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Sept. 4, 2024
The largest fair of its kind in North America, the , is back in-person on Oct. 5-6 and bigger than ever!
During the two-day event, parents, guardians and other supporters will have the opportunity to speak to admission staff, Deans, professors and students from 21 universities – all in one location. Located at the Metropolitan Toronto Convention Centre, there were more than 86,000 visitors who attended last year.
Given the massive scale of this event, university-bound students often show up equally excited and nervous. And so do their parents and supporters who have concerns and aspirations of their own. We’ve got OUF tips from the pros for your future university student – but what about you?
While it’s easy to feel like a deer caught in the headlights at OUF – especially if this is your first time – there are ways to use your time and energy wisely to get the most out of the weekend.
After hybrid classes, curtailed social events and a joyful return to the classroom, it’s no secret many young people are feeling some social anxiety. Fortunately, prepping in advance of OUF calms jittery nerves. Look over the event map together and decide which school booths you’ll want to attend. Write a set list of questions together. Your student will not only feel confident when visiting booths, by asking the exact same questions of each school, it’s easier to compare their answers later.
There’s nothing school admissions officers love more than seeing a student is fully supported by their support network. But according to these experts, adults have one job at OUF: Let the student speak for themselves. While it’s tempting to step in to lead conversations, especially if your child is struggling, take a breath and wait. Talking to admissions, student ambassadors and professors at OUF is good preparation for university and becoming independent. Let them take ownership of their dreams, career goals and passions.
Many careers have changed significantly since you were in high school, and universities have kept pace. There may be newer or more niche programs available to suit your student better based on their career plans. For instance, someone interested in both business and technology might decide to take business technology management instead of a more traditional business administration program. Keep your mind open to new possibilities!
You and your student have grabbed a stack of university viewbooks, signed up to receive school emails and it’s time for home. What’s next? After a good night’s rest, sit down and decide together which schools you’ll continue to investigate. Visit websites, book campus tours and attend open houses. Whether your student is in grade 11 with plenty of time to make decisions, or in grade 12 and will apply this winter, enjoy this pivotal moment together as you find an inspiring university that will become a home away from home.