Although classes didn’t begin until Monday, many freshmen began their ISU experience last week. Destination Iowa State took place Thursday and Friday, introducing incoming freshmen to their new home.

The event gives new students a chance to experience Iowa State as part of a group instead of as a face in the crowd.

“I think one of the great aspects of [Destination Iowa State] is that students are paired with a team leader and other team members so that they can get to know a smaller group of students,” said graduate assistant Kirstin Leih. “It’s not so overwhelming when they first get here.”

Event coordinator Jennifer Farrell said although this year’s event is similar to last year’s, Destination Iowa State is constantly updated to keep up with student input.

“Every year we are tweaking, modifying and hopefully improving the program,” Farrell said.

The Thursday kickoff included addresses by Thomas Hill, vice president for student affairs; Emily Jensen, president of the Government of the Student body; and William Keim, motivational speaker welcoming students to campus and commenting on everyday college life.

This year, organizers added speakers that emphasized teaching new Cyclone students about ISU traditions.

“My favorite part was the kickoff,” said Angela Rupp, freshman in elementary education. “It was nice to feel welcomed and part of the family right away from the beginning.”

Participants also took part in group service projects.

In previous years, new students worked on 20 to 30 smaller projects around the Ames community. This year, work was concentrated on four large-scale projects.

“We are still partnering with local agencies, but we have moved projects to campus,” Farrell said.

Farrell said informing students from the beginning about opportunities such as the 10,000 Hours project and asking them to reflect on their place in the community helps participants start a habit of helping out in their community.

Students also had the opportunity to offer advice to coordinators for planning next year’s events.

“Make sure the leaders take students to all of their classes and get around to show them where they’re at,” Jessica Sambrano, freshman in health and human performance said.

Farrell said feedback is invited not only from the students, but from team leaders and other participants as well.

The feedback becomes the base for improving next year’s event, Farrell said.