WS Chronicle

In above photo: Nearly 900 freshmen moved into their dorms on Sunday, Aug. 9 on the campus of WSSU. (Photo by Tevin Stinson)

Weeklong orientation eases the stress that comes with starting college

By Tevin Stinson

The Chronicle

On Sunday, Aug. 9 Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) welcomed a new generation of Rams onto campus during the official move-in day for the class of 2019.

According to the university, nearly 900 freshmen arrived on the opening day of “Ramdition,” a weeklong student orientation for freshmen.

The first year of college can be extremely stressful.

To help ease that transition, WSSU scheduled a week full of classroom sessions, campus life workshops, and social activities.

The week of activities will end with a “Through the Archway” rite of passage ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 15.

During the ceremony, students will march from the clock tower in the center of campus to the K.R. Williams Auditorium.

The activity is meant to officially welcome the new students into the WSSU family.

Many parents could feel the family atmosphere as soon as they stepped on campus.

Derrick Gregory Sr., a 1984 graduate of N.C. A&T University, said during a visit earlier in the summer, he knew that WSSU was the right place for his son Derrick Gregory Jr.

“We visited a few other colleges, but I believe there is nothing like that HBCU experience,” said Gregory. “That’s what made WSSU stand out, the care and support they give to the students.”

To ease the stress on the parents, throughout the summer WSSU hosted Rams at Home Sessions.

These sessions were designed to allow parents of incoming freshmen to complete the bulk of paperwork and business processes prior to their arrival to campus.

Each Rams at Home Session drew hundreds of students and parents.

“The sessions were very helpful,” said Gregory. “It really helped make move-in day a lot less stressful.”

WSSU didn’t stop there.

Upperclassmen were on campus to welcome the incoming freshmen.

Many of the upperclassmen helped unload vehicles and give directions to those in need.

A number of fraternities, sororities and student social organizations were also on hand to welcome the class of 2019.

A lot of students said they were looking forward to the week’s festivities and starting a new chapter of life.

Jasmine Wright said she is most looking forward to meeting new people and the freedom that comes with starting college.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting new people and learning how to make it on my own.” Wright said.

The first official day of class for WSSU is set for Wednesday, Aug. 19.