Another Freshman Orientation Session
is a Complete Success

Orientation is the time to work out details for the fall semester.

Parents of the students also came out in bunches as approximately 312 moms and dads made the trip to Huntsville to check out their child's college choice.

This week's session was the second of five that will be offered this summer for incoming freshmen. The first session, which took place June 10-11, didn't have as many participants, only 220, due to the flooding in Houston. Knight said that 108 students who signed up for that session were unable to attend.

The final three sessions will take place July 15-16, July 22-23, and July 29-30.

Things kicked off at 7:30 a.m. Sunday when students checked into the residence halls on campus. They then attended a small group session before heading to Johnson Coliseum to view presentations by the cashier's office, Barnes and Noble bookstore, financial aid, and residence life.

After lunch, the students were acquainted with the computer system on campus and given student e-mail addresses and housing information. Faculty members from the arts and science departments visited the campus Sunday evening to advise students and clear them for registration.

After dinner, students and parents made the trip to the Health and Kinesiology Center for "Passport to Sam," an exhibit where many campus organizations relayed information about their programs. Knight said around 75 organizations participated.

Before retiring for the day, the students were treated to "Beware of the Binge," an alcohol awareness presentation conducted by comedian Bernie McGrenahan.

Monday gave the students an opportunity to register for classes as well as meet with academic deans. After another group session, the students checked out of the residence halls at 3 p.m. and made their way to Johnson Coliseum, where they paid for classes, got parking stickers, and took care of other necessary obligations.

The parents, who stayed in local hotels during the session, also learned more about Sam Houston State University. They were able to meet faculty and deans, as well as learn about everything Sam Houston State has to offer.

Knight knows freshman orientation is important for students and parents. However, the top priority of freshmen orientation is, of course, making the students comfortable in their new surroundings. After all, the transition from high school to college is not always easy.

"I love it," said Knight, who has been involved with new student orientation for the past six years. "We get the opportunity to meet so many first time students. I don't look at it like we have 1500 students to deal with, but rather we have a part in 1500 new college experiences. It's great to have an impact because it really matters."

As well as freshman orientation, Sam Houston State also offers orientation sessions for transfer students.

They last one day and are scheduled for July 19 and August 2.

Knight said the next freshman orientation session on July 15-16 is already full and expects the other two to fill the 330-student capacity. For more information, call (936) 294-1782.

- END -

SHSU Media Contact: Brandon Autrey
June 26, 2001
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