Picture Perfect: International Student Move-in Day!
A bright sunny day on the 22nd of August, 2012 in Rochester, NY . . .
The campus was abuzz (quite literally with all the bees around!) with excitement to welcome the international students coming in on 22 August, and the rest of the freshmen, the next day on 23 August. About fifteen undergraduate International Student Mentors gathered in Susan B Anthony Hall, along with staff from the Admissions, Study Abroad and International Services offices, eagerly awaiting the arrival of incoming international students. Amidst the hustle and bustle of people, a few nervous yet smiling students entered, laden with bags. A sigh of relief mixed with a feeling of excitement ran through me – the day we had eagerly waited for the entire summer had finally arrived and the Class of 2016, transfer students and exchange students from all over the world were trickling in to campus. Wow, time was flying. I was a junior, and welcoming new students and I still clearly remembered the day I had come in – a bright eyed freshmen with shining hopes to make this place my home for the rest of my undergraduate education! Brimming with energy and smiles, we set about working – the incoming students had to be ticked off our list, registered with the ISO and helped get their room keys.
Throughout the day, we helped orient the students with the campus, field questions by students and parents alike, and help them move-in.
The students were later welcomed in the evening with a warm reception by the university. It comprised of a wonderful performance by the Midnight Ramblers, inspiring speeches, interesting facts about the international students in the incoming class and great food!
Above: The Midnight Ramblers!
Above: Molly Jolliff, International Student Counsellor welcoming the students!
Above: A few of the International Student Mentors!
Above: Orientation 2016 staff!
Above: Dean Burdick, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid, welcomes the international students!
Above: International students' reception!
Above: The International Services Office staff!
It was a perfect end to a long day when the International Student Mentors interacted with their mentees and the students mingled amongst each other in several group activities! Their eyes shining with excitement and curiosity gleaming in their faces, the students trooped back to their dorms to set forth on their journey of college exploration . . . and oh, begin Orientation!
I wish the Class of 2016, the international students, transfer students and exchange students a great semester ahead!