New Student & Transition Programs | Today at ��ϲ�� | ��ϲ��

Community conversations and leadership opportunities highlight the week ahead

Kelsey Armstrong — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:27:42 +0000

Here are some events and deadlines to check out this week:

Community Conversations & Civic Engagement

Deliberative Dialogue – America’s 250: What’s Next America?

Monday, Feb. 23, 4:30 p.m., Lakeside 212

As America marks its 250th year, this dialogue invites reflection on our shared past and the opportunity for diverse voices to share space and ideas to develop a collective vision for the next 250. Sponsored by the Kernodle Center for Civic Life and Political Engagement Work Group

Better Together: Breaking Bread, Building Bridges

Feb. 24 – May 5, every other Tuesday, 12:30-1:45 p.m.

Join us at Better Together this spring for connection and conversation. This time together invites us to live fully in the present and reflect on what makes this moment meaningful. Share stories, explore diverse perspectives, and build community. .

Dr. Habiba Sarabi: Education Rights of Afghan Women

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Alumni Gym

Join a conversation with Dr. Habiba Sarabi on the global impact of Afghanistan’s ban on women’s education and the fight for educational rights and gender equality. Dr. Sarabi, an Afghan politician, women’s rights activist, and medical doctor made history as the first woman to be appointed a provincial governor in Afghanistan, leading Bamyan Province. She previously served as Minister of Women’s Affairs and Minister of Culture and Education, where she focused on expanding education, protecting the environment and advancing the rights of women.

State of the Union Address Watch Party

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 8-10:30 p.m., Moseley 105

Join us for pizza and a live viewing of President Trump’s first State of the Union address of his second term. Come watch, discuss and stay informed. Sponsored by ��ϲ�� Votes!

Love Your Body, Berry Much

Wednesday, Feb. 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Lakeside Entrance

Stop by for coconut-lime strawberries and a strawberry mocktail, courtesy of ��ϲ�� Dining, while also learning tips for mindful eating. Swing through, grab a treat and discover ways to build healthier habits. Visit the for more information.

Cynthia Miller-Idriss – “Man Up: Understanding Misogyny to Prevent Extremism

Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Lecture

Thursday, Feb. 26, 4:30 p.m., Numen Lumen Pavilion, McBride Gathering Space

Extremism expert Cynthia Miller-Idriss examines how misogyny – online and off – fuels the rise in far-right and mass violence, and offers strategies for interruption and prevention rooted in everyday life. The Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Lecture honors Lauren, who was set to join ��ϲ��’s Class of 2015 before her murder by a former boyfriend in July 2011. Established in her memory, the fund educates the ��ϲ�� community on healthy relationships and building a culture free from violence. Visit the Spring Cultural Calendar for more information about upcoming events this semester.

Adventure Time with ��ϲ�� Outdoors!

Adventures in Leadership Summer Staff Positions Available

Applications are now open for summer Adventures in Leadership staff positions, where you’ll guide incoming first-year students through exciting outdoor experiences. Earn potential internship credit and build leadership skills. Apply today on the ��ϲ�� Job Network!

��ϲ�� Challenge

The ��ϲ�� Challenge is a great way to help classes, teams, organizations, corporations or cohorts grow through building authentic relationships, learning how to manage resources, developing creative thinking, and applying knowledge in new ways. Visit the ��ϲ�� Challenge website to review the options, gather your group, and complete the interest form to schedule a customized, no-cost experience.

Last Chance to Become an Orientation Leader

Application Deadline is Friday, Feb. 27

The Orientation Leader application is still live. As an OL, you are an integral part of the orientation process. You will play a pivotal role in the transition of all the new students to ��ϲ��, serving as a guide and mentor to new students throughout their transition. by this Friday, Feb. 27.

The Month in Photos: August 2025

Avery Craine Powell — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 13:06:50 +0000

��ϲ�� welcomed the Class of 2029 and new transfer students in August and celebrated the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year.

View some of the most impactful moments of the past month through the eyes of staff in the Office of University Communications.

The Honor Code

The ��ϲ�� Law Flex Program in Charlotte enrolled its second cohort of 47 students during New Student Convocation on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at ��ϲ��’s Charlotte center. The Flex Program is a part-time, in-person, evening program for place-bound students in the Charlotte area.

New ��ϲ�� Law students signed the Honor Code board during the School of Law New Student Convocation for the Flex Program on Aug. 12, 2025.

Opening Day

President Connie Ledoux Book presented the ��ϲ�� medallion, the university’s highest honor, to Rebecca “Becky” Olive-Taylor, retired executive director of the Koenigsberger Learning Center, and retired Vice President G. Smith Jackson as part of a ceremony that formally opened the new academic year at ��ϲ��.

��ϲ�� President Connie Ledoux Book bestows the ��ϲ�� Medallion on Becky Olive-Taylor, retired executive director of the Koenigsberger Learning Center, following the reading of a citation by Professor Maurice Levesque.

Making the move

��ϲ�� welcomed the Class of 2029 for Move-In Day on Aug. 22. New students arrived from 43 states and 15 countries, including Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Panama.

The Fire of the Carolinas Marching Band welcomed the Class of 2029 at Schar Center for Move-In Day on Aug. 22.

A unique welcome

New ��ϲ�� students were invited to begin their ��ϲ�� career, described by President Connie Ledoux Book as a “powerful journey of questions and curiosity,” at New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, 2025 Under the Oaks. Book led the students in the human bar graph exercise to show the uniqueness of an ��ϲ�� education.

Sanah Saha ’29 remains standing during the ‘human bar graph’ exercise, symbolizing the uniqueness of an ��ϲ�� education, during New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, 2025.

College Coffee

Classes began on Aug. 26, along with the first College Coffee of the academic year. College Coffee is one of ��ϲ��’s oldest and most appreciated traditions. This weekly campus-wide event brings ��ϲ�� faculty, staff, and students together to build community and develop friendships.

��ϲ�� held the first College Coffee of the 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 26, 2025 on Phi Beta Kappa Commons.

��ϲ�� celebrates first week of the 2025-26 academic year

Avery Craine Powell — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:22:43 +0000

��ϲ�� celebrated a successful first week of the 2025-26 academic year.

The Class of 2029

The Class of 2029 was welcomed to campus Move-In Day on Aug. 22 followed by New Student Orientation, including New Student Convocation on Aug. 23.

��ϲ�� welcomed the Class of 2029 with Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

��ϲ�� held New Student Convocation Under the Oaks on Aug. 23, 2025.

A new student receives their acorn, an ��ϲ�� tradition, during New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, 2025.

Coffee and classes

Classes officially began on Tuesday, Aug. 26, and students were welcomed back with the first College Coffee of the year on Phi Beta Kappa Commons. College Coffee is one of ��ϲ��’s oldest and most appreciated traditions. This weekly campus-wide event brings ��ϲ�� faculty, staff, and students together to build community and develop friendships.

��ϲ�� held the first College Coffee of the 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 26, 2025 on Phi Beta Kappa Commons

Returning students will also see new developments on campus, including the beginning work on the HealthEU Center, and have the opportunity to major in new subjects such as neuroscience and digital content management.

On Sept. 4, 2025, ��ϲ�� will hold the Fall Organization Fair on Young Commons from 6-8 p.m., allowing students to experience all the extracurricular activities the university has to offer. Then, on Sept. 26, students will welcome their families to campus for Family Weekend, including Fall Convocation with Olympic medalist Katie Ledecky, part of the ��ϲ�� Speaker Series.

��ϲ�� held the first College Coffee of the 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 26, 2025 on Phi Beta Kappa Commons.

Class of 2029 commits to ��ϲ�� Honor Code during Call to Honor ceremony

Avery Craine Powell — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 19:33:30 +0000

��ϲ��’s Class of 2029 committed to the university Honor Code during the Call to Honor ceremony in Alumni Gym on Aug. 25, 2025, pledging to uphold the four core values of honesty, integrity, responsibility and respect.

Student Government Association President Anya Bratić ’26 led the ceremony, which included representatives from each class signing the Honor Code book. Each class represents a different pillar of the Honor Code.

“We are honor-bound by ��ϲ��’s four core values, honesty, integrity, responsibility, and respect,” said Bratić. “These are more than just words. They are a guiding star for every decision we make throughout life.”

Andrew Moffa, assistant director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, addresses the Class of 2029 during the Call to Honor ceremony in Alumni Gym on Aug. 23.

Andrew Moffa, assistant director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, spoke to the class and addressed each pillar of the code: honesty, integrity, responsibility and respect.

Honesty: “Taking shortcuts in your life, academic or not, will only be a disservice to you later on,” said Moffa. “There will be times, due to all the extracurricular activities, a lack of sleep, the work piling up, when you will be faced with the choice. You may have the opportunity to make things easier for yourself in that moment by being dishonest with yourself, peers, staff, or faculty. I stand here today to encourage you to please make the difficult choice to always be honest.”
Integrity: “Succeeding in college is a team effort,” Moffa said. “You will need to rely on others and and others will have to rely on you. Take this responsibility seriously and always step up to do your part.”
Responsibility: “You are going to make mistakes. It is not about avoiding any and all mistakes. We are human and none of us are perfect (…) It is about responding to these moments by taking accountability and responsibility for our actions,” said Moffa. “Accept the consequences and vow to do better. And when the path towards doing better gets difficult, remember that you do not have to do it alone.”
Respect: “Embrace the ways in which you are so similar, and most importantly, embrace the ways in which you are different,” Moffa said. “This is what respect means to me.”

Ashanti Horton ’26, a member of the ��ϲ�� Honor Board, addresses the audience during the Call to Honor ceremony in Alumni Gym on Aug. 25.

Ashanti Horton ’26, a psychology major and member of the Honor Board spoke to students about how the Honor Code doesn’t just include respect for others, but also respect for themselves.

“We always hear ‘treat others how you want to be treated,’ but what if we flipped? What is we treat ourselves the way we so freely treat others,” said Horton. “We you begin this new chapter, yes, respect others. Listen, honor differences, uplift each other, but don’t forget that you are so worth respecting too. Treat yourself like someone who matters because you do.”

President Book then led the new students in reciting the Call to Honor:

President Connie Ledoux Book signs the Honor Code book next to Student Body President Anya Bratić ’26 during the Call to Honor ceremony on Aug. 25, 2025 in Alumni Gym.

Today we are entrusted with the honorable legacy of ��ϲ��, dedicated to the intellectual, personal and spiritual growth of all its members, to the advancement of knowledge for the good of all, and to the service of local, national and global communities. To that end, we affirm our commitment to the core values of our university:

We commit ourselves to honesty, being truthful in our academic work and in our relationships with others.
We commit ourselves to show integrity, being trustworthy, fair and ethical.
We commit ourselves to responsibility, being accountable for our action and for our learning.
We commit ourselves to respect, being civil, valuing the dignity of each person, and respecting the physical and intellectual property of others.

With these commitments, we join generations of ��ϲ�� students as bearers of its honor

Following the ceremony, students exited to Young Commons where they each signed posters inscribed with the Honor Code and received a coin with the word “Honor” engraved on it.

“I think it’s important to respect each other as students,” said Liza Hampson ’29. “It all our first time here, so why not be respectful and kind to each other and have integrity.”

Following the Call to Honor ceremony, students receive a coin with the word “Honor” engraved on it.

New Student Convocation begins ‘powerful journey of questions and curiosity’ at ��ϲ��

Avery Craine Powell — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 15:22:46 +0000

Seated Under the Oaks for New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, new ��ϲ�� students were invited to begin their ��ϲ�� career, described by President Connie Ledoux Book as a “powerful journey of questions and curiosity.”

“This enormous opportunity of an ��ϲ�� education requires action on your part, a commitment to taking full advantage of all we have here,” said Book. “It’s a simple truth about the personal leadership that’s needed to be successful. The personal leadership that says ‘I’m going to be focused on what I want and what I want to become.’”

What makes you come alive

More than 1,500 new students arrived on campus on Aug. 22 for Move-In Day, and New Student Convocation offers an official welcome from university leadership, faculty and staff. The Class of 2029 will not be together Under the Oaks again until the end of their final year at ��ϲ�� for the Numen Lumen Senior Baccalaureate.

Students make their way to the ceremony through Alamance Building, passing the bell that hung in Main Building before it was destroyed by a fire in 1923.

“You are now part of this history of resilience,” said Jon Dooley, vice president for student life. “And when you face your own challenges here, touch that bell again. Let it remind you that, like a phoenix, you too can rise stronger than before.”

New students touch the bell in Alamance Building that once hung in “Old Main” before it was destroyed by a fire in 1923.

Rev. Kirstin Boswell, university chaplain and dean of multifaith engagement, opened the event with the invocation, encouraging students to “seek what makes you come alive.”

“This is your purpose for this time. The path ahead is yours to shape. The tools for the journey are before you—take them up, use them wisely, with diligence, and with openness to the guidance of those who will walk beside you,” Boswell said.

Have courage

Student Government Association Executive President Anya Bratić addresses the audience during New Student Convocation Under the Oaks on Aug. 23, 2025.

Student Government Association Executive President Anya Bratić welcomed the Class of 2029 not by discussing her accomplishments, but her failures and how she grew from failing at ��ϲ��.

“The one thing you have to have is courage. Courage doesn’t replace fear; they coexist,” said Bratić. “Have the courage to be curious, to apply for the thing. Have the courage to be scared, and still believe in yourself anyway. Have the courage to fail, and to walk back into the room after you do.”

Following the ceremony,��Bratić’s remarks resonated with students.

“When she talked about how she failed at first, that was comforting to know that you can fail but always succeed in the end,” said Benjamin Isaacson ’29.

“I feel like everyone is nervous to fail, especially coming into college and you can and it’s okay. There’s more to do,” Lilah Provenzano ’29.

��ϲ�� held New Student Convocation Under the Oaks on Aug. 23, 2025.

Meet the class

Vice President for Inclusive Excellence Randy Williams offered the audience a glimpse into the Class of 2029, which comprises students from 43 states and 35 countries, including 169 first-generation college students. Williams highlighted four students who are members of the new class.

Priyal Sanathara, an astrophysics major and Honors Fellow from Chalfont, Pennsylvania, is this year’s recipient of the William R. Kenan Honors Scholarship, ��ϲ��’s highest academic award. In high school, she was a varsity soccer player and a member of the student government. She was an active member of her school’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council to advise school leaders on creating a welcoming environment for all. She completed a community fellowship on political education, community research, and empowerment of the Asian American diaspora and received the National Scholastic Press Association’s Leadership Award in Scholastic Journalism.
Bodhi Hriciga, an engineering major from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has dedicated much of his life to mountain bike racing. He competed with his high school team and the First Flight USA Cycling Elite Junior Development Team, earning titles as the 2023 State Champion and regional champion. Beyond competition, Hriciga shares his passion by teaching elementary school students how to ride and leading trips that introduce them to the sport. His commitment to both excellence and mentorship reflects a drive to learn and lead. Hrigciga plans to study engineering.
Sloane Johnson, an acting major from The Hills, Texas, has completed a songwriting internship, collaborating with Grammy-winning songwriters, and contributes her talents as both a writer and actor in short films produced by her high school. Beyond the stage and screen, Johnson has written four unpublished novels spanning multiple genres, showcasing her imagination and dedication to storytelling.
Lorenzo Ribadeneira, an entrepreneurship & innovation major from Miami, Florida, has combined his passion for board sports with a talent for entrepreneurship. After discovering wakeboarding just a few years ago, he quickly rose to success, earning first and second place in the 2024 Florida Wakeboarding Championships and later being named both state and national champion at the Wake Park Nationals. Inspired to extend his love for the sport beyond competition, Ribadeneira founded STOKE, a lifestyle brand celebrating board culture and community.

Vice President for Inclusive Excellence Randy Williams offers insights into the Class of 2029 during New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, 2025.

��ϲ�� values

Seated behind the new students were members of ��ϲ��’s faculty, acknowledged by Provost and Executive Vice President Rebecca Kohn as being ranked #1 in the country by U.S. News and World Report for undergraduate teaching.

Provost Rebecca Kohn recognizes members of ��ϲ��’s faculty during New Student Convocation Under the Oaks on Aug. 23, 2025.

Deandra Little, associate provost for faculty affairs highlighted four specific faculty members who were awarded this year for excellence in teaching, scholarship, civic engagement and mentoring.

Kathy Matera, professor of chemistry, is the recipient of the Daniels-Daneiley Excellence in Teaching Award.
Cindy Fair, professor of public health studies and human service studies, is the recipient of the Steven and Patricia House Excellence in Mentoring Award.
Brant Touchette, professor of biology and environmental studies, is the recipient of the Distinguished Scholar Award.
Phillip Motley, professor of communication design, is the recipient of the Periclean Award for Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility.

In her remarks to the Class of 2029, President Book compared the new students to the oak trees they sat under, both will and have weathered change and withstood challenge.

“They are symbolic of a strength that will unfold in each of you in the years ahead,” said Book. “Under these oaks, students reflect on the relationships they formed at ��ϲ��, relationships that will last a lifetime and provide support and guidance through the highs and lows of life.”

President Connie Ledoux Book addresses new students and their families during New Student Convocation, held Under the Oaks on Aug. 23, 2025.

Book emphasized the values at the center of an ��ϲ�� education: respect for the richness of difference, the value of living a life of contribution and hard work with integrity and honesty, and making a difference in the lives of others.

“The world and our nation needs ��ϲ�� graduates because the world and our country needs the values an ��ϲ�� education prospers,” said Book. “You are our hope. Our hope for a smarter, strong and kinder world.”

The ��ϲ�� transformation

To create a physical representation of the uniqueness of an ��ϲ�� education, President Book led the students in forming a “human bar graph.” Book instructed the students to stand and represent different populations around the world, including entire countries, U.S. public university students, community colleges and finally one student out of them all — Sanah Saha ’29 — who represented residential colleges and universities like ��ϲ��.

“You see, Sanah, we are all here at ��ϲ�� for the very moment when you come seeking knowledge or support and have dedicated our professional careers—to you, to your classmates, to that moment,” said Book.

Sanah Saha ’29 remains standing during the ‘human bar graph’ exercise, symbolizing the uniqueness of an ��ϲ�� education, during New Student Convocation on Aug. 23, 2025.

Students Hashini Amarasinghe ’26, Keller Knight ’27 and Mindy Monroe ’26 performed a special musical performance of “Light On” by Maggie Rogers before Associate Teaching Professor of Music Polly Butler Cornelius sang the university’s alma mater and explained the ��ϲ�� Traditions – including students receiving an acorn following New Student Convocation.

“It’s very exciting, I’m very excited to start classes,” said Graham Masiyiwa ’29 after receiving his acorn. “It’s been a good first few days.”

The acorn is a symbol of the start of their ��ϲ�� journey and in four years, the Class of 2029 will receive an oak sapling, a symbol of their transformation at ��ϲ��, when they return Under the Oaks for Senior Baccalaureate.

“It’s crazy that we’ll have the oak tree after this, and it’s the four years all symbolized in this little thing. It’s really cool,” said Taylor Fabrizio ‘29.

Students receive an acorn during New Student Convocation. The acorn is a symbol of the start of their ��ϲ�� journey.

Through their time at ��ϲ��, students will experience an array of opportunities and challenges, but all in the spirit of ��ϲ��’s historic motto, “Numen Lumen,” which are Latin words meaning “spiritual light” and “intellectual light.”

“We invite you to a powerful journey of questions and curiosity that will shine new light and new understanding,” said Book.

��ϲ��’s Class of 2029 arrives on campus ready for new connections and opportunities

Avery Craine Powell — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 18:47:43 +0000

Screams of joy rang through a residence hall Friday, Aug. 22 as Samantha Probst ’29, her roommate Leah Rappaport ’29 and Jonas Hinsdale ’29 came together in a big hug – Probst telling Hinsdale he’s the reason she and Rappaport are now roommates.

Samantha Probst ’29, her roommate Leah Rappaport ’29 and Jonas Hinsdale ’29 greet each other during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

“Jonas is one of my best friends from home,” said Rappaport, who is from Westchester, New York. “I knew I wanted to room with somebody who is also interested in the theatre field, and I said, ‘Jonas, do you know anyone in your major who I could room with?’ and he was like, ‘Actually, this girl Sam is perfect.”

Hinsdale connected the two young women, and they clicked immediately.

“From our first conversation, I just knew she was the one,” said Probst, who is a Vocal Scholar from Redondo Beach, California. “She is just so joyful and made me so excited to move to campus and live with her.”

Samantha Probst ’29 and her parents John and Christie P’29 put together her room during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

Achieve your dreams

Now all three students are members of ��ϲ��’s Class of 2029, who moved to campus on Aug. 22, coming from 43 states and 15 countries, including Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Panama.

The three first-year students are also part of the Performing Arts Living Learning Community (LLC), one of the more than a dozen LLCs at ��ϲ�� where students live in the same residential area, interacting academically and socially with each other and with faculty that share the same passion, interest, or academic focus.

“When we found out we were living on the same floor, we were so excited,” said Hinsdale, who will be majoring in music theatre. “I’m so excited for our next four years together, and we’re going to have a blast because we’re already such good friends.”

All three students chose ��ϲ�� for the performing arts, with the university recently ranked #4 “Best College Theatre” by the Princeton Review and named one of the ’25 Best Drama Schools of 2025” by The Hollywood Reporter.

“I knew about the alumni and its reputation and specifically the small class sizes, and the opportunities that came with it,” said Probst, who will major in music theatre. “But then, when I did more digging and research on the school itself, I realized how many opportunities there are with study abroad and having a double major or minor.”

Probst’s parents, Christie and John Probst P’29, say they will be sad to see her leave home but know she will thrive at ��ϲ��.

“She’s such a sweet, good kid, and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed having her home, but we’re also really excited for her to take the next step, and we know that ��ϲ��’s going to be a great place for her to do that and grow as a person and excel and hopefully achieve all of her dreams,” said John.

The Fire of the Carolinas Marching Band greets the Class of 2029 as they arrive for check-in at Schar Center during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

Karen Lindsey, assistant professor of communications, helps with Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

No place like ��ϲ��

As the university welcomes more than 1,500 new students for the 2025-26 academic year, ��ϲ�� will now have representation from all 50 U.S. states, but some students like Praise Ogundeji ’29 are not coming from far away. She moved to ��ϲ�� on Friday from Greensboro, North Carolina, and says, after her first tour at the university, she didn’t want to go anywhere else.

“My tour guide was an eye-opener, she just made me fall in love with the school,” said Ogundeji, who plans to major in international business.

Praise Ogundeji ’29 and her family during Move-In Day on Aug, 22, 2025.

Ogundeji is part of the African Diaspora LLC, which is open to students of all academic interests and racial/ethnic backgrounds. It is the perfect fit for students interested in the expansive, global and interconnected nature of the lived experiences of those who have ancestral ties to Africa.

“The whole experience is exciting to me,” said Ogundeji. “Decorating my dorm, meeting new people and our activities here.”

��ϲ�� requires students to live on campus for the first two years of school with first-year students living in one of five residential neighborhoods: Colonnades Neighborhood, Danieley Neighborhood, East Neighborhood, Global Neighborhood and Historic Neighborhood.

Various ��ϲ�� student organizations assist with the Move-In Day process on Aug. 22, 2025.

The roommate connection

Isabelle Drake ’29 and her roommate, Kylie Mazzei ’29 connected online before coming to ��ϲ��, bonding over the color theme of a future room in the Historic Neighborhood.

“We both said blue and white, so I think that was a big green flag,” said Drake, who is from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and is a Change Maker Scholar.

Before Move-In Day, Drake visited Mazzei in her hometown of Essex Fells, New Jersey, where they attended a concert together and were able to bond.

“We hit it off. It was a good connection,” said Mazzei, who plans to study elementary and special education.

Isabelle Drake ’29 and her roommate, Kylie Mazzei ’29 during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

Drake is planning to study in the School of Communications,��exploring fields in broadcast meteorology or sports reporting. She was drawn to the university for the study abroad opportunities and ��ϲ��’s unique Winter Term in January. Julie Drake P’29, Isabelle’s mother, praised the Move-In Day process and is excited for her daughter, her first child leaving for college.

“It looks like the entire community is out. I’m impressed. They really have pulled all the stops out,” said Julie, about Move-In Day. “It’s been a whirlwind. It’s an exciting time for her. It’s definitely going to be difficult for us at home, and we’ll definitely miss her. But we have high hopes. It’s going to be an awesome year.”

Julie says the college selection and touring process was almost like “a full-time job,” but after touring ��ϲ��, she knew it was the right place for her daughter.

“We toured a very large university, and I remember they said, ‘If you go three blocks that way, you’ll find that’ and ‘Oh, and there’s a transit bus, you’ll want to use that.’ I just felt so overwhelmed, and I was just thinking, ‘I’m not sure this is the right fit for Isabelle,’” said Julie. “And then we came here, everything is walkable, and it’s beautiful. On the tour, I feel like the tour guide was hugging every third person. You could tell it was a close-knit community.”

Roommates Alessio Vaccaro ’29 and Will Saratella ’29 prepare their room during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

While Drake and Mazzei didn’t know each other before ��ϲ��, roommates Alessio Vaccaro ’29 and Will Saratella ’29 went to high school together in Needham, Massachusetts.

“I committed to ��ϲ�� and Will was thinking about it, and I was trying to get him to commit,” said Vaccaro, who plans to study finance. “I’m most excited about meeting new people and getting into classes and seeing what it’s like. It will be a cool, new change-up from high school.”

And as students began to unpack their rooms and say goodbye to family, they are reflecting on their new home and their decision to attend ��ϲ��.

“I really wanted that one-on-one personalized experience, and I knew that I would only get that at ��ϲ��,” said Probst. “It just seemed to check off every box at the end. It was just the perfect fit, and I made the perfect choice.”

The Fire of the Carolinas marching band greets the Class of 2029 as they arrive for check-in at Schar Center during Move-In Day on Aug. 22, 2025.

Advice to the Class of 2029: Student to student

Avery Craine Powell — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 20:34:32 +0000

As the Class of 2029 arrives on campus and begins their four years at ��ϲ��, current ��ϲ�� students offer their advice to the incoming class.

��ϲ�� will welcome more than 1,500 new students for the 2025-26 academic year, with the Class of 2029 moving to campus on Friday, Aug. 22.

Jack Bull ’27

Major: Human Service Studies
Minor:
Hometown: Columbia, South Carolina
Campus Involvement: ��ϲ�� College Fellows, New Student Programs and the Climbing Club

What did you wish you knew as a first-year student?

I wish I knew that college life isn’t static. My first year, even my first semester, was dramatically different than the rest of my time here. It always gets better, as long as you’re willing to put yourself out there.

What advice do you have for the incoming ��ϲ�� Class of 2029?

Lay down roots, don’t try and do too much too quickly. It is far better to establish yourself in a few clubs or groups before you branch out. It is so easy to get overwhelmed if you try to do too much.

What is your favorite thing about ��ϲ��?

My favorite part about being at ��ϲ�� is how much of a community there is here. You can always find something to do, some people to hang out with. There are so many community spaces where you can go and hang out, try new hobbies, or play a new sport.

Andrea Camo Conde ’26

Major: International and Global Studies
Minors: Communications, Middle East Studies, and Food Studies
Hometown: Richmond, Virginia
Campus Involvement: , Residence Life, Latinx-Hispanic Union

What did you wish you knew as a first-year student?

I wish I had known not to be afraid to do things by myself early on. There are so many clubs and events that I have missed out on participating in because I thought it would be odd to go alone. I have now learned that doing things independently rocks because who cares if you’re by yourself. You’re at least getting to do the things that interest you, and you can do them freely!

What advice do you have for the incoming ��ϲ�� Class of 2029?

Take advantage of everything ��ϲ�� has to offer. There are so many interesting guest speakers, dining events, performances, etc. that happen during the semester that are free and unique.

What is your favorite thing about ��ϲ��?

My favorite thing about ��ϲ�� is the campus. I love being able to walk around, clear my head, and just enjoy the nature and beautiful buildings.

I wish I knew that college life isn’t static. My first year, even my first semester, was dramatically different than the rest of my time here. It always gets better, as long as you’re willing to put yourself out there.

Jack Bull ’27

Evan Smith ’26

Major: History and Cinema & Television Arts
Minor: Middle East Studies
Hometown: Waco, Texas
Campus Involvement: Residence Life,��Club Racquetball, Anthropology and Sociology Club, ��ϲ�� Student Television, , Phi Alpha Theta

What did you wish you knew as a first-year student?

I wish I knew how open all the faculty are to talking to students and engaging with them outside of class. I knew that I wanted to do mentored undergraduate research before I even arrived, but it took me three or four semesters to get involved because I was worried about approaching professors to ask about it.

What advice do you have for the incoming ��ϲ�� Class of 2029?

Use your time to explore potential interests and hobbies while trying to get academic credit. Never again will you have access to the resources that you have while you are here, so if you think that you might be interested in something, take a class, join a club, or find some way to try it out.

What is your favorite thing about ��ϲ��?

My favorite part about ��ϲ�� is the work that I have been able to do while here. I have worked on a lot of different projects with several different professors in several different fields. I have gotten the opportunity to be involved in film projects and in other organizations to explore things that I would not have been able to do at another school.

Ellen Allen ’26

Major: Mathematics with teaching licensure
Minor:
Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
Campus Involvement: Teaching Fellows, New Student Programs, Kappa Delta Sorority, ��ϲ�� 1010

What did you wish you knew as a first-year student?

I wish I was more familiar with the typical transition period. I remember feeling like I was surrounded by peers who knew what they were doing and felt at peace while I was still unsteady. Going into my sophomore year, I found the W-Curve to be an interesting study on culture shock, particularly as a first-year college student! Reading it in hindsight, I resonated a lot with the feelings I had throughout my first semester.

What advice do you have for the incoming ��ϲ�� Class of 2029?

Give yourself grace! Everyone copes with the transition differently, and I promise that you are not alone in whatever you are feeling. Find community, join organizations, but don’t expect to meet your best friend in the first few weeks of classes. Everything takes time!

What is your favorite part about ��ϲ��?

My favorite part of ��ϲ�� is the community of people who are so supportive and involved! The friends I have made through various opportunities have always been uplifting and given me a great outlet to be myself and grow.

What to know for ��ϲ�� Move-In Day 2025

Avery Craine Powell — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 18:01:51 +0000

��ϲ�� students will move into their new homes on Aug. 22 as the 2025-26 academic year kicks off. The move-in process can be stressful, but staff with ��ϲ��’s Residence Life and New Student Programs offer some tips for a seamless start to college.

For full information on move-in and New Student Orientation, visit the New Student Orientation website.

Traffic and parking for Move-In 2025

What should I expect on move-in day?

Know your Schar Center check-in time and print your dashboard sign, both accessible to you via your . All new students should have received one (including first years and transfers, living on and off campus). The Schar Center check-in is the one-stop shop for all things check-in related. New students will receive their new student packet, which contains their orientation materials, name tag, parking pass (if applicable), room key (if applicable), Phoenix Card (if you submitted a photo in advance), pre-ordered wristband and New Student Convocation rain tickets.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by volunteers who will walk you through the whole check-in process — you won’t even have to get out of your car! Make sure you are compliant with all immunization requirements to avoid any potential delays checking in.
After you check in, you’ll be given a hangtag. The hangtag corresponds with your move-in location, and it will get you access to that specific area. It is important to have that hanging in your rearview mirror during move-in.
Once you get to your move-in area, you’ll be greeted by a team of Orientation Leaders, Resident Assistants, Move-in Team members and ��ϲ�� staff who will help you unload your car and get moved into your room. Students should know the names of both their neighborhood and building as signage around campus may vary.
Once you’ve finished unloading, you’ll move your car to a for the rest of the day. New Student Orientation begins at 4:30 p.m.

Move-In Day at ��ϲ�� on Aug. 23, 2024

What should I bring and how should I pack?

The suggested packing list is available on the “Your Summer Checklist” webpage through New Student Programs. There is also a Residence Life webpage that details the residential policies on what not to bring. Pack your belongings in a plastic tote (in case of rain) or boxes. Everything should be labeled with your name, room number and a contact phone number. This includes suitcases, boxes, lamps, loose items, shelves, etc. Dress comfortably, bring water and snacks, and enjoy the process.

While there are lots of helpers on Move-in Day, we do encourage families to arrive ready to help move their student in. Wear sneakers, bring a dolly if you have one and pack as if you’ll be carrying things yourself.

What if I forgot something?

It’s OK if you don’t have everything you need right away. In fact, less is more. Residence hall rooms are small and you won’t need to bring a trailer full of stuff with you. You can always have items sent to the mailroom or grab an ��ϲ�� Express bus to local area shopping.

Will we have time to hang out with our family?

Move-In Day isn’t only for the students; ��ϲ�� has programming planned for the entire family over the weekend.

All new students are required to attend New Student Orientation following move-in but the whole family is part of the ��ϲ�� community. There are several events specifically for families during New Student Orientation, including a session with ��ϲ��’s senior leaders, a meeting with your student’s academic advisor, a coffee social for you to meet other ��ϲ�� families, and a Family Sendoff Picnic. You can view the full orientation schedule here.

Students move into a residence hall at ��ϲ�� on Aug. 23, 2024

How can I make connections and get involved?

Get involved and go to the Student Organization Fair on Thursday, Sept. 4, to introduce yourself to different clubs and groups. Get on Phoenix Connect to join clubs, learn about upcoming events and more.

Talk to your student leaders as well. Orientation Leaders, Resident Assistants, ��ϲ�� 1010 peer educators are all there to help you get connected to the ��ϲ�� community. The Student Involvement Office also has Involvement Ambassadors who are here to help you explore the multitude of opportunities to connect. Visit the second floor of the Moseley Center to check out the Student Life offices and meet new people.

“Be curious, be brave, and start small,” said Kirsten Carrier, assistant dean of Campus Life and director of Residence Life. “College is full of chances to connect, but you don’t have to do everything at once. Go to that first hall dinner, stop by a club meeting that sparks your interest, or just say hi to someone new in your building. Those first steps can turn into some of your closest friendships and help you feel at home at ��ϲ�� in ways you might not expect.”

What if I don’t make new friends immediately?

College is a marathon, not a sprint. Take time to try new things, join a club or study abroad.

“It’s completely normal if friendships don’t click right away,” said Emily Krechel, director of New Student Programs. “The first few weeks are full of changes, and it often takes time to build real connections. Go to events, say yes to new experiences, and be patient with yourself — your people are out there, and it’s okay if it takes a semester or two to find them.”

also offers lots of fun options Thursday through Saturday nights and it is a great way to meet new people.

��ϲ��’s Class of 2029 arrives Aug. 22

Avery Craine Powell — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 17:59:26 +0000

��ϲ�� will welcome more than 1,500 new students for the 2025-26 academic year, with the Class of 2029 moving to campus on Friday, Aug. 22.

Thirteen percent of the new students are first-generation college students, coming from 43 states and 15 countries, including Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Panama. The top states include North Carolina, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Florida and Georgia. With these new students, ��ϲ�� will have representation from all 50 states.

Top majors for the class include psychology, finance, marketing, business analytics, exercise science, nursing, engineering, sport management, elementary education and political science. Nursing, business analytics and engineering saw a 13% increase from the 2024-25 academic year. The average GPA for incoming students is 4.13.

Friday, Aug. 22

Move-In Day

What to know for Move-In Day

All students will be assigned a specific move-in time, which can be found on their . Upon arriving to campus, students and families must report to central check-in at Schar Center. Students will then receive orientation materials and directions to their move-in location. Each neighborhood has specific driving directions, which can be viewed on the map below.

New Student Orientation

All new students are required to attend new student orientation, which starts on the afternoon of Friday, Aug. 22, and goes through Monday, Aug. 25. On Friday, students will meet their orientation leader for the first time and, throughout orientation, they will have multiple opportunities to interact with their orientation leaders. More activities on Friday include students learning about their residential neighborhood or campus community (for off-campus students) and having fun at Late Night ��ϲ��.

Saturday, Aug. 23

New Student Convocation

The Class of 2029 will be welcomed to the university Under the Oaks by President Connie Ledoux Book during New Student Convocation on Saturday, Aug. 23. Students will first meet in Alumni Gym at 8 a.m. and hear from Jon Dooley, vice president of student life, before walking through Alamance Building and gathering with friends and families Under the Oaks. During the procession, students will pass the bell that hung in “Old Main” before the building was destroyed in the fire of 1923.

New ��ϲ�� students touch the bell in Alamance Building on their way to New Student Convocation.

If family members want a bite to eat before New Student Convocation, they can stop by the special Parent and Family College Coffee in the LaRose Student Commons courtyard. College Coffee brings together students, faculty and staff each week for food and fellowship.

During convocation, students will receive their acorns, an ��ϲ�� tradition since 1999, which symbolizes the beginning of their ��ϲ�� journey. As they prepare to graduate in spring 2029, students will receive an oak sapling at the Numen Lumen: Senior Baccalaureate, a symbol of their transformation during their time at the university.

Later in the day, students can meet with their academic advisors and ��ϲ�� 1010 Peer Educators and then say goodbye during the Family Send-Off Picnic at several locations: West Koury Lawn, West Moseley Lawn and Martin Alumni Center. Wristbands are required and can be purchased at the Orientation Headquarters in the Moseley Student Center. Students eat for free with a meal plan.

Events are planned for families throughout New Student Orientation. However, if families cannot attend, they can always reach out to the Office of Parent Engagement with questions or concerns. Students have additional programming that afternoon and into the evening starting at 4:00 p.m. Orientation events are mandatory for all new students.

A new student receives their acorn following New Student Convocation on Aug. 24, 2024.

Monday, Aug. 25

Call to Honor

On Monday, all new students will commit to the university’s Honor Code with the Call to Honor at 9:30 a.m. in Alumni Gym. Each incoming class represents one of the four pillars of the ��ϲ�� Honor Code: honesty, integrity, responsibility and respect. Students sign their name on a poster with the ��ϲ�� Honor Code and receive a coin with the word “honor” engraved on it. Several other sessions are planned throughout the day, ending with a mesmerizing hypnotist show in Alumni Gym.

Classes begin on Tuesday, Aug. 26.

New ��ϲ�� students sign posters with the Honor Code following the Call to Honor ceremony on Aug. 26, 2024.

Phoenix Five: Sunday look at the week ahead Feb. 16 through Feb. 22

Kelsey Armstrong — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:58:57 +0000

As we move into the third full week of the semester and student academic obligations start moving front and center, don’t forget about the support and resources available from Learning Assistance at ��ϲ�� – tutoring, academic support, success coaching, student resources, success workshops and more!

Here are five more tips to check out in the week ahead:

Apply to be an Orientation Leader

Want to make an impact at ��ϲ��? Apply to be an Orientation Leader and help guide new students through their transition while building leadership, communication, and mentorship skills. by Friday, Feb. 21 and take the first step toward an unforgettable experience!

Make a Difference through Student Government Association!

Each spring, the Student Government Association holds elections for executive officers, class officers, senators and additional positions with the Senate. There are also open positions to be appointed VP for Finance or Communications. Forms are due Monday, Feb. 24 – .

Year of Service/Gap Year Panel

Tuesday, Feb. 18, 5:30 p.m., SPDC (Moseley 140)

Looking to do something meaningful after you graduate but are not quite sure yet what you want to do? Consider a gap year program! Ask questions and hear more from representatives from ��ϲ��’s Year of Service Program, the Peace Corps, NC Campus Engagement/AmeriCorps VISTA, Teach for America, and GoFellows. !

Men’s Basketball vs William and Mary

Saturday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m., Schar Center

Come cheer on the men’s basketball team as they host William and Mary for their last home game of the season. Students attending will receive an ��ϲ�� Phoenix t-shirt in collaboration with HealthEU. .

SUBCinema Presents: Gladiator II

Friday, Feb. 21, 8 and 10 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, 8 p.m., Turner Theater

After his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to find strength to return the glory of Rome to its people. Learn more on .

New Student & Transition Programs | Today at ���ϲ����� | ���ϲ�����

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Love Your Body, Berry Much

Cynthia Miller-Idriss – “Man Up: Understanding Misogyny to Prevent Extremism

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��ϲ��’s Class of 2029 arrives Aug. 22