Parents, Incoming Freshmen Find Orientation Rewarding

By Talbert Toole
Lifestyles Editor
talbert.toole@hottytoddy.com
Ole Miss rounded out its second-to-last orientation session Tuesday, July 3. Students, parents and leaders said the experiences were rewarding and provided valuable information for incoming freshmen.
Larry McGill of Wichita, Kansas said his son had many options to choose from when deciding on a college. McGill said he supported whichever school his son did.
“Ole Miss has been great so far” McGill said. “They have made us feel right at home. There’s somewhat of an information overload, but that is to be expected. It’s a lot of things to understand and process.”
Orientation is a two-day process for parents and incoming freshman to come and learn the ins-and-outs of campus. On the first day, attendees begin the session at 8 a.m. with check-in followed by a welcome ceremony.
Throughout the day, orientation leaders offer advice, guidance and real-life experiences. Rowan Baird, junior mechanical engineer major, said she became an orientation leader because she enjoys seeing incoming freshmen realize their potential to do well at Ole Miss.
“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing students get excited, find their passion and realize they can pursue their dreams no matter the cost,” she said.
During day two of orientation, student attendees are given the opportunity to meet with officials from their school or department. Students learn the specific requirements they will need to complete in order to graduate.
Martin Fisher, associate director of admissions, said this process has been successful for everyone involved.
“It’s a special time to be a student here, and our orientation leader team does an amazing job of helping our new students transition to Ole Miss as they begin this exciting time in their lives,” Fisher said.
Ole Miss’ final orientation for the upcoming fall semester is scheduled for August 14-15, with its final transfer orientation session scheduled for August 16-17. Classes begin Monday, August, 20.
For more information on Ole Miss orientation, visit their website page here.