University open houses are pivotal in shaping the perceptions of prospective students. One way to make a lasting impression is through well-curated goodie bags. These goodie bags not only provide useful items but also act as a marketing tool, reinforcing the university’s brand and values.
In this guide, we will explore the most effective items to include in a university open house goodie bag, ensuring it’s both practical and memorable.
University open houses provide prospective students with a taste of campus life, academic offerings, and the overall student experience. Offering a goodie bag at these events ensures that visitors leave with a tangible reminder of their visit, fostering positive associations with your institution.
The best university open house goodie bags strike a balance between practicality and fun.
Here are some top ideas for what to include:
Every student loves a good set of stationery. Including branded notebooks, pens, and sticky notes will ensure that students carry a little piece of your university with them to their future study sessions. Stationery items are both practical and long-lasting, making them a staple for university goodie bags.
Sustainability is important to many students, and offering reusable water bottles shows that your university values eco-friendly initiatives. Branded water bottles can be used daily, whether on campus or at home, making them a great addition to any goodie bag.
Including a branded tote bag in your goodie bag is a great way to add value. Students can use these bags to carry books, laptops, or groceries, all while showcasing your university logo. Custom tote bags are practical and environmentally friendly, aligning with the growing preference for reusable products.
In today’s digital age, USB drives are an indispensable item for students. Including a branded USB drive in your goodie bag allows students to save important documents while keeping your university’s name front and center.
Offer students discount vouchers for your campus bookstore, nearby cafes, or other local businesses. These vouchers encourage students to explore their new surroundings and associate positive experiences with your university.
While not as exciting as other items, including informational brochures about your programs, campus life, and scholarship opportunities is essential. These brochures provide students with the necessary details they’ll need to make an informed decision about their future.
Different students have different interests, and customizing your goodie bags to appeal to various groups can make a bigger impact.
For students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), consider including tech gadgets like portable chargers or even branded coding-related tools. Items like these show that your university supports technological advancements and innovation.
Business-minded students may appreciate more professional items like business card holders, planners, or branded portfolios. These items are not only practical but also align with their future career aspirations.
How you distribute and present your goodie bags can enhance the overall experience at your university open house.
Instead of handing out goodie bags at the entrance, consider distributing them after key presentations or campus tours. This ensures that students engage fully with the event before receiving their bag, making the experience more impactful.
To make your goodie bags more engaging, consider including a stamp card that encourages students to visit multiple stations or attend specific sessions during the open house. Once they collect enough stamps, they can exchange the card for a goodie bag, adding an element of interactivity to the event.
Adding a personal touch, like including a handwritten welcome note or letting students pick an additional item based on their interests, can make the goodie bag experience more memorable. Personalized elements help students feel valued and connected to your institution.
A university open house goodie bag is a simple yet effective way to leave a lasting impression on prospective students. By including practical, branded, and fun items, you can create a positive and memorable experience that keeps your university top of mind. Whether you’re offering tech gadgets for STEM students or eco-friendly items for sustainability-conscious individuals, a well-thought-out goodie bag can be a powerful tool in your student recruitment efforts.
Contact us to discuss and prepare your open house goodie bags!