Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
TRU Kamloops, Campus Activity Centre

Registration is now open! Sign up today!

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At Thompson Rivers University, we're opening our doors and want to invite you to spend the day with us! Whether you're considering TRU for your education or you're a community member looking to get to know your local university, there's something for everyone at Open House.

If you have questions about Open House, please connect with the Future Students Office (futurestudents@tru.ca or 250-828-5006).

What to expect

Featuring over 100 booths, displays, and experiences, you’ll find everything you want to know about TRU at Open House. Not a future TRU student? We’d still love to show you around campus. Connect with the TRU community, participate in hands-on activities, grab lunch, and win prizes at TRU Open House.

9 a.m. — Check-in

Meet us at Open House Headquarters

9:30 a.m. — Kickoff

Open House is meant to be informative, but also fun. What better way to start the day than music, TRU merch, and free coffee and treats.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Open House Experiences

Curious about a specific program at TRU? Want a chance to explore our buildings and learning spaces? Faculty will be running interactive activities all across campus. There’s an experience (or several!) for everyone.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Fun Zone

Stop by the Fun Zone for activities for all ages. Grab some cotton candy, take a picture with Wolfie, see Uncle Chris the Clown, and more!

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Campus Tours

Explore our beautiful campus on a guided tour led by a current TRU student.

10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. — Food Trucks

Take a break for lunch at one of the food trucks on campus for the day.

2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. — Student Panel

Hear from our current students as they answer your questions about life at TRU. Ensure you’ve registered for your opportunity to submit your questions.

2:30 p.m. — Grand Prize Draw

Stay for the student panel and grand prize draw. Prizes include a full semester’s tuition credit, AirPods, TRU merch prize packs, and more!

Open House experiences

Check out our detailed schedule of tours, faculty offerings, and other Open House experiences not to be missed! Click on a faculty to expand and see all their events for the day.

Don't forget lunch! Food trucks from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Campus Commons

Fun Zone

All activities available from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages
  • Uncle Chris the Clown
  • Inflatable curling
  • Family scavenger hunt
  • TRU colouring sheets
  • Wolfie temporary tattoos
  • Popcorn and cotton candy
  • Games to win prizes

Future Students Office

Application station

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Ready to apply to TRU for Fall 2024? Applications are free at the Open House Application Station!

Separation Preparation: How Parents and Guardians Can Support Their Future Students

10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. | All ages

Do you have a future student in your life exploring their post-secondary options? Knowing how to best support them through the process can be tricky. Join Kyri Alves, Manager of Student Recruitment, as she walks you through the future student cycle, what to expect from your student's post-secondary search, and shares when and how your guidance is impactful.

Discover TRU

11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. | All ages

Are you a future student looking to learn more about TRU? Hear from one of our Future Student Advisors about TRU's highlights!

Faculty of Adventure, Culinary, and Tourism

Adventure Studies

GearUp: Equipment Bay Tour

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Embark on an informative journey guided by experienced faculty and equipment bay attendants. This session grants guests exclusive access to the Adventure Studies Equipment library, unveiling the tools that will fuel their exciting educational voyage.

Reach for the Heights: Rope Access Demonstration

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Take your campus exploration to new heights. Watch upper-level students and faculty showcase rope access techniques through exciting rappelling and ascending demonstrations at dramatic campus locations.

RescueQuest: Avalanche Beacon Search

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Dive into the world of search and recovery techniques in this session led by expert Terry Palechuk and a team of skilled students. Open House guests are invited to participate, honing their skills with avalanche transceiver beacons for a hands-on experience like no other.

Showcase of Adventure

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join our multimedia show hosted by current diploma and degree students. Get ready for cool equipment, mind-blowing videos, a peek into the past with a Time Capsule, and don't forget to bring your questions and excitement to chat with our students!

Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts Exploration: Behind the Scenes of Our Kitchen and Lab Facilities

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join the Culinary Arts faculty for a tour of kitchen and lab spaces. Learn about the facilities, programs, and what it's like to be a professional chef!

Gourmet Delights: Culinary Arts Demonstration

11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. | All ages

Culinary Arts faculty will be preparing a special treat for guests! Who likes beef bourguignon? You won't want to miss out.

What is Retail Meat Processing?

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Did you know TRU has the only Retail Meat Processing program in BC? Stop in and chat with faculty to learn about this program and career.

Tourism Management

Exploring Tourism: Meet the Tourism Management Team and Students

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

From local to global, our tourism programs connect students to place, culture, and people in meaningful ways. Take advantage of this meet & greet opportunity to learn about the field of tourism from the experts!

Faculty of Arts

Faculty of Arts Bingo

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Find your bingo sheet in the Open House swag bag. Visit all the Faculty of Arts bingo sqaures and be entered to win an iPad!

Anthropology, Archaeology, Sociology, Criminology

Unveiling Social Transformation: Sociology, Criminology, and Anthropology

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Dive into the intricate fabric of societal transformation in this interactive opportunity, where the realms of social justice, criminology, and anthropology intertwine. Uncover the roots of inequality, criminal dynamics, and cultural influences, fostering a holistic perspective on the pursuit of a just and equitable world.

Communications and Visual Arts

Artistic Media: Interactive Showcase of Communication and Visual Arts

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Discover your creative sanctuary at our interactive table, a haven curated by the Communications and Visual Arts department. Immerse yourself in the world of media with cutting-edge gear or unleash your artistic prowess using an array of drawing materials – a dynamic space where innovation and imagination collide.

The Art of Visual Storytelling

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join us for an engaging opportunity that unveils the magic of photo editing, offers an exclusive peek into our state-of-the-art photo labs, and guides you through our professional podcast studio. Whether you're drawn to captivating images or captivating narratives, this interactive experience is tailored to ignite your creative spark.

English

Shakespearean Delights

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Immerse yourself in the world of the Bard at this unique opportunity. Enjoy a cinematic journey with classic Shakespeare films, have a playful time constructing your own Shakespearean insults, and delve into the pages of history as you explore copies of his iconic plays. Drop in to experience the timeless allure of Shakespeare's wit and words.

Geography and Environmental Studies

Geographic & Environmental Trivia Day

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join the ultimate Geographic and Environmental Trivia Extravaganza! Test your knowledge of the world's wonders, sustainability, and natural phenomena for a chance to win exciting prizes while exploring the beauty and complexity of our planet.

Philosophy, History, and Politics

Visions & Voice: Uniting Philosophy, History, and Politics

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Welcome to our interactive drop-in hub, where the captivating realms of philosophy, history, and politics converge. Delve into the past, question the present, and shape the future through immersive displays and activities highlighting our undergraduate journal, innovative Queer activism course projects, the lively Philosophy Club, ethical debates in the Ethics Bowl, and TRU's empowering Politics Program – all ready to inspire and engage curious minds.

Psychology

fNIRS: The Human Brain in Action

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | All ages

See how functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy captures brain activity in real-time during task performance.

Gaze Insight: Exploring Human Attention with Eye Tracking Technology

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Current TRU psychology students will demonstrate how naturalistic human eye gaze data is collected and analyzed to better understand how the visual attention of experts differs from that of novices.

Life is But a Dream

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. | All ages

We don’t always realize it, but our perceptions are created and not necessarily factual or true. In this presentation we will explore the topic of perception, and why you shouldn’t necessarily “believe your own eyes.”

Theater

Theatre: Theatre Photo Booth

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Would you like to star in the next big production? Well, you can pretend you're the leading actor for the next few minutes. Dress up with props and costumes at the Theatre Photo Booth.

Theater Tours

11:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:15pm | All ages

Get an exclusive tour of TRU’s Actors Workshop Theatre facilities including studio space, classroom, and backstage areas.
Please note: all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics

Business Simulation Competition

11:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. | 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Simulate real-world business scenarios and challenges in a competitive setting. By participating in this event, students will gain practical experience in decision-making, strategic planning, financial management, and team collaboration.

Talk to a Lawyer

1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Groups will discuss an individual’s legal rights and obligations in a variety of legal scenarios.

EconoGaming Showcase: Interactive Economic Concepts on the Big Screen

10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Dive into the world of economics through an engaging session of EconoGaming Showcase! Experience interactive Moblab games and immersive simulations on a large computer monitor, as we bring economic concepts, like Tragedy of the Commons, to life through innovative gameplay.

Ignite Creativity: Design Thinking Sprint

10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Ages 12+

This immersive experience fosters problem-solving skills through hands-on activities and rapid prototyping. Benefits include skill development, collaborative learning, personal growth, and insight into our institution.

Buy, Hold, or Sell: Equity Analysis

11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. | Ages 12+

Your team will analyze a company’s financial performance and then make a buy, hold, or sell recommendation.

Company SOS: Financial Statement Analysis

11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

You will analyze a company experiencing financial distress and then recommend a plan of action.

PosterPerfect Marketing: A Product Development Game

11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Ages 12+

Students have the option to work individually or in groups. They will develop a poster for a new product. Key marketing concepts will be explained throughout the game. To enhance their creativity, markers/pens, posters/large paper sheets, and sketching paper will be provided.

Faculty of Education and Social Work

Education and Social Work Shark Tank

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Get ready for an exciting session where student ambassadors from the Faculty of Education and Social Work showcase their programs in snappy 2–3-minute pitches, competing for your vote. Ask questions, cast your vote, and enter a draw for fantastic prizes!

Meet the Faculty: Education and Social Work Mixer

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Savor delicious refreshments while mixing and mingling with a vibrant array of faculty members from the Faculty of Education and Social Work. It's your chance to snack, chat, and connect in a laid-back and lively atmosphere!

Using Robotics to Teach Storytelling

10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | All ages

Come and explore new ways of teaching and learning for an ever-changing world. Here we will use robotics to learn stories and create our own.

Faculty of Law

Ask a Law Professor

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Grab some refreshments and have a seat in the atrium as you chat with Faculty members. Feel free to ask them about their research, how the law works, what they teach, and what makes our Juris Doctor program unique.

Law School Tours

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Visit our TRU Law Ambassador team in the atrium of the law school, and request a private tour of the law school. We'll showcase the state-of-the-art classrooms, vast array of study spaces, and private law library and reading room.

Life of a Law Student

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Grab some refreshments and have a seat in the atrium as you chat with current students. Feel free to ask questions about what they are learning, what to expect in law school, and what path in life led them to join our Juris Doctor program.

School of Nursing

Nursing Building Tour and Exploration

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Tour the newly opened Nursing Population Health (NPH) building and explore the simulation technology nursing students use to supplement their learning. Experiences may include adult and pediatric simulation demonstrations, and faculty will be present to answer your questions.

School of Nursing Open House

12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Experience the future of healthcare education at our Nursing Building Open House! Tour our cutting-edge facilities, including advanced simulation labs, meet our expert faculty, and discover how our innovative programs are preparing the next generation of compassionate and skilled nurses.

Faculty of Science

Physics and Chemistry Magic Show

11:00 a.m. to 11:30am | 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. | 1:00 p.m. to 1:30pm | All ages

Prepare to be amazed as the laws of physics and the wonders of chemistry come to life in our enchanting magic show! Witness mesmerizing demonstrations that defy expectations, revealing the captivating science behind everyday magic.

Architectural and Engineering Technology

Architectural Visions in 3D: Hands-On Exploration of Design Software

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Step into the realm of architectural innovation with our hands-on session using 3D architectural software. Immerse yourself in the creative process as you meet talented Architectural Engineering and Technology students and witness their exceptional work come to life in stunning virtual designs.

Astronomy

Solar Stargazing: Exploring the Radiant Sun

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join us for an opportunity for Solar Stargazing at TRU's observatory. Peer through telescopes equipped with solar filters and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of solar flares, sunspots, and the sun's dynamic beauty.

Biological Sciences

Zoology: who? (Part I)

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Delve into the fascinating realm of zoology through our hands-on activity while you gather clues! Explore the wonders of the animal kingdom as you interact with live specimens, study their behavior, and uncover the intricate web of life that surrounds us.

Botany: where? (Part II)

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Discover the captivating world of plants through our engaging hands-on botany activity while you gather clues! Explore the secrets of plant life and deepen your understanding of nature's green wonders.

Microbiology: why? (Part III)

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Plunge into the invisible realm of microorganisms with our hands-on microbiology activity while you gather clues! Using microscopes and lab techniques, uncover the hidden world of bacteria, fungi, and more, gaining insights into their vital roles in everything from health to ecosystem dynamics.

Chemistry

Hydrogen Rockets

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Experience the thrill of hands-on rocketry with our Hydrogen Rocket Activity! Launch a rocket powered by hydrogen and oxygen gas, learning about chemistry and propulsion while seeing how far your rocket can fly.

Computing Science

AI Unveiled: Exploring Chatbot Magic and Beyond

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Embark on an enlightening journey through the realms of Artificial Intelligence and Chatbot technology with our engaging activity! Explore the inner workings of AI algorithms and delve into the capabilities of ChatGPT, witnessing firsthand how machines can understand and generate human-like text.

AppVenture: Journey into the World of Mobile App Development

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Dive into the dynamic world of app development with our hands-on activity! Learn how to bring your digital ideas to life as we discuss coding, design, and creating functional mobile applications, gaining valuable skills for the digital age.

GameCraft: The Art of Computer Game Creation

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Dive into the exciting realm of computer game development and gameplay in our interactive session! Learn about the art of designing, coding, and refining games, and then put your skills to the test as you enjoy immersive gaming experiences.

Engineering

InnovateX Showcase: Engineering Student Prototypes Unveiled

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Discover innovation in action during our Engineering Showcase session. Immerse yourself in a dynamic display of student projects and prototypes, demonstrating the creative prowess and technical excellence of our aspiring engineers.

Reality Fusion Quest: Immersive Adventures in 3D, VR, and AR Gaming

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Step into an immersive world of excitement with our interactive 3D game, enhanced by the magic of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Explore captivating environments and engage in thrilling adventures as you seamlessly blend the digital and real worlds.

RoboRevolution: Robotics Live Demo

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Experience the future of technology with our captivating robotics live demo. Watch as robots come to life, showcasing their intricate movements, intelligent decision-making, and the potential they hold for revolutionizing various industries.

Geology

Rock Chronicles: Unveiling Earth's Tales Through Fossils and Minerals

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Embark on a geological adventure exploring the ancient stories of our planet through rocks and fossils. Dig into the past as you unearth treasures, decipher the Earth's history, and uncover the secrets held within these geological wonders.

Mathematics and Statistics

Mathematical Marvels: Unveiling Patterns through Conway's Sprouts Games

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Dive into the world of mathematical exploration with our hands-on session featuring Conway's Sprouts games. Engage in strategic gameplay, cultivate critical thinking, and discover the beauty of mathematical patterns as you immerse yourself in this unique experience.

Natural Resource Science

Natural Resource Science: From Fisheries to Grasslands

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Explore the intricate ecosystems from aquatic life to expansive grasslands, discovering the delicate balance that sustains our environment in this interactive activity and demonstration.

Physics

Phantoms and Physics: A Haunted Physics Lab

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Ages 12+

Dare you enter the realm of the Haunted Physics Lab? Prepare to be astounded by high voltage feats, eerie levitation, object antics, and ghostly apparitions. Witness the spine-chilling journey that students undertake, emerging four years later with coveted Physics Degrees – an experience that's undeniably and uniquely hair-raising!

Unveiling the Unseen: Exploring Microrealms and Gravity's Secrets in Student Physics Research

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Embark on a captivating physics session showcasing remarkable student research endeavors. Delve into the microscopic realm through the Atomic Force Microscope, reveal the invisible with Optical-based Computer Assisted Tomography, and experience the excitement of a groundbreaking experiment aboard Canada's low gravity airplane.

Respiratory Therapy

Breathe Well: Hands-On Learning and Live Demos in Respiratory Care

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Immerse yourself in the world of respiratory therapy through our engaging activity! Navigate through hands-on skill stations and live demonstrations, mastering essential techniques to promote optimal lung health for patients in hospitals and community.

Veterinary Technology

Diagnostic discoveries in Veterinary Technology

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Embark on a hands-on journey into the world of veterinary technology. Explore real-world cases, learn to interpret medical images, and engage in interactive activities that unveil the crucial role of technology in diagnosing and treating animals.

Vet Tech Building Tour

1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Join our amazing faculty, staff and students as we show you a little behind the scenes of the wonderful world of Veterinary Technology.

School of Trades and Technology

Trades and Technology Tour

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. | All Ages

Acquire the tools you need to succeed. Explore state-of-the-art workshops and labs where craftsmanship comes to life, and witness the convergence of skill, innovation, and real-world application that defines our trade-focused education.

Trades Open House

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | All ages

Experience a hands-on exploration of a multitude of trades through our engaging drop-in activity. From wielding the art of welding and carpentry to mastering the precision of electrical work and instrumentation, delve into the worlds of millwright, refrigeration, plumbing, horticulture, power engineering, water treatment, automotive, and heavy-duty mechanics, all in one dynamic and immersive environment.

Faculty of Student Development

Indigenous Student Services: Drumming and Beading

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Stop by Cplul'kw'ten, the Gathering Place, for drumming and beading activities with the Indigenous Student Services team.

Indigenous Songs

12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. | 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Attend a performance by the Learning from the Land Initiative choir as they share their Indigenous songs.

Intercultural Learning: Intercultural Cuisine

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

At TRU, we are dedicated to fostering equity, inclusion, and meaningful belonging. Participate in intercultural learning activities and sample diverse cultural foods with our Intercultural Learning team.

Learn about Student Services

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | All ages

Curious about the supports available for students? Stop by their booths at the resource fair. Learn more about Health & Wellness, Academic Supports, Counselling Services, the Writing Centre, and Multi-faith Chaplains.

Directions and parking

Check-in at Open House Headquarters begins at 9 a.m. outside of the Campus Activity Centre on the TRU Kamloops campus. This will also be the same location for the Open House Kickoff starting at 9:30 a.m.

Parking is free on campus for Open House. Since it’s a Saturday, you’re welcome to park anywhere you want (except for reserved parking spots), but we suggest parking in Lot N or H. Watch for signs and volunteers when you arrive on campus. View the TRU parking map here.

View Campus Map

Where to stay and things to do in Kamloops

If you’re traveling from outside of Kamloops for Open House and looking for a place to stay, there are a number of great hotels located within walking distance or a short drive from campus. View the participating hotels providing a special rate for Open House attendees by clicking the button below.

Come share the experience and play like a local. Learn more about local activities, events and attractions at Tourism Kamloops.

Come join us for a TRUly unique experience!

Registration is now open so sign up today and join us for our Open House!

Register now