Furman University - Bonhomie Yearbook (Greenville, SC)

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6 StuJoht I if.- the active difference The quest for academic survival at Furman often took individuals outside the classroom, where student life offered the reprieve of activity. For many in the Furman population, student life made the difference between a one-dimensional life of studying and the real liberal arts education. The opportunity to play an intramural sport, attend a musical performance or release inhibitions at a unique FUSAB event like Blizzard of Bucks opened up a realm of fun and relaxation that was a welcomed outlett. Much of the activity in student life centered around school sponsored events. Traditionally popular Homecoming and Parents' Weekends were augmented by new activities such as Fall Fling and Spring Week. Because of complaints about the lack of campus social life. FUSAB. AFS and Student Services joined forces and worked to change Furman's social atmosphere. One result of this alliance was a committee that proposed men’s parlors and housing that would create a more socially conductive setting. Meanwhile, activities such as dances, concerts, ultimate frisbee contests and dramatic productions maintained student interest and occupied their time on campus. Off campus student life dwelled in the arena provided by the fraternities and social clubs. One of the most popular offsprings of the system was House Party in May, which drew a majority of the student body to Coastal Carolina. Those who were not in a social organization were apt to search Greenville for entertainment, found in many of the restaurants, clubs, shops and cinemas in the community. Student life and the amount of activity that accompanied it was a part of Furman appreciated by its students. Clearly, the on and off campus events provided an opportunity that made a difference in the personal lives of the Furman population. Even though it rowed and the traditional Orientation iqoore dance could not be behind McAhster. the PA.C gym provided a place for )utf a much fun

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A New Beginning What in the world is an R.A.? Where is Furman Hall? When are the dorms open? At the close of Orientation, many questions had been answered. Orientation week. September 3 through September 8, 1986, prepared freshmen and new students for life at Furman Univer-isty. According to Laura Ornduff, one word effectively summed up the week, “Meetings!” Meetings with academic advisors, commuter meetings, transfer meetings, hall meetings, a financial aid meeting, and meetings of brother-sister halls left the students with little free time. Electra Alexander said, “Orientation was good because it kept us busy and didn't give us time to get homesick. In addition, students faced placement tests and survey questions. The introduction at Furman included glimpses of the various activities while providing the freshmen with opportunities to meet other freshmen. The R.O.T.C. sponsored an ice cream social, C.E.S.C. sponsored dessert. FUSAB sponsored a dance and Dialogue groups met for the first time. Linda Ratcliffe said, “Orientation was a good way to meet everyone. The events which freshmen found the most memorable were the square dance and the midnight serenade. Kelly Powers said, “The serenade was fantastic.” Judy Harris said, Receiving carnations for the midnight serenade and roses for the President's reception was very special to me.” Todd Price recalled the square dance more than any other event, “It was fun because everyone was doing it.” The climax of the week came with the recognition of the Class of 1990 at the Furman-South Carolina State football game on Saturday. Maureen Weber accurately expressed the sentiment of the freshmen class when she said, Orientation made me feel like a part of the Furman community from the very beginning. On the Friday night of orientation, the brother hath traveled oerou campus to serenade the girls, who threw candy to them The guys sing the traditional song “Brown Eyes “Orientation made me feel like a part of the Furman community from the very beginningr The first ploce each new student goes a to pick his or her key Courtenay Loughln, Vivian Salley. Kim Preacher and Ruth Strait help Della Doris check In. Boulay The most memorable part of orientation for many girls Is the serenade by the guys. Wes Hulsey, Keith Robelen. Cloy McConnell and Much Nelson accompany and leod the singing 8 Student Life