The University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech, Ja.) opened its doors for its highly anticipated Open House 2024, welcoming over 2500 students from about 35 high schools along with their parents, and teachers to its Papine campus over a two day period- October 30 & 31.
This year’s Open House was designed as an educational expo, providing a comprehensive glimpse into UTech’s diverse graduate and undergraduate academic programs, campus facilities, and support services, attracting prospective students from across the island. Director of the Student Recruitment Office, Kerry-Ann White, emphasized the event’s significance: “This event is hosted annually since 2010, and our goal remains the same; to connect prospective students with UTech’s academic community and help them make informed decisions about their career paths”.
Empowering Student Decisions and Sparking New Aspirations
For some students, the event reinforced long-standing career interests; for others, it opened doors to fields they have not considered. Romeik Vassel, a CAPE 6th form student from Bridgeport High School, arrived with a passion for Business but left with an additional interest in Communication Arts and Technology. “I saw Communication Studies and I am thinking about it,” he shared, reflecting on the influence of the event.
“Seeing actual robots in action really confirmed my interest in robotics,” shared Balvin Lindsay, a student from Manning’s School, who was particularly captivated by UTech’s engineering and robotics programme.
“I came here with one thing in mind and after speaking with a past student I feel more comfortable knowing that with this degree I have more opportunities” said Port Antonio High’s aspiring fashion designer Candiece McIntyre, noting the increased clarity of her pursuit. Her experience echoed that of many attendees, who solidified their decisions through interactions with UTech staff and alumni.
As each faculty showcased projects, student work, and or provided hands-on activities that illustrate what the programmes offer at the university. Faculty members noted that students were keen to explore various disciplines. “Although we are Chemistry, students are asking about other programmes, Sociology and Law amongst other programmes, so we just direct them accordingly,” said Dr. Alexa Redway, head of the Chemistry Division.
Additionally, Renee Naraysingh, a third-year student in the Faculty of Health Science (FOHS), explained, “This field is broad and flexible, offering multiple career paths. We hope that the interactive displays and information sessions can spark a genuine interest among attendees.” Citing diverse career options available within these fields, like forensic scientist, cybercrime analyst, and research chemist.
Additional Opportunities
The Scholarship Unit at UTech was among the many departments engaging with students, highlighting various scholarship opportunities tailored to specific faculties as well as the PATH Grant. Shevanna Davis, a Scholarship Assistant, encouraged students to take the opportunity seriously: “While Open House is a fun experience, it’s also a chance for students to focus on their career goals and gather essential information about scholarships and financial aid.”
“We are here to make students aware of the financial support available once they transition to tertiary education. This event allows us to connect with prospective students at a crucial time,” said Ricardo Gordon, Student’s Loan Bureau (SLB) Representative, highlighting the marketing benefits of the SLB and other entities.
Open House’s Impact
Ms. Arlene Watson, a teacher at Edwin Allen High School who has been bringing students to the event for over three years, highlighted the positive impact of the Open House “Many of my students have applied and matriculated,” she shared, adding that the event has a strong track record of motivating attendees to actually pursue tertiary education.
Among the teachers present, Kevin Campbell from Manning’s School, praised the event for exposing students to real-world applications of academic programs that they might not encounter in high school. Furthermore, Miss Grayson, a counselor at Denbigh High School, commented “The information and the campus tour were very insightful for both students and teachers. My only suggestion would be to add fans in some of the indoor areas, but overall, it is an impressive experience.”
UTech’s Open House continues to fulfill its mission of guiding students toward successful and fulfilling career paths. “The students are very interested in the event; they like what they are hearing and seeing, and they are enjoying the exhibition,” shared Lamar Rowe, Admissions and Enrolment Management team representative.
“We hope all prospective students make UTech their number one place of study.”
With a robust turnout and overwhelmingly positive feedback, UTech’s Open House proved to be an informative and inspiring experience for all who attended. Through engaging presentations, interactive displays, and open conversations with faculty representatives and alumni, the university remains a trusted starting point for students exploring their next steps.
Reported by: Kris-Ann Beckford & Keiba Gordon