Starting university can be a big transition, a time of excitement, discovery, and a bit of trepidation. A warm welcome always helps, and that’s exactly what StFX has planned.
Over the coming week, StFX welcomes back its student body for the academic year ahead, including one of its largest ever incoming classes, with about 1,100 first year students due to arrive on campus for Welcome Days, spread over two days this year, with new students arriving at designated times on September 3rd and 4th.
“One of the positives coming from adjusting to living during COVID was that we have learned that spreading Welcome Days out a little bit creates just as much excitement and energy, but the whole process moves a little smoother for incoming students and their families,” says Heather Butler, Coordinator, Campus Tours & Special Events.
“Students will be welcomed by the always popular (student orientation group) O-Crew, be able to meet and chat with StFX President Dr. Andy Hakin and get all the information they need to start the week and get settled into their new home away from home.”
Additionally, there will be information sessions, welcome bbqs and staff and faculty on hand to ensure the year gets off to the right start. Following Welcome Days, a week of X-Fest 2021 orientation activities is planned for the student body, which will include some new as well as some favorite activities such as Playfair, a water park day with the famous jello slide, a talent show, a pancake breakfast, and an outdoor Headphone Disco. There will also be an academic day and residence meetings held throughout the week. Classes start on September 7.
SAFETY TOP PRIORITY
Throughout all events, Ms. Butler says the health of students, staff and faculty is the university’s top priority.
“Safety is always top priority when planning these events. In terms of COVID, planning of events looks slightly different than before. Students will be given a day and timeslot to check in to Welcome Days. This worked excellently last year for families and we wanted to keep this format moving forward. For some of the orientation events, multiple venues will be used to properly stay within gathering limits and many events will be held outdoors this year.”
StFX, she says, is excited to welcome students back to campus.
“You can feel the energy rising on campus as campus starts to get busier again for the academic year. Students bring such a positive experience to the campus and the wider community so we’re all very excited to see them back for another successful year. Students stepped up last year and followed all necessary COVID-19 protocols and as a result got to enjoy a fairly “normal” academic year, so we are looking forward to the same commitment so we can have another successful year at StFX.”
GET INVOLVED
As for tips or advice for freshmen students to make the most of their first days at StFX?
“The most important advice for students is to get involved,” Ms. Butler says. “Welcome Days and Orientation Week can feel a little overwhelming, but the more you participate in, the more you get to know people and start building friendships. There are so many great events planned to help you get settled into StFX, so take advantage of them.
“Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Guaranteed you are not the only one with that question and everyone is eager to help you succeed in all areas of university life. The only silly questions are the ones that aren’t asked!”
