By The Keystone Newspaper On Feb. 7, 2025, KU hosted its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Accepted Students Breakfast, welcoming prospective students to campus for an immersive and informative experience.
By Katelynn Humbles
On Feb. 7, 2025, KU hosted its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Accepted Students Breakfast, welcoming prospective students to campus for an immersive and informative experience. The event provided a glimpse into the academic and social life at KU, with opportunities for attendees to interact with current students, professors, and staff while enjoying a catered breakfast. Held as part of KU’s efforts to connect with incoming and undecided students, the event highlighted the many opportunities available within the CLAS and showcased the university’s commitment to student success.
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
The morning began with a welcome from CLAS Dean Laurie McMillan, who addressed the gathered students and their families. In her speech, McMillan emphasized the importance of a liberal arts education and the value of studying within a diverse and dynamic academic environment. She spoke about the broad range of disciplines offered by the college and encouraged students to take advantage of the many opportunities KU provides to help them explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for a successful future. Her remarks reassured students that KU is a place where they can thrive both academically and personally.
Following this address, Assistant Dean Madeline “Maddie” Anthes took the stage to offer guidance to both committed and undecided students. She provided insight into the wide variety of programs within the CLAS, including anthropology, political science, psychology, sociology, and many more. Anthes encouraged students to focus on what truly matters to them when making decisions about their education.
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
“Take the advice you want and leave behind the stuff you don’t,” she said. “That’s kind of a piece of advice for life, but when you’re looking around campus, think about what matters to you—what your priorities are, what matters to you in a college experience—and see how [it] fits what you’re hoping for.”
One of the highlights of the event was a student panel featuring Jack Schembri, Cheyenne Friscia, Kathryn “Katie” Gabriel, and Maggie Beatty. These current KU students shared their experiences at KU, discussing topics such as coursework, extracurricular involvement, faculty support, and campus culture. They provided prospective students with firsthand accounts of what it is like to be part of the KU community, offering advice on adjusting to college life and making the most of the university experience. Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and hear perspectives about student life, making the panel an engaging and informative segment of the event.
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
After the panel discussion, prospective students were given the opportunity to further explore KU’s campus and academic offerings through four different activity options. Some students chose to take a guided tour of Old Main to learn more about the university’s history and resources. Others opted for a tour of Boehm Science Center, where they could explore the state-of-the-art facilities that support students in the sciences.
For those interested in a more interactive experience, two engaging academic sessions were offered. Dr. Tony W. H. Wong led a presentation titled Have Fun with Mathematics, which showcased the exciting and unexpected ways math plays a role in everyday life.
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
Meanwhile, Dr. Michael A. Davis, a professor of geography, hosted a unique geography-inspired roleplaying game, allowing students to engage in a hands-on learning experience that highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of geography and its real-world applications. These activities provided prospective students with a taste of KU’s academic environment and the opportunities for hands-on learning that sets KU apart.
The CLAS Accepted Students Breakfast provided more than just information, it offered future students a firsthand look at the academic community they could soon be part of. Through conversations with faculty, staff, and peers, attendees gained insight into KU’s diverse programs and the opportunities that shape a well-rounded education. More importantly, the event showed that KU supports students in their ambitions, encourages them to explore new ideas, and gives them the tools to succeed. Whether students left with a firm decision or a deeper understanding of their options, the event served as an important step in their journey toward higher education.