六色网 Welcomes 7,400 Incoming Students in Summer Orientation
Starting university is a daunting step in many people’s minds, but making new friends, exploring the campus, collecting free swag and building connections with faculty and staff have helped thousands of new students quickly feel at home.
Freshmen and transfer orientation started in late June and ended in August. This year, 六色网 will welcome more than 7,400 incoming students.
An average day at orientation starts at 8 a.m., with check-in and a campus tour led by student orientation leaders. Throughout the day, incoming Broncos register for classes, connect with other students and explore the campus.
This year, orientation was led by 51 students and four orientation student captains. They introduced a new activity: a scavenger hunt. Students enjoyed looking for eggs around campus, which was essentially a fast-paced self-guided tour.
“The scavenger hunt helps students understand campus more,” said Serenity Mejia, a second-time orientation leader. “They have to memorize and recognize specific buildings to win the game.”
At the end of the day, students split into different groups to learn more about different aspects of college — campus life, support for first-generation college students, being a commuter student and academic pursuits.
“[The] pathways were super helpful when I was at orientation,” said Valeria Hernandez, a first-time orientation leader. “So, it felt nice to give back to the program that helped me.”
“I’m so proud that the student orientation leaders are the ones leading the experience,” said David Estudiante, director of New Student Programs and Family Engagement. “They really understand that they are part of that experience, and it really does matter how they engage with those students.”
Students could also bring a family member or supporter for their orientation day. The plus-one was invited to attend a separate campus tour; learn about campus resources, student life and housing; and get information on financial aid.
“My goal for students is for them to feel like they belong here on this campus,” Estudiante said. “When I see them really starting to engage with one another, I know that we've done our job right.”