WATERLOO - Thousands of students and their parents will visit the University of Waterloo next week for a preview of campus life.

March break open house, to be held Tuesday, March 17, is considered the best day for applicants to come to Waterloo and learn about academic programs and student services.

"Our students tell us that visiting the campus is the best way to see for themselves what the University of Waterloo has to offer," said Kim McKee, manager of UW's visitors centre. "We've planned an exciting day with lots of information to help students decide which university is best for them."

Students who have applied to UW will find the open house to be informative as it showcases Waterloo's academic and program strengths, world-leading co-op program and leadership opportunities. They will also be able to experience Waterloo's strong sense of community.

Most activities begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m. Students and their parents can pick up an event guide when they arrive.

At South Campus Hall, they can visit information booths before taking a walking tour of the campus. Residences and other student services departments are offering tours or drop-in visits all day.

Special presentations will answer questions about financing a university education, co-operative education, career services and residence life. UW's six faculties will hold program-specific activities, tours and information sessions.

There will also be a session aimed at international students, covering admissions, financing, student life and student services.

As well, the university colleges -- Conrad Grebel, Renison, St. Jerome's and St. Paul's -- are hosting tours and special events.

A separate open house will be held for students and parents interested in UW's school of architecture in Cambridge. They will be able to speak to faculty members, attend a program session, tour the school and view current students' admission portfolios. The school is located at 7 Melville St. S. in Cambridge.

For further information about the March break open house, visit http://www.findoutmore.uwaterloo.ca/visitus/mboh.php
or call 519-888-4567 ext. 33614.