College Welcome events help new students feel comfortable in classes
New students were greeted by faculty and staff of their academic communities during the College Welcome events on August 30.
Academic departments found spaces throughout the Valley Campus to meet students, host panel discussions and play games in the afternoon.
It was the event's second year. Cathy Buyarski, executive director of the Center for Student Success and Experiential Learning, said that in 2025 students found the informal meetings beneficial, with about 25% of new students participating.
"The faculty loved connecting with their students early and welcoming them to their academic community," she said. "It's intentionally held the day before classes begin to help students feel more comfortable with the faculty and know that their academic team is there to support them."
Provost Jennifer Drake attends the College Welcome events. (Grace deBest)
Brody Zondervan, president of the Professional Sales Association, a Seidman College of Business student organization, talks with a student during the College Welcome event Aug. 30 on the Valley Campus. (Grace deBest)
Tim Born, associate dean for the Padnos College of Engineering, gives remarks to students Aug. 30 on the Valley Campus. (Grace deBest)
Students gather at the College of Health Professions event to learn more about majors and meet faculty and staff. (Grace deBest)