New Students “Make Their Mark” at NSO

For many Immaculata freshmen, the past several weeks have been their first time away from home. No more parents, no more strict rules or curfews … simply freedom.

The first few weeks of college are overwhelmingly exciting— new people, large parties, and most importantly, an abundance of new opportunities.

Numerous students think of college as a way to reinvent themselves or do things they’ve never experienced before. However, after the first few weeks have passed, the partying simmers down and it’s time to really focus on what you came to do in college—furthering your education.

Although many freshmen are becoming homesick already, there’s no need to worry. Immaculata focuses on substituting as a home away from home. Thanks to the plentiful amount of activities run by the New Student Orientation (NSO) staff, the awkward transitional stage was made a little bit easier.  Activities during NSO II included plenty of ice breaker games and ice cream socials, as well as Convocation and a community service project provided by the First Year Experience (FYE) class.

“My favorite part of NSO was going into Philadelphia.  The service project opened my eyes, and made me realize how lucky I am to live where I do and have what I have,” said Kristin Schorn ’13. “I was surprised to find that adjusting to the college life was not as hard as I expected. I really like having freedom.”
Jessica Jones said, “NSO II activities were lots of fun. I liked the ‘texting clues’ scavenger hunt—I thought It was cool that you had to have [your] phone for the clue. I also liked the music lyrics game on back campus. Everyone got involved.”

Janerry Jimenez feels the same:  My college experience at Immaculata so far has been great, though. I feel as though I’m getting a genuine education and I really love the beautiful campus. My hardest adjustment thus far has been getting used to the colder temperatures. It’s a drastic change coming from Puerto Rico all the way to Pennsylvania.” 

Dan Klordarska comments, “Participating in a sport, work study, and a 16-credit schedule creates a lot of stress… but I can’t complain. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I like to stay active because it makes me a more efficient person. If I wasn’t busy, I would procrastinate.”

Despite the fact that being a freshman has its awkwardly entertaining flaws, it’s a new, fresh opportunity to do something productive with your life. Make the most of your freshman year, and as we’ve been told many times during NSO, it’s time to “make your mark” on Immaculata!