By Elizabeth Murphy
Photos by Chris Roussakis
From move-in days to a concluding concert, Orientation Week from Aug. 31 through Sept. 6 was in full swing to help new Ravens make a successful transition to university life.
The festivities kicked off with the move-in extravaganza, when new residents were met by enthusiastic student volunteers to help tote their belongings. As the students and their families rolled onto campus, Carleton President Benoit-Antoine Bacon and Suzanne Blanchard, vice-president (Students and Enrolment) were on hand to greet them.
“We are so happy to welcome students from all over the country and the world to Carleton,” said Blanchard. “Orientation Week is a great opportunity for students to experience campus life, meet new classmates and find out about the activities, services and supports available to them.”
Thousands of students took part in the week’s opening ceremonies, filling the Ravens’ Nest with loud cheers as they met their co-ordinators, took part in icebreaker games and heard from guest speakers.
“I want to say thank you for choosing Carleton… that shows you are smart!” Bacon said. “We chose you too, because we know you bring added value to your programs, departments and to our campus. We are so thrilled that you are here!”
Following the ceremonies, students had an action-packed day of success workshops and friendly competitions. The evening program included a show by hypnotist Richard Cole, as well as A Night Through Time – a collection of events that included a Drake-focused dance party at Oliver’s, epic bingo and movie screenings.
On Tuesday, first-year students attended academic orientation day. In addition to learning about their faculties, departments and support programs, students had opportunities to meet classmates, professors and staff who will all be a part of their learning journey.
That afternoon, the new Ravens attended Expo Carleton, where they investigated the clubs, societies and services available on campus. Friendly competition was the name of the game that evening, as students took part in an obstacle course, card games and an escape room. The night wrapped with a rally in support of Shinerama, where students listened to a speaker living with cystic fibrosis about the impact of the national fundraiser impacted
Fall term classes started on Wednesday, but after-hours orientation activities continued with a glow-in-the-dark headphone disco at Oliver’s. Those who left their dancing shoes at home could unwind with an evening creating vision boards hosted by the Department of Equity and Inclusive Communities, or take part in games such as The Price is Right.
The fun continued Thursday, when students were encouraged to explore some notable locales across the city. Those who wanted to stay in had their choice of activities at Athletics, including bubble soccer and glow yoga, as well as a board game night on campus.
As the grand finale of Orientation Week, Friday did not disappoint. Students began their day fundraising for Shinerama throughout the city. Their work was rewarded later that night as they took in a concert featuring Virginia to Vegas and the Zolas.
Pulling such an action-packed week together for hundreds of students is no small task. Fall Orientation’s continuing success is possible thanks to the committed individuals that make it a highlight for students year after year.
“Carleton’s Orientation program thrives and is best in show in Canada due to our special ingredient, which is the volunteers,” said Jeremy Brzozowski, director of Student Affairs and Student Life. “Their energy, commitment and passion for being a Raven is so evident in all that we do to welcome students.
“No doubt we have the best volunteers in the country.”
Tuesday, September 10, 2019 in Orientation
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