University of Minnesota - Gopher Yearbook (Minneapolis, MN)

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I«eft, one of the freshman orientation group leaders, Harry Wood-ward, passes out If) cards. The freshmen were quick to discover the innate value of the little plastic card. Right, an Army ROTC instructor explains the hard facts of military obligations—and how active participation in l h e ROTC program can insure not being drafted until after graduation. Relow, students face the most frustrating part of the orientation-registration procedure—finding open classes that fit into tight schedules. P Dana Anderson faces the Polaroid camera of the ID card photographer. All University students must endure this efficient identification method at least once during their days at the U. 23

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Frosh encounter registration woes Why do I have lo take Freshman English? Why on earth are history classes in the Physics Building and sociology in the Chemistry Building? Will these endless lines that resemble sick snakes ever shorten? What am I doing here? These are some of the plaintive questions that raced through the minds of some 10,800 freshmen as they encountered the rigorous Orientation-Registration program. Not all of them had to withstand the high-pressure registration system, of course. Clever Minnesotans had completed registering weeks in advance. Secret smiles betrayed the fact that their paid fee statements were already tucked away in their coat pockets. Advisors provided assistance and a willing ear for a myriad of questions. Changes and compromises in schedules became almost routine tasks. In addition to program planning, orientation and registration exposed freshmen to the physical facilities offered by campus life. The expenses of buying books and the inscrutabilities of getting a Health Service clearance caused many furrowed brows. Those new to dormitory life met their neighbors and unpacked their belongings in anticipation of a year of close contact with campus life. Orientation-Registration marked the beginning of the new scholastic cycle; for some an awakening of the mind to the job ahead, for others a return to the sorrows and frustrations, joys and pleasures of seeking an education. When in need of assistance in solving the University puzzle, students can find help at Morrill Hall information desk. 22

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Upperclass sponsors give tea and sympathy Always on hand to help newcomers during the “rough spots” of orientation and registration were upperclass sponsors who acted as guides. They offered a cheerful visage, a sympathetic ear and were living proof that it is possible to survive almost four years of college life. Successfully guiding their groups of 25 to 30 freshmen through testing sessions, meetings and meals, they also offered as much individual attention as they could to personalize the atmosphere at the University. By the end of the Orientation-Registration program, most of the freshmen seemed ready for classes. Those who didn’t would still find the same friendliness amid the hectic pace of fall quarter at the University of Minnesota. It's frustrating to get as far as Morrill Hall and jind still marc, forms to fill. After registration conics the bookstore. In this case, students find the stacks at Xicholson adequately stocked. 24