Incoming Students Welcomed to Vaughn

January 5, 2012

From near and far, more than 100 students arrived at Vaughn College on Thursday (Jan. 5) for a post-holiday initiation into college life.

The College opened its doors to its newest generation of students in the first of three spring semester orientation sessions. The three-hour gathering offered students the chance to learn about the campus and its resources, obtain information about clubs and athletics, greet faculty and, most importantly, meet future classmates that could become lifelong friends.

"It was a very straightforward experience," said Sariel Cepeda of Brooklyn, who next week will begin pursuit of his associate degree in airframe and powerplant technology. "It was very efficient and worthwhile."

Vaughn promotes new student orientation as perhaps the best way for incoming students to transition to college life. Some essential duties—securing lockers, obtaining ID cards and gaining access to the email system and student portal—were fulfilled. But just as importantly students were able to connect with fellow classmates, housemates and other members of the College community.

"In the past, we've found that students who attend orientation are better prepared for college and what will be expected of them," said Janel Keeyes, director of residence life and student affairs.

Two more spring orientation sessions will follow: on Thursday, Jan. 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. See www.vaughn.edu for potential weather-related changes.

SPRING SEMESTER NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION: Incoming students Jay Williams, center, and Luis Ramirez, right, are introduced to Vaughn's computer system. Below, Annie Bellettiere, associate director of student activities and residence life, welcomes new students.