By Kylian Galtier / Staff Writer

Missouri Valley College will welcome students and their families to Valley Experience Day on Oct. 4. The event is designed to showcase the spirit, opportunities and community that define MVC. While the Malcolm Center Gym will serve as the central location, the entire campus will be used for meeting rooms and tours, allowing students and families to explore every aspect of campus life.

Valley Experience Day is a new tradition that debuted in spring 2024. Since then, it has been held each semester and has quickly become one of the college’s biggest events. With both fall and spring sessions, it provides a first impression for prospective students considering joining MVC.

The event highlights both academics and student life through a variety of activities. The day begins with a cheer and dance performance, followed by a welcome from MVC President Joe Parisi. Parents attend a staff and student panel where they can ask questions and hear about campus life. Students take part in faculty-led breakout sessions focusing on academic majors, the Honors College and Greek Life. A campuswide lunch fosters connection, and the afternoon features athletics through games, mini-camps and team visits with coaches.

For current students, faculty and staff, the event is also special because it brings the MVC community together. Every organization, team and department participates, creating a welcoming atmosphere that regularly attracts more than 300 visitors.

Valley Experience Day is especially important because it represents the first impression for prospective students. It provides an opportunity to discover the campus and meet the people who make MVC a community.

“Without a detailed schedule it would be chaos, but when it all comes together, it shows future Vikings how great this place really is,” said Derek Bohnsack, director of admissions and financial aid.

Bohnsack has worked at MVC for 10 years in a variety of roles, including admissions recruiter, assistant wrestling coach and director of financial aid. For him, Valley Experience Day is one of the most exciting events of the year.

“What excites me the most is getting to showcase MVC and how great of a place this is,” Bohnsack said.

While Bohnsack organizes several key admissions events, none are bigger than Valley Experience Day.