University of Miami - Ibis Yearbook (Coral Gables, FL)

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ONNECTIONS 95 New students experience Fall Orientation BY ADAM ALTIVIAN onneotions-hot only was that the theme of Orientation 1995, but that is exactly what was made between peo- ple on this campus as the freshmen got their 'first tastes of college life in August. Not only were Orientation staff members on site at the various residential colleges to help out during the hectic move-ih process, but they also helped new and transfer students feel Chose to make the most of it could take a cam- pus tour, attend educational ffihterest sessions? and be exposed to the many opportunities to get involved on campus. Orientation 1995 was deemed a huge success both by those who took part and those who watched it in action. Program Coordinator Christopher Blahco attributed this success to an energetic Orientation staff of 1 15 devoted members. In fact, Blahoo said that, because of the 1995 Orientation staff, the program was as per- more at home as they befriended the students. Basically, the Orientation staff served students by making easier what can be a scary experience. The first night was highlighted by an annual favorite, The Cane Kick- Off, during which stu- dents first met their Orientation Assistants tgroup leaders, so to speaki. Held on the Intramural Field, this becomes a students first impression of the univer- sityis commitment to the student. After this evening of good-hatured craziness, the rest of the week was spent expos- ing students to UM in practically every way possible. Those who 22 F EATURES Orientation Assistant Troy lppolifo stands inside a circle of new Hurricanes as he meets his orientation group for the first time at fCane Kick-Off. Photo courtesy of Cynthio Nolon Potey

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feet as it could have been? One of those staff members, Orientation Assistant Amy Leitman, agreed. was well run, it was a lot of fun, and it was a great learning experience? The individual behind this experience was the always-lousy, extremely devoted Orientation Director, Cynthia Nolan Patey. For her, Orientation is the most important program the university offers, tby and large, since students get to know other students and learn resources and activities in ways you cannot learn tfrom a brochure? This year, stu- dents had the oppor- tunity to see Mystery Theater. Mystery Theater. and eating disorders. tOrientation at the Rathskeller. I love meeting the new students and being able to answer the questions that l didntt know the answers to when I first got here. - Cristina Guerra Assistants acted out several different situations when I first got heref that college students may find themselves in. The scenes tackled such subjects as acquain- feel the exact same way. Above left, University of Miami Cheerleaders teach incoming students that Itis great to be a Miami Hurricane at thme Kick-Off. Above Right, Millie Perez and Rolando Blando act out a scene during Mystery Theater at Full Orientation. At left, students participate in Photo courtesy of Cynthia Nolan Potey tance rape, homosexuality, time management, New students also got to meet one another at the annual nuts and bolts party held Orientation works its magic best because both the staff and the students are enthusiastic. This magic showed as O r i e n t a t i o n C o o r d i n a t o r Cristina Guerra explained why she ends her summer vacation early to be part of the Orientation staff. til love meet- ing the new stu- dents and being able to answer the Orientation questions that I didnt know tthe answers tot In a few years, these new students will F EATURES 23