One of the world’s most famous pancake makers will be flipping out today for would-be students of the University of Aberdeen.
James Provan – a Computing Science student at Aberdeen – found fame when his internet movie of him making his favourite snack of pancakes proved a major hit worldwide.
Today, the 23-year-old will be firing up the frying pan once again for thousands of prospective students who are descending on the University’s King’s College campus for the annual Open Day.
Pancake tossing by James – whose home video has been seen by millions of people around the world – is just one attraction arranged for the visitors who are considering studying at Aberdeen in September 2007.
Live lunchtime performances by local bands have been lined up for the Open Day which is also open to late applicants for 2006 entry.
Robin Harper, the Rector for the University of Aberdeen, will also be visiting the campus meeting potential students for what could be the University’s busiest Open Day yet with, over 4,500 prospective students and other visitors expected.
Speaking ahead of today’s Open Day, Mr Harper said he was looking forward to the event. He said: “The Open Day is an ideal opportunity for me to meet with students who I will be representing and working alongside over the next two years.
“The Open Day plays a vital role in showcasing the University and this year’s event promises to be as successful as ever. I would recommend people to come along and find out what the University of Aberdeen has to offer.”
James Provan, who is from Aberdeen and is about to go into his second year at the University of Aberdeen, added: “I’ve really enjoyed my time studying here at the University of Aberdeen. The technology at the institution is excellent – students have access to great computers, fantastic lecture theatres and notes available in computerised format.
“I have loved every minute of my Computing Science course so far and I am really looking forward to starting my second year in September. I have no hesitation in recommending the University of Aberdeen to prospective students.”
This year’s Open Day promises to be the best yet with a packed programme of events ranging from presentations and departmental activities, to exhibitions, demonstrations and campus tours.
In a first in the Open Day’s seven-year history, there will be a live performances from two of Aberdeen’s most talented acts when Edgar Prais and Steven Milne from The Little Kicks take to the stage.
These acts are in big demand due to their energetic live performances and both have supported headlining acts throughout the UK. They will each perform 30 minute sets in the University’s diner, Zeste, between 10.30am and 11am and 2pm and 2.30pm. Steven Milne will also do a set between 12pm and 12.30pm.
To enhance the carnival setting, there will also be a barbecue and ice-cream on offer at Zeste. The live gigs complement the existing line-up of talented musicians who perform at the Open Day every year including piper Hamish Wood and fiddler Raemond Jappy. There will also be performances by musicians on the trumpet, piano, organ, and steel pans.
Northsound Radio will be on campus to broadcast their live morning show from 10am – 1pm where presenters will talk to students to capture the atmosphere of the day.
Visitors are welcome to attend the Open Day on their own or as part of a school party. Parents, teachers and guidance staff are also invited along. There will be a Chill Out Zone especially for adults to enjoy some quiet time during the busy schedule. Selectors and other staff will be visiting the Chill Out Zone throughout the day to chat informally to parents and teachers.
Further information on the University Open Day is available by logging on to: www.abdn.ac.uk/openday
For further information on the University’s degree programmes and other courses, contact Student Recruitment and Admissions on 0800 027 1495 or email: sras@abdn.ac.uk