Judson University hosts prospective students

Oscar Ortiz, 21, spent Labor Day with about 30 other prospective Judson University students, learning about the school instead of enjoying a day off.

The Buffalo Grove student currently attends Harper College but is trying to figure out where to transfer for an architecture degree. He showed up at Judson for the preview day focused and prepared.

“I knew what I was looking for and what I wanted to ask,” Ortiz said.

In the daylong event, Ortiz got most of his questions answered and a good feel for the campus and student body.

John Dubal, 25, of Elgin, said it was a similar preview day that helped him decide to attend Judson when he was ready to transfer out of Elgin Community College. A student ambassador befriended him on the tour, sparking his interest in helping future Judson students decide. During a lunch break, Dubal spoke with Ortiz and his parents about what the Christian liberal arts college is like.

He said the student community is especially friendly and tight-knit.

“Everyone is smiling over here,” Dubal said. “Everyone wants to know your name.”

More than a dozen student ambassadors gave similar insight to other prospective students Monday with six admissions representatives ready to answer questions as well.

Nancy Binger, executive director of enrollment services, said the students started the day with a welcome and address by University President Jerry Cain. They then got a tour of the campus, sat in on chapel, spoke with faculty members in their areas of interest and spent the afternoon seeing dorms and learning about extracurricular activities. Parents also had a chance to get more information about financial aid.

Binger said this is the first year Judson has hosted prospective students on Labor Day but has five other days set up throughout the year. More information about future tours is available at judsonu.edu.