If you happened to see crowds of confused young people wandering around campus this week, you probably got a glimpse of freshmen orientation.
Earlier this week, new students participated in various activities to assist in their adjustment to college life at The University of Memphis.
According to Stephanie Lovins, student relations and orientation secretary, approximately 220 freshmen attended the session Monday and Tuesday.
Incoming freshman and art major, Jennifer Marston said she already feels at home after the second day of orientation Tuesday.
“It’s very helpful,” said Marston. “I’m already getting familiar with the campus.”
The two-day orientation consists of lectures and workshops for both students and parents. Students register for classes and are provided with a student I.D.
Individuals can choose which workshops to attend — from information on Study Abroad programs to advice on applying for scholarships. Sessions also provide tips on financial aid and career counseling.
The first day of orientation begins at 7:30 a.m. with check-in and concludes with a pool party at 10 p.m. Students then spend the night at Richardson Towers.
The second day is less rigorous for the incoming freshmen. Students attend academic advising sessions and register for classes. According to Malinda McDaniel, director of student orientation, activities conclude around 2:30 p.m.
Creston Lynch, senior elementary education major, is one of 19 guides who help new students during orientation. Lynch said that much of the reason for his participation in the sessions is his experience as an incoming freshman.
“I remember my experience (at orientation),” said Lynch. “It was such a positive one that I wanted to be a part of it.”
Orientation also gives parents of new students the opportunity to see what The University is like.
Vicky Wright of Jackson, Tenn., attended orientation with her son Monday and Tuesday. Wright said the representatives and guides at the orientation helped put her mind at ease.
“I’m so glad I came,” said Wright. “I think everyone that has spoken to us has had the students’ best interest at heart. It makes me feel good about sending my son here.”
Despite The University’s recent 15-percent tuition hike, Marston said much of the reason she chose The U of M was because tuition was less expensive than other colleges. Another reason was proximity. Marston lives in Memphis and plans to live off-campus.
Tim Phan, a freshman finance major, also said he picked The U of M because of its location.
“It’s close to my house, and I’ve heard that it was a good school,” said Phan.
Tina Hyde of Millington and Bobby Reynolds of Bartlett said they are attending The U of M thanks to scholarships that were awarded to them. Hyde and Reynolds both said the orientation session was drawn out.
“It’s long,” each said.
Student orientation is required for all new University of Memphis students, freshmen and transfers.
The sessions for freshmen last two days while transfer students attend a one day orientation.
There are a total of 13 sessions which began the first week of June. The last session for freshmen will be held today and Friday. Transfer students’ last orientation will be held Wednesday.