#welcometocollege

[welcometocollege-blog1]

[welcometocollege-blog1]

[kateconwayturner]

Welcoming and Orienting New Students to Buffalo State

I often get asked during the summer how I am enjoying the quiet downtime. And I always share how many projects, programs, and summer classes are going on during the summer. I also mention the excitement of our Orientation programs for first-year students, transfer students, and family members.

Orientation 2018 kicks off in the Campbell Student Union Social Hall

It takes an entire community to effectively orient these newest members to our campus, and this summer was no exception. The Orientation staff, under the skillful direction of David Cox and with the energetic and effective assistance of the student BEAT team, developed and executed a program to fully prepare our incoming students. Orientation brings students and family members to campus in groups of two or three hundred to learn more about Buffalo State. New students prepare for the start of the school year in ways that allow them to manage their new home and become acquainted with the expectations of college and hear from key members of the campus community.

President Katherine Conway-Turner (in orange) and Vice President for Student Affairs Tim Gordon (to her left) with the student BEAT team

Students seemed to enjoy the programming. From the Compact for a Civil and Caring Academic Community to performers from the Anne Frank Project to tips on how to get around campus, the program was layered with activities to prepare all our new students.

Orientation students and BEAT team members visit nearby Elmwood Avenue  

Incoming students in group 1 in Bulger Communication Center for a presentation

Activities included advising sessions, introductions to study-abroad, and information about our many clubs, organizations, and wellness programs. Thanks to all the members of the campus community who presented to students, welcomed them in formal ways, and presented welcoming smiles and encouragement to them as they navigated across campus.

New students on campus for day two of Orientation

If you were on campus, I’m sure you were aware of or participated in the outstanding Orientation activities that were occurring, and if you weren’t, here are a few photos.

[babygirl5688-blog]

Just heard a chick walk by talking about how her parents think she'll grow up to be a serial killer 😂😂

[perksofmyquirks]

This semester won't be a (cup)cake walk. It's going to be 12 hour days (at least) of school and work, and the reality is if I try to do it on my own, I'll crumble faster than a stale cupcake. I'm looking forward to it though because this is the first semester I'll be walking into and through with Jesus by my side. Yes, He's been there all along, but I was resisting His help, convinced I could handle it all on my own. This year, I'm taking His offered hand. Will I stumble? Of course. Will I fall? Almost certainly. But He'll be there to pick me up, dust me off, and set me back on the path. Cause I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil 3:14). To the #Classof2021, take the time to read your Bible each day. It doesn't have to be in the morning, but it is important to schedule it in to your day (otherwise you'll be tempted to push it aside). Get involved on campus with a Christian organization (best decision I ever made). Find a church in your new town, one that fits. To the #Classof2018 (my class!) this is the final push. You can do this!! You've made it this far, you've run the race set before you. Finish strong. 🎓 #college #welcometocollege #finishstrong #faith #christiansincollege

[audrajennings]

#welcometocollege #inthemailbox #litfusereads @litfuse

[buffalove-5763]

1.30.17 | Reading the Introduction after we already had an assignment on Chapter 4 makes sense. (30 | 365) #photoaday #welcometocollege (at Canisius College)

[morefordecor-blog]

Step 1 - Bedding

For some people, coming to a new school means coming to a new state or even coming to a new country. For everyone it means living in a new room. These changes make it crucial to make your new room feel like a true home. I am going to share my experiences and advice on how to really make your new home feel like home. Of course this process takes a while, but you have to start somewhere. Today, we are starting with the most important part of any bedroom – A BED!         My first piece of advice is to go straight to Bed Bath & Beyond. My experiences there have been nothing but amazing. College students are a target market for Bed Bath & Beyond, so many of their products are tailored towards the needs of people just like you (Consumer Behavior, Chapter 2). Because of this, they have a lot of experience and can be VERY helpful. When I was shopping, I almost purchased twin size sheets until the employee reminded me that the dorm beds are twin XL’s! Most importantly they have great relationship marketing. I return to Bed Bath & Beyond every year because of their excellent customer service, their easily accessible coupons, and their college registry option. These attributes are reasons why they have so many repeat customers (Consumer Behavior, Chapter 1). With the help of an employee, go pick out bedding!   These new purchases for your dorm will not only provide functional value (since you need something to sleep on, of course) BUT they will provide you with emotional value as well. From my own experience, I promise a cozy bed can make all the difference!