Whitman was sitting in on a Spanish class—a subject she hopes to study in college.

"The students talked to me and answered my questions, and I feel like I got a real taste of what a college class is like. I also thought the Walla Walla community was cool, and the campus is very pretty," said Clark.

She joined about 50 high school juniors and seniors who previewed potential college life at Whitman through class visits, meetings with admission staff and presentations about internships, off-campus studies and more.

Rosie Smith, a senior at Weber High School in Pleasant View, Utah, also appreciated Whitman's physical surroundings.

"The art sculptures around campus were so unique and inspiring and the town was adorable," she said. "I also loved how friendly and unique all of the students were. My tour guide was so funny and full of character—he did a great job of showing off the school and gave us his own personal views on each building or space."

Parents also enjoyed the campus tour. Lola Klug, who visited with her daughter, Willow, a senior at Hockinson High School in Bush Prairie, Washington, noticed the "vivid autumn colors and lighting. At the same time, we learned about our guide's Whitman experience, which was incredibly valuable."

This year's Fall Visitors' Day attendees hail from 11 states. According to Director of Admission Adam Miller, visitors valued both the breadth of programming and the openness of the Whitman community.

"Fall Visitors' Day is unique because there are so many options available: a student panel, in-depth tours of facilities like the Harper Joy Theatre and presentations by hallmark programs like the Outdoor Program. We even have an opportunity for student and parents to engage with faculty from every academic department through the Academic Programs Fair."

Along with many other faculty members, Assistant Professor of Art History and Visual Culture Studies Lisa Uddin opened her class to prospective Whitties.

"Visiting students are always welcome to check out my classes," said Uddin. "Whenever a student visits, I encourage them to sit at the table and be present for whatever large or small group work we might be doing."

Whitman also hosts a Spring Visitors' Day and an Admitted Students' Day. To register or find out more, contact the Office of Admission.