Orientation preps freshmen for Edgewood experience

MADISON, Wis. (Sept. 2, 2005) -- What do you get when you combine the year-long efforts of upperclass leadership -- coupled with the direction of the student activities, residence life, and dean of student’s offices -- with the selfless efforts of nearly 100 returning students and the participation of close to 300 college freshmen and their families?  

The answer, of course, is Edgewood College Freshman Orientation. The three-day event, which began with residence hall check-in on the morning of Sunday, Aug. 28 and officially concluded with a full evening of activities this past Tuesday, Aug. 30, was jam-packed with informational sessions, great entertainment, and engaging activities. It was all geared to ensure incoming freshmen connect with campus, each other, and the city of Madison, while learning how to make a smooth transition into college life as it relates to learning inside and outside of the classroom. 

“Student attendance at our orientation sessions has been fantastic,” said Maggie Balistreri-Clarke, Vice President for Student Development. “A number of students were apprehensive and overwhelmed when they first arrived on campus, but with the assistance of our 60 students on our orientation leadership team, students are connecting with each other and with Edgewood. I think we are off to a great start.” 

Students Orientating Students -- referred to as  S.O.S. Guides -- and resident assistants led discussions on topics including relationships, health and wellness, diversity, effective study habits, and money management. 

There were also a number of Family Break-out Sessions held on the first day of orientation to help parents learn the ins and outs of Edgewood. And for those parents who perhaps had a son or daughter who was entering college for the first time there was advice from faculty, staff, and school administrators on what to expect during the upcoming school year -- which began Wednesday, Aug. 31 -- and suggestions on how to support their student’s new venture into academia.

 “I heard from many parents how pleased they were with how smoothly everything went,” said Balistreri-Clarke. “Parents attended sessions on a wide variety of topics and were pleased with the information that they received. Our evaluations from them have been overwhelmingly positive.” 

In between and after the days’ learning activities, freshmen were treated to a number of entertaining activities designed to help foster a sense of community amongst their peers and newfound friends Though the primary purpose was fun, these activities were designed to create the sense of community at the heart of Edgewood’s values. 

Late Night Players, a live and interactive sketch comedy act, drew rave reviews following their hilarious performance on Sunday night. Then, nationally renowned singer-songwriter and local favorite Pat McCurdy adored a new audience on Monday. In addition, students were welcomed to participate in open gym, campfires, a dance party, t-shirt designing, and much more.

 “The activities for orientation are very diverse so there's something for everyone,” said sophomore R.A. Rebecca Miller. “The new freshmen have participated in a lot so that helps them get as much as they can out of three days' worth of preparation.”