Welcoming event offers answers

Curt Cretin

Some of the university’s administrators and staff members are proving they really do know what students want by providing the things college students need most – answers to questions and free food. A welcome tent, located just south of the Campanile, is staffed with office representatives from the Dean of Students office and the various departments of Student Affairs. All incoming freshmen or returning students with any questions about student life can come to ask questions and eat from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today. The event kicked off Monday, and students were drawn to the tent by the free popsicles. Sharon McGuire, program coordinator for the Dean of Students Office, said they ran out of popsicles around 11:30 a.m., but a fresh stock was ready for today. “I wanted to be one of the first people to meet and welcome the students,” said Pete Englin, interim dean of students. Travis Greene, graduate assistant in educational leadership and policy studies, said the Student Affairs Committee set a goal of having 1,200 students make the trip to central campus during the two-day event. “We think that we will reach our goal of having 1,200 students show up today [Monday] and hope that we will have that same amount come tomorrow,” he said. Cassie Wittenbaugh, freshman in art and design, said she thought the tent was very helpful. She noticed it on her way back from a sociology class, and she said the friendly atmosphere and the accessible location helped entice her to the tent. Michelle Szabo, program coordinator in the study abroad center, said many students are curious about what to do on campus and don’t always know where to go or who to talk to. A drawing for several prizes – including sweatshirts, a first-aid kit and a bike helmet – will be held at 2 p.m. today. Students can register for the drawing at the event.