By Marti Schodt
On a cloudy Friday morning students and staff alike set out to welcome the class of 2017 to Saint Martin’s University’s hallowed halls, or more accurately, hallowed dorms. Beginning at 9am incoming freshman and anxious parents were assisted in the move-in process by student and staff volunteers.
“As soon as they drive on campus we have our welcome crew greeting them,” said Director of Campus Life, Laurel Dube. Dube has been responsible for organizing freshman move-in for the past four years, and because of her and her colleagues’ efforts and diligent attention, what could be a laborious process of hauling mini-fridges and bed linens is instead a chance for families to focus on the moment instead of the stress.
As the cars rolled up, student volunteers approached and unloaded the vehicles and in a matter of minutes the new student’s belongings were gracefully carried to their dorms without muss, fuss, or strained backs. “It’s our policy that families never have to lift a suitcase,” said Dean of Students, Melanie Richardson. “It gives the parents time to be proud of their students instead of dealing with the craziness of getting settled.”
Student and staff volunteers were more than happy to help. Director of Public Safety, Howard Thronson, has been supervising the move-in for four years and is always glad to meet new students and their families. “We want to give them as much help settling in as we can. They’re happy to be here, and we’re happy to have them,” said Thronson.
Resident Advisers were among the throng of volunteers as they eagerly welcomed their student wards with smiles and handshakes, “I’m here to be open with them,” said R.A. Kris Choe, “I’m not just here to help them move but also to answer their questions and help them adjust.”
New students appreciate the warm reception and cite Saint Martin’s sense of community as a draw for coming to the university in the first place. “I wanted a small, tight-knit community, and I just had a feeling when I toured Saint Martin’s that it would be perfect for me,” said incoming freshman Kristyn Schutt.
Returning students can vouch for the community Schutt speaks of. “The professors are willing to bend over backwards to help you out,” said sophomore Sophie Donan. “Everyone wants to see you succeed.” Fellow sophomore Brenden Brunner adds, “You can’t walk five minutes without seeing someone you know, it’s great.”
Following move-in, students will partake in a three-day orientation designed to make them feel at home in Saint’s territory.
Friday was used to say goodbye to the parents. A special academic convocation was held as a prelude to graduation, during which every student had their name read aloud by President Heyndrick as he personally welcomed them to university.
Saturday and Sunday will focus specifically on the students as they are introduced to the Benediction values system and expectations. Faculty panels will be open to student questions and concerns and orientation leaders will lead students in tours, bonding, games, and overall merriment.
It all ends with a dinner at the President’s house, with the President and his wife. Not many schools offer that kind of welcome. The Heyndrickx’s make it their mission to connect with students from the start. First lady Kathleen Heyndrickx was even there helping students move in. “We love to meet the new students. It’s important to us that they feel welcomed and accepted. That’s what we’re about,” said Heyndrickx.
The love doesn’t stop at orientation either. A special class (Uni 101) helps students make the transition from high school to college life, ensuring that students feel confident in their new surroundings. Additionally, orientation leaders stay in contact with their students throughout the first semester to lend guidance and advice on a peer level. And last but certainly not least, the President and Kathleen Heyndrick continue to invite special groups to dine with them throughout the year. “I’m going to have to switch up my recipes soon,” said Heyndrickx.
Moving can be scary. College can be scary. Life can be scary.
But as parents drive away and leave their students to face the scary, they can be sure of one thing: a Saint is never alone.
