Second fall Open House sees consistent attendance increase
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor
Naika Norvil, an admissions tour guide and pre-surgical technology student from Chambersburg, leads a tour during a Nov. 2 Open House at Penn College.
A beautiful autumn day welcomed 1,740 prospective students and guests to the second fall Open House at Pennsylvania College of Technology, a 7% year-to-year increase in attendance.
The college’s main campus, along with the Schneebeli Earth Science Center and the Lumley Aviation Center, hosted 592 prospective undergraduate and graduate students. While the majority of guests were from Pennsylvania, 110 prospective students traveled from out of state: Connecticut (6), Delaware (3), Massachusetts (2), Maryland (12), Michigan (1), North Carolina (1), New Jersey (49), New York (23), Ohio (5) and Virginia (8).
“The November Open House greeted students with beautiful weather,” said Claire F. Milliken, coordinator of admissions events & communications. “We had a large crowd on campus, and every building was bustling with activity. Thank you to our staff, faculty and volunteers for assisting students and guests with directional support, answering questions and promoting such a welcoming environment."
Following check-in at one of the three campuses, guests used a provided agenda guide to plot a course for the day. An academic exploration fair allowed students to check out various programs, guided academic tours provided an opportunity to meet with faculty and check out lab spaces, and “Labs in Action” offered a chance to see live demonstrations and participate in interactive activities. Attendees could also visit The Dr. Welch Workshop: A Makerspace at Penn College, chat with staff at multiple resource offices, explore student clubs and other on-campus events, and have lunch on main campus at Capital Eatery or Keystone Dining Room.
According to Milliken, 45 attendees have already completed a Penn College application.
Future open houses are scheduled for Feb. 21, April 26 and July 18. Visit the Open House page for more information.
Fall colors welcome prospective students and their guests as they travel past the Breuder Advanced Technology and Health Sciences Center (left).
Loren R. Bruckhart, instructor of collision repair, highlights a highly equipped lab.
Alaina S. Myers, a welding & fabrication engineering technology student from Hanover, files metal Wildcat logos during a “Labs in Action” demonstration. Myers is part of the college’s American Welding Society student chapter, which set up a table to greet students in the Lycoming Engines Metal Trades Center.
Alana N. Delosier, regional admissions recruiter, and Nick W. Henning, enrollment counselor, provide a welcoming presence.
Students in the construction management major share their experience.
In the Admissions Office, Audriana L. Empet, director of admissions, chats with a family.