The University of Utah Asia Campus welcomed more than 400 middle and high school students and their families to campus on May 30 for Discover the U, the campus’s signature experiential admissions event designed to bring future students face-to-face with university life.
Designed to help prospective students explore their academic interests and experience university life firsthand, the event offered sample lectures, interactive activity booths, student and faculty engagement opportunities, and a glimpse into the vibrant community that defines the Asia Campus.
Visitors began the day by attending faculty-led lectures across a range of programs spanning business, communication, engineering, film, games, psychology, urban ecology, and more.
The lecture sessions provided attendees with a realistic look at the classroom experience and academic expectations of a U.S. university education.
For many students, the opportunity to interact directly with current students was one of the most valuable parts of the event.
Throughout the afternoon, activity booths transformed the campus plaza into a lively space where visitors could ask questions, learn about student life, and explore future academic pathways.
Unlike previous years, lecture sessions and activity booths were offered separately, allowing participants to spend more time exploring both academic programs and campus life.
Jiyoon Son, a student from Chungnam Samsung High School who is interested in studying psychology, said the event helped her better understand both the major and the student experience.
“I learned about the University of Utah Asia Campus through my teacher and decided to attend because I’ve always been interested in studying abroad and psychology. Listening to a professor’s lecture helped me better understand the field, but hearing directly from current students about their experiences was especially valuable.”
One of the most popular attractions was the series of hands-on departmental activities, where visitors were encouraged to experience each discipline beyond the classroom.
At the Film & Media Arts booth, students experimented with professional filmmaking equipment and explored the creative side of media production.
Beyond academics, attendees also learned about opportunities to engage with the campus’s global community. Student Affairs representatives introduced international programs, study abroad opportunities, and student support services that help students build a truly global university experience.
Student clubs also brought energy and excitement to the event. Visitors participated in interactive activities hosted by student organizations, including the Utah Devils baseball club, offering a glimpse into the vibrant extracurricular life available at the Asia Campus.
While many attendees explored opportunities for involvement outside the classroom, they were also eager to learn how the university supports students beyond graduation.
Representatives from the Career and Internship Development Center (CIDC) introduced visitors to internship opportunities, career preparation resources, and global pathways available to students throughout their academic journey.
The event also highlighted the broader campus experience through student clubs, leadership organizations, Student Affairs programs, and information about the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.
Outside, the campus came alive with red-and-white activity tents, student ambassadors, and families exploring the grounds together.
Participants also enjoyed the festive atmosphere at the event’s outdoor food zone, where students and families relaxed and experienced the welcoming campus community.
The combination of academics, student engagement, and hands-on experiences created an atmosphere that remained energetic throughout the day.
“More than 400 students and parents filled the campus, demonstrating strong interest in Discover the U,” said Andrew Wesselmann, Associate Director of Admissions at the University of Utah Asia Campus. “Throughout the event, there was a great sense of energy and enthusiasm as participants actively engaged in lectures, visited activity booths, and had meaningful conversations with our current students. We hope the experience helped students explore their interests and envision their future on a global stage.”
As the day came to a close, visitors left with more than brochures and admissions information. They left with more than information about a university—they left with a clearer sense of where their interests could take them and what their future might look like as members of the U community.