Arkansas State University - Indian Yearbook (Jonesboro, AR)

Page 33 text:

Campus Life-29

Page 32 text:

A senior in high school has the feel- ing of being on top, of having arrived. But it seems that just as the senior be- gins to enjoy his exalted position, some- thing happens. Almost overnight he is transformed from the big man on cam- pus to the lowly, inexperienced, much malig ned college freshman. That sud- den transition can make the beginning of the college experience difficult for some. Freshman Orientation at Arkan- sas State University is designed to ease that transition, for the next years are most important, and chances are the better start new students have, the eas- ier the coming years will be. The years of study to follow will change and mold students ' lives forever. Even though freshmen are on the bottom, it is here that the foundation is laid for the future. Of course, part of being a freshman is being stared at by upper classmen those first few weeks of school. The ba- sic insecurities of freshmen seem to stand out. However, freshmen possess a quality that is often gradually lost by upper classmen and only a few are able to retain it. This quality is the excitement freshmen feel about the future. Fresh- men are travelling the road to becoming whomever they are going to be and anx- ious to be someone. Of course, along the way upper classmen will continue to feel superior but young and inspired, the freshmen go on dreaming, hoping someday to be a lawyer, accountant, teacher, or whatev- er they desire. For they know they are only limited by how big or little they choose to dream. Maybe somewhere along the way upper classmen will re- capture a vision and be reminded of that first year of college and the excitement once felt about the future and thereby dare to dream and experience a new zest for learning. 28«Freshman Orientation

Page 34 text:

An Introduction To College Life And ASU Freshman Orientation marks the dawning of a new adventure - college. Each year about three days before the fall semester begins, new students ar- rive on the Arkansas State University campus. This early arrival for Freshman Orientation helps in-coming freshmen adjust to college life through a series of planned activities. Freshman Orienta- tion also provides information about stu- dent services and suggests what is ex- pected from ASU students as well as what students can expect from the uni- versity. Freshman Orientation also seeks to promote good relations with faculty, staff, and peers. In August of 1987, approximately 1200 students arrived at ASU for Fresh- man Orientation from near and far, a bit nervous with a touch of anxiety, ready to pursue the challenge that was set be- fore them. The three-day event began on Sunday with the ASU President ' s Re- ception, tours of the campus, Playfair, and a movie. Meet the Dean and Tips from the Professor made up Monday morning followed by Greek Life Picnic, educational sessions, and a reception. Tuesday ' s line-up consisted of the Or- ganizational Fair, Getting in the Spirit, Sorority Rush Orientation, and a foreign student reception. The finale of the three-day event was the Concert Under the Big Top Tuesday night. To make an event like Freshman Orientation successful it takes many people and hard work. Alyce Heeb of Harrisburg played a significant role as chairperson and was coordinator of sev- eral events. The Student Government Association assisted her by supporting and implementing the program, along with fifteen departments, over 100 stu- dent helpers, and the Student Affairs Of- fice. Together they helped create an in- formational and positive beginning for freshmen entering ASU. 30 Freshman Orientation These two students take time out to relax and study before entering the Lab Science Building.