For the newest students at Case Western Reserve University, the past few days have been full of “welcomes”—and a few “goodbyes.” Monday (Aug. 19) marked the students’ first full day on campus, and it was full of excitement. Throughout the day, they had plenty of opportunities to engage with one another and learn about university resources that will help them throughout their college journeys.
The Class of 2028—made up of more than 1,570 students—and new transfer students all came together for the university welcome and convocation, which featured remarks from President Eric Kaler and Daisy Hernández, the Elaine G. Hadden Distinguished Visiting Author, as well as other university leaders.
“When I think about the Class of 2028, I reflect on your high school experience,” said Robert R. McCullough, assistant vice president for enrollment and dean of undergraduate admission. “Most of you started high school in the fall of 2020. There was a lot of anxiety, a lot of uncertainty and fear, as schools and families tried to figure out how to live and learn through a global pandemic. But you eventually found your bearings, put one foot in front of the other, and now four years later, here you are starting college with a much brighter outlook.”
The day continued with the New Student BBQ at Kelvin Smith Library. Tears and hugs abounded as students bid farewell to their families and took time to bond with their new friends via festive games and activities.
They capped off the evening with tradition and the class photo, led by engaging orientation leaders who treated new students to a fun surprise dance set to trending songs.
New students will spend the rest of the week getting to know each other and CWRU before beginning classes on Monday (Aug. 26).