With classes beginning for the fall semester on August 19, Lander University held its final Freshman Orientation July 23-24. Orientation is required for all new students to ease the transition into college life by acquainting students with all Lander has to offer academically, culturally, and socially.
The incoming Bearcats had a full two-day agenda, including small group sessions on various University services, campus tours led by their orientation leaders, and meetings with executive leadership and faculty from their chosen majors. Additionally, there was time set aside for fun and bonding with fellow incoming freshmen.
Jonathan Walker, a senior business major from Mountville, shared his experience as an orientation leader. “I chose to be an orientation leader three years ago because I wanted to be like my (freshman year) orientation leader, Katie Wagner, who left a profound impact on me. I realized that I, too, could make an impact on other students,” Walker said.
Incoming freshman Will Reid commented on the size and beauty of the campus. “I come from a really small high school, so this is going to be a change,” he said. “It is not too big, though.” Reid likes the fact that he is only a couple of hours away from his hometown of Rock Hill. He plans to major in business and sports management.
New Bearcat Adanya Nicoson, from Cave Creek, Arizona intends to join the women’s rugby team. “It is beautiful here and I am enjoying orientation,” she said adding that she plans to study business at Lander.
Hailey Davis, a freshman from Gilbert, said orientation “has been a good experience and very informative.” She plans to major in exercise science and physical therapy.
First-year students who have arranged on-campus housing will move into their assigned residence halls on August 14-15, according to their designated timeslots. Returning upperclassmen will arrive August 16-17.
To learn more about the student move-in process or explore residential living options at Lander University, go online to www.lander.edu/housing.