Students Are Back!
September 3, 2008
Four new preps getting acquainted on moving-in day
Beautiful 80-degree weather marked the beginning of student registration today. As 343 new students and their families arrived, smiles and anticipation were everywhere.
"I'm really excited to be here and get things started," beamed Calvin, a day student prep, as he registered in Grainger Auditorium. "The summer was way too long for him," said Calvin's father, laughing. "He couldn't get here soon enough."
Seniors Ryan and Nick help out as proctors
More than 100 student proctors are helping the new arrivals move in. Parents got into the act, helping lug suitcases, computers and books from the car to dorm rooms. Everyone had a chance to explore and get acquainted.
"It's a really great school," said Sylvia, a prep, who traveled from Georgia with her mother and younger brother. "I'm a little anxious, but I'm going to like it." Sylvia's little brother chimed in: "Sylvia's going to come back with a lot of learning because this is a big place."
New friendships are already cementing. Briana, Wendy, Kathleen and Stephanie – all new preps – walked down Tan Lane sharing stories. "Everybody is really nice," said Briana. "I love my room," gushed Wendy. Stephanie added: "It's really pretty here."
By all accounts, the first day of registration has been a great success. "Everything looks really good," said Devika, a lower, who was moving into Bancroft Hall. "There's really good energy today," said Don Mills, physical education instructor and cycling coach, who was cycling around Wentworth Hall supervising activities, clipboard in hand. "Everyone is psyched. The dorm proctors really help make the new students feel included from the first day."
Returning students will notice a few changes since they last saw campus. The dorm sprinkler project, initiated in 2006, was completed this summer. Dow House and Webster, Merrill, Langdell and Wheelwright Halls received sprinkler systems. Exterior painting spruced up Williams, Dow, Robinson and Tan Lane Houses. Ewald sports a new roof. Wheelwright has new flooring and interior paint. Wetherell Dining Hall received lots of attention – new ceilings, carpets, lights and interior wall paint – as well as a sprinkler system. The Forbes House, a new "green" faculty residence on Court Street, was completed.
Tomorrow, students will undoubtedly take advantage of the last day without classes to play games in the quad and reconnect with friends. The weather prediction – a balmy 87 degrees – will be perfect for Frisbee, football, tennis and the all-school cookout.
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