Contact:

Aaron Hoskins
SDSU Marketing & Communications
T. 619-594-1119
E. ahoskins@mail.sdsu.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SDSU to Hold Open House for Future Aztecs
Seventh Annual Event includes Workshops,Q&A Sessions with Faculty, Students

SAN DIEGO, Wednesday, February 27, 2002 – Thousands of prospective freshman, college transfer students and parents are expected to tour San Diego State University during its seventh annual Open House on Saturday, March 23, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Future Aztecs Day will offer workshops, tours, information tables and opportunities to interact with current students. Admitted students and their families can gain a more personal connection to the campus and the faculty, staff and students through workshops and discussion groups that will cover areas such as financial aid, education abroad, campus housing, the Freshman Success Programs and more.

“The Open House is crucial for incoming students as they will see how comprehensive and well rounded their SDSU experience can be,” said Stephen L. Weber, SDSU president. “The university has received more than 41,000 applications for fall 2002, and Future Aztecs Day highlights why SDSU is among California’s most popular campuses.”

Students can utilize the Open House to get their university careers started in the right direction.

“The Open House played a key role in my ability to make a smooth transition from high school to university life,” said Krystyna Risinger, a participant in the 2001 Future Aztecs Day who is volunteering to provide services this year. “It gave me the perfect opportunity to get a feel for what SDSU is all about. Students will see that the university has a wealth of programs in just about every area of interest, including community involvement; multi-cultural studies, and study abroad opportunities such as international business which won an award as the nation’s best study abroad program.”

Faculty from SDSU’s eight colleges will give presentations about academic programs and many of the 78 majors offered at the university. Campus officials will share information and materials to assist prospective students with their transition to the institution. Student representatives will also be available, answering questions about their organizations and their experiences as an SDSU student.

“Future Aztecs Day is the perfect opportunity for prospective students and parents to understand what the university has to offer them,” said Professor Gene Lamke, director of SDSU’s Freshman Success Programs. “This is the best way to find out if the programs, resources and services will serve their interests and needs.”

Tours of the campus, library, athletic facilities and Aztec Recreation Center will be led by student ambassadors, staff and cheerleaders. Admission to the event and parking is free. For more information about Future Aztecs Day and SDSU, visit www.sdsu.edu/futureaztecsday or call (619) 594-6336.

San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, SDSU has grown to offer bachelor's degrees in 78 areas, master's degrees in 61 areas and doctorates in 14. SDSU's more than 34,000 students participate in academic curricula distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information log on to www.sdsu.edu.

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