As the 2019-2020 school year came around the corner, incoming freshmen encountered new faces, got involved in various clubs, and began their transition into a new chapter. Whether they came from a small town, like Summit Eastglen, freshman, or a big town, like Emma Barben, freshman, Rockhurst welcomed every student to come together and unify at their new home.

“I was excited coming to Rockhurst just as much as I was nervous, especially because of all the changes coming in my life. I liked the idea of entering into a welcoming community,” said Drew Hedrick.

            On August 16 to 18, Rockhurst Student Life assisted students with their transition by putting together “RU Orientation” on the weekend before the first day of school. The orientation introduced transfer students and incoming freshmen about the spirits and traditions of Rockhurst and campus involvement opportunities. Students were divided into 15 teams and competed to get the most points in order to win “RU Orientation”.

“I liked orientation because it was a great way to make relationships with new people and start the year off on a good note. I love how the upperclassmen welcomed the freshmen class with open arms,” said Katie Kinnan, freshman.

            New students also became more involved by going to the Activities Fair on August 22. Students toured around the Convocation Center to view all the various clubs that the campus offered. Club leaders set up a booth and spoke to students about what each club advocated for.

“I liked that I was able to learn about all of the clubs during my first week on campus. It allowed me to get involved right away. I ended up joining the pre-dental club, but plan to join much more,” said Colton Broxterman.

            Each day after the first day of classes, students became more comfortable in their transition. Though this chapter in these new Rockhurst hawk’s lives has just begun, Rockhurst University welcomes them with full wings and supports them with a safe nest to become their new home.