orientation

First 40 should offer wider selection of programming, de-emphasize floor community

As with any major life transition, becoming acclimated to a new environment is challenging. The administration at Washington University recognizes this difficulty and programs events accordingly to help ease in the new students. These events—known as the First 40—are not without their problems, though.

Bear Beginnings a bust

A few weeks ago, as I began buying bedding and packing my bags, I found myself becoming increasingly worried about starting college. When I sat by myself waiting for my flight, I had to fight back tears.

Ella Chochrek | Contributing Writer

Bearings needs to find its bearings

With another incarnation of Bear Beginnings said and done, the new members of the Washington University community can now confidently strut around campus educated on our school’s policies, but maybe not ready for the day-to-day struggles of college life. “Our Names, Our Stories” tells of our various identities, “The Date” of sexual assault and violence, and “Bearings” of…well, not much.

| Senior Forum Editor

‘Bearings’ to replace ‘Choices’ as freshman orientation program

This fall, the oft-referenced “Choices” will be replaced by “Bearings,” a much shorter video that addresses similar issues, in an effort that the First Year Center hopes will reduce overlap with other orientation events.

| Staff Reporter

First day of classes moved to Monday, orientation shortened

For the past few years, the University’s first day of classes has been on a Tuesday following a five-day freshman orientation program. This year, however, classes will begin on Monday.

| News Editor

Bear Beginnings needs a fresh start

Classes begin tomorrow, with some 1,600-odd new students embarking on their first-ever day of college.

Senior Staff Q&A

Senior Staff Advice Whether a three-year veteran of Washington University or just 12 months removed from the first stay on campus, every member of Student Life’s staff has been a new student at some point. We have all had our highs and our lows, and we are eager to share our thoughts on surviving—and enjoying!—the freshman experience.

A how-to: Getting rid of the parents

I carry my bags to my new home at Wash. U., set up my room, pack away my clothing and casually throw my depressingly empty bags above my closet. I hug my mother and say goodbye to her in a suitably emotional fashion that doesn’t reveal my excitement at her departure. As I lay on my bed I think about college life, and what is store for the next four years.

Daniel Deibler | Forum Columnist

Surviving Orientation as an incoming student athlete

The Washington University class of 2014 officially moves in on Thursday, marking the beginning of Orientation. With a multitude of programs and meetings to attend, along with friends to make, it can be hard to find time to sit down and relax. However, incoming student athletes have practices and tryouts to worry about additionally.

| Sports Editor

WUSA program rising in popularity

As the Office of Orientation prepares for its annual Washington University Student Associate selection process, the relatively young program seems to have been successful in helping freshmen and transfer students with their transition into college life. The WUSA selection process is becoming increasingly competitive, and the Office of Orientation expects to see a rise from last year’s approximately 300 applications.

| Contributing Reporter

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