Smile, You’re a Lion Now

At this year’s freshman orientation, held on campus in July, the collegiate careers of more than 1,500 students began with a tote bag and camera flash in Paul Loser Hall.

Words by Amy Macintyre '12

At this year’s freshman orientation, held on campus in July, the collegiate careers of more than 1,500 students began with a tote bag and camera flash in Paul Loser Hall. Orientation is the day it becomes official—the day students receive their official identification card that grants them full access to the College.

Incoming freshman and nursing major Tamira Gorrell had already been living and studying on campus for two weeks as part of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program. Already acquainted to the campus, Gorrell’s main focus of the day was getting her ID card.

After her picture was taken, student ambassadors ushered parents and freshman to Quimby’s Prairie in front of Green Hall for a continental breakfast and information fair. A full spread of coffee, orange juice, and bagels centered dozens of folding tables with staff and faculty representing TCNJ services such as Campus Police, heath services, housing, dining and more.

Incoming students then separated from their parents and joined their respective majors for a dean’s welcome and department session.

For Gorrell, the dean’s welcome was the highlight of her orientation. She chose The College of New Jersey for its small campus and because she wanted to be able to develop personal relationships with the faculty. Assistant Dean for Student Services of the Nursing Program Antonino Scarpati reaffirmed her decision.

“He was more into getting to know the students. He has an open door policy so we can go to him and talk to him about anything,” she said. “I like to have a closer relationship with my teachers. That’s why I chose TCNJ. I don’t want to be known as a number. I want a personal relationship.”

After the information session, freshman moved on to the computer labs for tutorials and scheduling changes and then met with college ambassadors for a student to student session regarding life at TCNJ. Ambassadors focused on transitioning into college life and how to prepare for their academic future.

Freshmen and their families were reunited at the end of the day for an ice cream social at T-Dubs Dining Hall. As everyone garnished their ice cream with an assortment of toppings, ambassadors began handing out the ID cards. Once in their hands, the students laughed and compared pictures then proudly presented them to their parents.

ID in hand, Gorrell said she felt confident and was looking forward to her time as Lion.