Transition Day 2008

Well, the spring semester is upon us. There is a certain hustle and bustle all through the air on the hill. Along with all the new faces in the crowd, there is sense of boundless enthusiasm descending on campus. With a group of 20 incoming freshmen, the “Spring Transition Day” at Seton Hill reflected the overall identity of the University.

“Spring Transition Day” is the day when incoming students get acclimated with the Seton Hill community. After a continental breakfast in Reeves Library all parties were introduced to a number of staff and faculty to discuss their transition into college life here on the hill. Sherri Bett, the director of the Admissions Office welcomed students and thanked them for choosing Seton Hill. Next, student Katie Fritsch welcomed the group from the student’s perspective. Dr. Lois Sculco, SC, the Vice President for Mission and Student Life, transitioned the “welcomes” into “hellos” in true Seton Hill fashion. Sister Lois had everyone stand up and introduce themselves to each other. After chatting briefly, the students and their families felt more at home within their new community. Then, Dr. Mary Ann Gawelek, (the Provost and Dean of the Faculty) and Sister Lois took turns presenting to the audience an informative presentation shedding light on the history and identity of this remarkable campus.

Continuing along with the transition theme, Sister Lois teamed up with Dr. Charmaine Strong (Dean of Student Services) and Ms. Marcia Platt (the Associate Dean for student life and the Director of the Collegiate Academic and Personal Success program), to discuss the complexities of one’s transition into college life. The first-year experience at a college campus can be a challenging one for both the student and for the parent. These information sessions were designed to curb those feelings. This theme continued through the session “feeling safe and letting go”. This session, led by a multitude of the universities staff including Dr. Charmaine Strong, Ms. Terri Bassi, (The Director of Counseling and Disability and Health Services), Mr. Michael Dell (The Chief of Campus Police), and Ms. Cindy Boland (Director of Campus Ministry), focused on the variety of concerns one faces when going to college, and how to manage some of the issues parents face while sending a student to college.

Along with one-on-one sessions with faculty and staff, and a presentation on residence life, the students were able to access the Financial Aid office to answer any questions. The Registrar’s office was also busy handling any scheduling needs for the students. Various other offices were available for the students and their families including Student Accounts, Dining Services and the Student Bookstore.

All in all, the day was a complete success, truly a tribute to the faculty and staff dedicated to this achievement. The next orientation will take place in the fall. Refer to the admissions page for more information as we move closer…

You do remember the fall; the warm sunsets casting long shadows, when the leaves are turning golden reds and bright yellows… and the smells of autumn are in the air…

Check out the Photo Blog for some pictures captured throughout the day…