Accepted Students Day draws record crowd

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed more than 300 prospective students and 1,000 visitors to Accepted Students Day (ASD) on March 29, the largest ASD event since the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees came to explore campus, talk to current students and faculty, take a mock class, and contemplate enrolling at Eastern for the fall 2025 semester.

Families were invited to participate in panels with faculty and students, a presentation on financial aid, and tours of campus, residence halls, and student services.

“The question for everyone is: do they see themselves at Eastern?” said Eastern President Karim Ismaili in a welcome address. “The fact that (students and families) are here indicates that they’re excited about understanding our university.”

Following Ismaili’s speech, students participated in 20 mock classes spanning many of Eastern’s diverse programs, including education, environmental earth science, communication, film, and theatre, among others. Meanwhile, parents were able to ask current students and faculty members questions about the university and campus life.

“It’s exciting to see how big Eastern has become,” said Admissions Counselor Alexandra Mitchell. She expressed pride in the strong turnout and enthusiasm of the attendees, citing she was “excited to see students celebrate their acceptance.”

Accepted students Aiden Colaianni and Steven Lodge highlighted their first impressions of Eastern. “Campus is pretty beautiful,” noted Colaianni, with Lodge adding that it has a “nice and welcoming feel.” Another student, Xavier, commented on the energy he noticed: “The campus is pretty clean, open, and vibrant — and the guides are very enthusiastic.”

Parents were equally engaged at the event. “Everyone has been kind, friendly, and nice,” said Nancy, the mother of an accepted student. “I’m looking forward to seeing more,” she said, adding that it was also her first time at Eastern.

The event also featured a resource fair representing key campus departments and offices, such as Admissions, the Academic Success Center, Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Athletics, and the Unity Wing. Families also toured first-year residence halls to get a better sense of student housing and community life at Eastern.

“Being able to showcase — as President Ismaili said — ‘the best of who we are,’ is a great way for prospective students to understand that Eastern is right for them,” said Niti Pandey, dean of education and professional studies. She highlighted the dedication of the faculty and staff who made the event possible. “Our future students see that. To have families see that is the best promotion Eastern can offer.”

Families departed campus with improved clarity and confidence in their college decisions. “People are engaged,” said Ismaili, pointing out the amount of interaction between staff and families at the event. “I feel a sense of anticipation and excitement.”