The rain didn’t stop move in at Sadler Hall. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

Welcome Week festivities were held last week, introducing nearly 6,000 new members of the Orange community to all that Syracuse has to offer.

From moving in to their residence halls to swaying to the alma mater during New Student Convocation to ice cream fun on the Quad and visiting the Barnes Center at The Arch for the first time, the University’s photographers captured so much of the magic that comes with a new school year. Enjoy some of the highlights from this year below!

New students pose for their class photo during the Dome Sweet Dome event on the floor of the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

Welcome Week 2024 was a big success! (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

New students move in to the residence halls with help from orientation leaders, volunteers and the Goon Squad. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

International students enjoyed the beautiful weather and extra time on campus before the Welcome Week festivities officially started. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

International students toured the Center for International Services. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

Campus was full of fun places to take photos with family! (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

Capturing those Welcome Week memories to save forever. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

FreshFest 2024, Hillel’s Pre-Orientation Program, kicked off with an event in the JMA Wireless Dome for students and their families. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

College of Engineering and Computer Science students, parents, families and supporters got to meet with faculty, staff and the dean. (Photo courtesy of College of Engineering and Computer Science’s Facebook page)

Welcome Week is never complete without a photo with Otto the Orange! (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

Students got to enjoy ice cream and a rainbow on the Quad. (Photo courtesy of Hendricks Chapel’s Facebook page)

Retired U.S. Army Colonel Ron Novack, executive director of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA), speaks to new military-connected students at the OVMA Fall Orientation and Student Fair at the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building. (Photo by Charlie Poag)

Dwayne Murray ’97, deputy director with OVMA, poses with Otto at the OVMA Welcome Orientation and New Student Fair. (Photo by Charlie Poag)

The College of Visual and Performing Arts held a special Dean’s Welcome for students and their families. (Photo of courtesy of College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Facebook page)

Maxwell Dean David M. Van Slyke greeted Maxwell students during an event on the Quad where students got to learn more about their offerings. (Photo courtesy of the Maxwell School’s Facebook page)

International student welcome dinner (Photo by Angela Ryan)

A student and Dr. Ruth Chen (right) take a moment to snap a photo with Otto the Orange during the International Student Dinner. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Annual Nya weñha Skä:noñh Luncheon (Photo by Angela Ryan)

Syracuse University Band performs at New Student Convocation (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Convocation marks the first time this group of first-year students are all together in one place. The next time they will all be together in the JMA Dome will be for their Commencement in May 2028. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

A School of Education peer advisor gives a tour to first-year students. (Photo courtesy of School of Education’s Facebook page)

The Newhouse School welcomed first-year and transfer students at a reception, where students mingled with their new classmates, staff, faculty and student peer advisors. (Photo courtesy of Newhouse School’s Facebook page)

New Syracuse University ROTC Army cadets attend orientation. (Photo by Marilyn Hesler)

Students in the Living Learning Communities play games during the welcome picnic on the Quad. (Photo by Marilyn Hesler)

Engineering and Computer Science students got to play different games during their new student social. (Photo courtesy of College of Engineering and Computer Science’s Facebook page)

The newest members of Orange Nation gather on the field in the JMA Dome. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)

The Syracuse University Marching Band performs during Citrus in the City. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University Band’s Facebook page)

Students had a chance to get their photo with Otto during Citrus in the City. (Photo by Michael Sullivan ’28)

Students are all smiles during Citrus in the City. (Photo by Michael Sullivan ’28)

Football coach Fran Brown told first-year students during Dome Sweet Dome, “It’s your first year. It’s my first year. And it’s gonna be LIT. ” (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University Alumni’s Facebook page)

Kathryn Bradford, right, greets a new student and her family at Day Hall. (Photo by Charles Wainwright)

Bradford, a budget analyst with the SyracuseCoE, has volunteered with Welcome Week for the past six years. In her role as a move-in captain, she is one of the first people that eager first-year students—and their parents and families—engage with as they begin their journey at Syracuse University.

It’s a role that Bradford—a 27-year employee of the University—relishes. For the first 20 years of her tenure at the University, Bradford worked in the textbook division of the Campus Store. The nature of that job, with the busiest times being at the start of each semester, meant that she wasn’t able to break away to volunteer.

Her most recent job at the Shaw Center, where she oversaw operations of the center, supervised the leadership internship program and directly coached and mentored more than 25 undergraduate interns, gave her that chance.

“The Shaw Center gave me the opportunity to join Welcome Week,” she says. Her Shaw Center colleagues Pamela Kirwin Heintz, associate vice president and director; Carla Ramírez, assistant director; and Laurel Morton, coordinator, provided the support for her to be out of the office for Welcome Week. “They saw the importance of me being involved in this,” she says.

Kathryn Bradford confers with Welcome Week student volunteers (Photo by Charles Wainwright)

Bradford was at Day Hall for three days last week, sun-up to sundown. “I love the interaction with the students and helping them get the best start possible,” she says.

In her role as move-in captain, she is the go-to person to smooth out any problems that arise. “All of the faculty and staff volunteers check in with me to get an overview of what’s happening and what the system is, to make sure we are collaborating with the Department of Public Safety and Parking and Transportation Services staff on site; to make sure that we are all on the same page,” she says.

Bradford is there to keep the staff in the residence hall apprised of what is happening outside, and support the orientation leaders and Goon Squad volunteers, who she describes as “phenomenal.”

One of the biggest challenges during move-in, she says, is keeping things moving. Cars are unloading in building fire lanes, which means a licensed driver who is in possession of the car keys must remain with the vehicle at all times. It’s a mix of logistics and people skills to gently guide families through this process, being sensitive to emotions and respecting the family experience while keeping the well-oiled machine moving forward, Bradford says.

Kathryn Bradford (Photo by Charles Wainwright)

One important part of the move-in experience for Bradford is to let students and families know she is a resource. “I always have my business cards on me, and I encourage students and families to contact me if I can help in any way.” As a parent, she knows that a little reassurance often goes a long way. The students she has helped to move in have often crossed paths with her later on as orientation leaders or Goon Squad volunteers or in her work with the Shaw Center.

She also is happy to connect with campus faculty and staff that she otherwise may not have met. “There are many people from across campus that I maybe wouldn’t have met, and we can stay connected and collaborate simply from going through that move in experience,” she says.

Bradford plans to continue volunteering for Welcome Week well into the future. “I love interacting with families and assuring them that their student is in good hands. It’s just fun—the excitement, the energy … anytime you can spend a couple days smiling all day long and just being happy … bring it on.”

During the annual tradition, which takes place in the JMA Wireless Dome, the academic program includes leadership and faculty processing with full regalia.

The just over 4,000 new and transfer students hail from 49 states, including Washington, D.C., U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; 20 Indigenous nations and 59 countries. University leaders and student speakers imparted advice, words of wisdom and posed thoughtful questions to the new students, embarking on this new journey.

Wisdom From an Upperclass Student

Alie Savane (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“Live it up; be in the moment. It’s okay to fail, I encourage it; it’s a learning point,” said Alie Savane ’25, a biology major in the College of Arts and Sciences and the student speaker in his words of advice to new students.

Savane was candid about some of his struggles during his second year as a student but leaned on his connections with upperclass students and alumni. “I learned that my worth wasn’t tied to only my grades but to the effort that I put out every day. Even counting those days of rest, give yourself grace, one’s recovery is still effort,” he said.

“Growth is fundamental to this experience, and there’s a community here dedicated to fostering it. The Orange community makes this campus shine bright even on its cloudiest days, which is great because winters can be a bit cloudy,” said Savane.

Requests From the Chancellor

After addressing the loved ones of the students, Chancellor Kent Syverud made two requests of the new students.

The first: come as you are. “If you have not figured it out yet, you will figure it out pretty soon: there is no one way of thinking, no one way of dressing, no one person who is the ‘normal’ here at Syracuse University. People here are unique and amazing and dazzlingly different. So given that there is no ‘normal’ here, why not try just being yourself here. Not the image of perfection that appears on social media, not the identical replica of someone else, just be you. I believe you will find that if you come as you are here, you will become Orange.”

Chancellor Kent Syverud (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The second piece of advice from the Chancellor: Become more at Syracuse. “That’s the common thread in all the speeches you are hearing this week. You have a chance that has been denied to so many people in this world: a chance to be part of a great university. So, take it. Please become more here, in your own unique and defining way. That’s what so many people have done before you, and you can too.”

Showing Grace to Others

“Every one of you have earned your place here and every one of you deserves to be here,” said Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer, sharing how almost 45,000 individuals applied to be part of the new first-year class and 1,500 applied to be transfer students.

“While you’re here I want you to make sure you explore fearlessly new ideas, new ways of thinking and expose yourself to people whose views may be different than your own,” said Groves. “I hope you’ll debate big, contentious issues and ideas respectfully, listening as much as speaking—and sometimes that’s hard—and being mindful of our goal of being a place of academic excellence in a university that is welcoming to all.”

After the program concluded, students and their families said their goodbyes. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“As you begin to navigate campus and figure out your own routine and favored spaces, I sincerely hope you will be willing to extend a hand to a classmate who may be struggling, and to show grace when a peer makes a mistake. That peer could just as easily be you, and we could all use a little more grace in this world.”

Seizing Possibilities

“Today you’re surrounded by your fellow new students, most or all of them strangers to you now. And yet many of them will become lifelong friends. Hard as it may be to imagine, you and the people who surround you now will gather again in this dome in four years to celebrate Commencement,” said Lois Agnew, interim vice chancellor, provost and chief academic officer. “Between that day and this celebratory moment, there is possibility—the possibility of who you will be as a student at Syracuse, and the possibility of who you will become in the years that follow your time here.”

Agnew shared there are many ways for students to seize that possibility, noting research, creative inquiry, studying beyond campus through study away and study abroad programs, experiential learning and intellectual bravery as prime examples.

“Challenge yourself. Be brave and be curious. Go outside your comfort zone and explore new things. You may discover passions you did not know you had,’” Agnew said.

Before the conclusion of the program, the newest students to enter Syracuse University recited the charge and sang the alma mater. The next time they will all be together in the JMA Dome will be for their Commencement in May 2028.

New students recited the charge and sang the alma mater. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

As we celebrate 80 years of the Goon Squad welcoming new students to campus, Sue Weber and Jack Withee reminisce about their experiences moving into Syracuse University, discuss when they knew they wanted to join the Goon Squad and explore the group’s lasting impact and legacy.

When the Goon Squad first formed in 1944, its original purpose was to reinforce Syracuse University’s campuswide policy requiring all new students to wear beanie caps during their first semester on campus.

Sue Weber ’68 fondly recalls wearing her beanie when she arrived in the fall of 1964, and her beanie and the straw Goon Squad hat she received when she joined as a sophomore are among her most precious Syracuse University mementos.

While first-year students are no longer obligated to wear their class beanie—which was the custom, along with doffing their caps as a sign of respect when in the presence of older students—the  still plays a role as one of the most impactful traditions on campus.

Sue and Eric Weber

Celebrating 80 years of making a difference in the lives of first-year students, the Goon Squad—featuring more than 550 student leaders—will greet new students and lend a hand during move-in at residence halls as part of , the University’s new student orientation program.

“I went to a very small [high] school, and when you joined a group like the Goon Squad, it immediately gave you a bunch of great friends. I still have those friendships today,” says Weber, who earned an illustration degree from the School of Art (now part of the ) and met her husband, Eric, on campus. “I can’t believe the Goon Squad is turning 80 years old. Such great memories!”

This year, the University is preparing to welcome more than 4,000 first-year students. International students arrive Friday, while domestic students move in Aug. 19-21 and embark on a week filled with programs that introduce new students and their loved ones to life on campus through academic and social events.

Jack Withee

“We make sure the move-in environment is the most welcoming and inclusive it can be. We’re the first face of the Syracuse community that these students are being introduced to,” says Jack Withee ’26, an inclusive elementary and special education major in the . “When the Goon Squad helps them move in, they haven’t met the students on their floor yet. We’re greeting them at the door as they come to campus, so it’s important from the get-go that we set the tone that this is your new home.”

In this “’Cuse Conversation,” Weber and Withee reminisce about their own experiences moving into Syracuse University, share when they knew they wanted to join the Goon Squad and discuss the lasting impact and legacy of the Goon Squad.

Check out featuring Weber and Withee. A transcript [PDF] is also available.

How did the Goon Squad help with your move-in?

Jack Withee: I was so excited to get to campus and start the journey to become the person I always wanted to be. But your first day is so nerve-wracking. Luckily, I had this woman, Erin, who moved me in. I remember as she was moving me in, she looked me in the eyes and told me that I was going to be okay. She truly made me believe it, and that made me realize I was ready to spread my wings and that I can do this. That’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my time on campus, and that’s something I tell every single one of the students I help move in.

Sue Weber: My freshman year I lived in Washington Arms, which was used as a dining room for the Peace Corps at the time. During what was a chaotic time, I was so thankful for the Goon Squad. They took me aside and welcomed me to campus. I was on the fifth floor, so they helped me put all my stuff in the elevator and answered the questions my mom and dad had. The Goon Squad was just wonderful and very helpful, and we were so happy they were there to help.

When did you know you wanted to give back and join the Goon Squad?

Weber: I absolutely knew I wanted to give back and join the Goon Squad when it was my turn. I remember how overwhelmed I felt coming to campus from a small school and a small town into this huge university. I know how that made me feel and I always wanted the classes behind me to feel the same way that I felt because of the Goon Squad. I wanted them to feel welcomed and know that they made the right choice coming to Syracuse University.

Withee: Whenever I saw Erin [who helped me during move-in] on campus, I would realize how much I had grown since move-in, and to think she jump-started that growth by helping me get on my feet and start the year on a level playing field. She made me want to pay it forward and give back to the first-year students who came after me.

How would you describe the lasting impact and legacy of the Goon Squad here on campus?

Weber: It’s a testament to how important it is and how people feel about it. It leaves a lasting memory. It’s something that made you feel good then and something that makes me feel really good now. It’s just a wonderful thing to introduce people to a big campus that can be very overwhelming, and you don’t forget the help you received from the Goon Squad.

Withee: The presence the Goon Squad has on campus is so powerful. You only move into Syracuse University once and no one forgets the people who move them in. That sticks with you, this spirit of the campus community being there to help each other out when you really need the help. It’s an honor to help first-year students. Syracuse has provided me with so many opportunities to be the person I’ve always wanted to become, and I’m so grateful.

Note: This conversation was edited for brevity and clarity.

What is the most important item(s) you bring to campus with you?

Nkongnyu with his family during his move in as a first-year student

Nkongnyu: My essentials include my laptop, notebook/journal, crocs, headphones, bookbag and pens.

Washington: My essentials include an umbrella, a silicone ice cube tray, velcro strips, a toolbox (which is crucial for move-in day), command hooks, chip clips, a mini fan (for the initial heat of the semester), my insurance card, a small first aid kit, Ziploc bags, shower shoes, a shower caddy and a selection of emergency medications and Vitamin C packets, as many students tend to get sick during the first few weeks. A decent-sized trash can is also key.

What’s your favorite spot to study on campus?

Washington and her mom in her room during her move-in as a first-year student.

Nkongnyu: I have many hidden spots on campus that I gatekeep, but I’ll name one: .

Washington: My favorite study spot is the third floor of the Schine. It provides a serene environment with an excellent view, making it perfect for focused study sessions.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self when you started at Syracuse?

Nkongnyu: Don’t be afraid to follow your spirit. If you seek it and work toward it, you will make your dream a reality. Destiny can only be delayed but never denied.

Washington: Be more compassionate and patient with my own expectations. College is a significant transition, and adjusting to life away from home while navigating academic challenges can be overwhelming. Remember, one disappointing grade doesn’t define your entire experience—allow yourself grace and take full advantage of the professor’s office hours!

In addition to the great advice from Nkongnyu and Washington on what to pack and what to leave at home, our friends in New Student Programs have put together several to help you pack.

First, let’s start with the list of things you can definitely leave at home:

• Large appliances, including air conditioners (only refrigerators less than five cubic feet and microwaves less than 1,000 watts are permitted)
• Cooking appliances: ovens, hotplates, toasters, toaster ovens, crockpots, grills (including “George Foreman-type” grills) and other similar devices
• Fire safety hazards, like space heaters, candles and incense
• Wall-mounted TVs (only free-standing TVs are permitted)
• Firearms, weapons and fireworks
• ALL general-purpose extension cords (even UL-approved; only UL-listed grounded power strips with built-in fuse circuit breaker are permitted)
• Halogen lamps and multi-head floor lamps
• Large pieces of furniture
• Pets (service or emotional support animals must be approved)
• Expensive or irreplaceable collectibles or jewelry

Next, here are some must-haves to have with you while you are on campus:

• Bedding, including XL twin sheets and comforter and a mattress pad
• Clothing for multiple seasons. Remember, Syracuse is hot in late August, and winter weather arrives just a few short months later. It’s important to have a heavy winter coat, warm winter boots, gloves/mittens and a hat as you navigate campus.
• UL-listed grounded power strip with built-in fuse or circuit breaker
• Personal hygiene items, shower shoes and a bathrobe
• Laundry basket/bag and detergent
• Umbrella with rain jacket and boots

Visit the for a full list of what you should pack and what to leave at home.

New students move into the residence halls with help from orientation leaders, volunteers and the Goon Squad. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

New students move into the residence halls with help from orientation leaders, volunteers and the Goon Squad. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

With just a few days away, there is so much for new students to do and so many opportunities to learn about everything Syracuse University! SU News has put together a summary of links and things you need to know.

OrangeNow Mobile App

Have Welcome Week information at the tip of your fingers by downloading the new  before heading to campus! The app, available on the �����Ի���, provides convenient access to campus maps; transit, parking, dining and Wi-Fi information; event schedules and much more.

Schedules

There are so many fun and informative events planned in and around campus during Welcome Week. There is something for everyone! Below you will find links to the various schedules available for those who are participating in Welcome Week:

• : This link includes every event during Welcome Week, including some that do not apply to some students.
• : This link includes all events where parents, families and supporters are invited, including some that may not apply to all parents, families and supporters.
• : International undergraduate students are required to attend the international student orientation, Aug. 17-21. After international student orientation, undergraduates should plan to attend all required Welcome Week programming, Aug. 22-25.
• Schools and Colleges Schedules: In addition to the Universitywide events, students have required and optional events to attend hosted by their home school or college. Included in each schedule below are Welcome Week Signature Events, family and supporter events specific to that school or college and required events for students in each school or college. If you are a student who is dually enrolled, you should follow the schedule for your home school or college. If you have a dual advising meeting, it will be reflected in that schedule.

Orange Celebration Event (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Campus Hours of Operation

To meet the needs of our new and returning students, many campus offices will have extended hours to accommodate the needs of those moving to campus, including the following:

• Apartment and Off-Campus Living | Student Living
• Center for Disability Resources
• Center for International Services
• College of Professional Studies
• Counseling at the Barnes Center at The Arch
• Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs
• Food Services
• Goldstein Student Center
• Health Care and Pharmacy at the Barnes Center at The Arch
• Housing, Meal Plan, and I.D. Card Services
• Information Technology Services
• Office of the Bursar
• Office of the Registrar
• Parking and Transportation Services
• Recreation and Fitness Center at the Barnes Center at The Arch
• Residence Hall Check-In
• Schine Student Center
• Student Employment
• Student Outreach and Support
• Syracuse University Campus Store
• Syracuse University Libraries
• Undergraduate and Graduate Enrollment Processing Center

Specific hours and the best way to connect with each of the teams listed above is .

First-year students enjoying local food and performances at Citrus in the City (Photo by Max Walewski)

Fun Events to Check Out

There is so much to do and so much to see. Check out some of these events you just don’t want to miss!

Tuesday, Aug. 20 

• (8:30-10 p.m.)

Wednesday, Aug. 21 

• (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
• (6-8 p.m.)
• (6:30-7:45 p.m.)
• (8:15-9:30 p.m.)

Thursday, Aug. 22

• (10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
• (8-10 p.m.)

Friday, Aug. 23 

• (8-10 p.m.)

Saturday, Aug. 24

• (5:30-8 p.m.)
• (8:30-10 p.m.)

Welcome Week Living Learning Communities orientation picnic (Photo by Max Walewski)

Important Links

New students enjoying the therapy dogs during the Barnes Center kickoff event (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

• Bird Library
  • Lower level to second floor:
    • Monday through Thursday: 24 hours
    • Friday: Closes at 10 p.m.
    • Saturday: Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
    • Sunday: Reopens at 10 a.m.
  • Floors three to five:
    • Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to midnight
    • Friday: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
    • Saturday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
    • Sunday: 10 a.m. to midnight
  • Sixth floor, including Special Collections Research Center:
    • Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays to 7 p.m.
• Carnegie Library
  • Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• King + King Architecture Library
  • Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Sunday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• College of Law Library
  • Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: Closed

The Libraries is participating in several Welcome Week activities as students return to campus, including:

• Family Lounge outside of Bird Library (Einhorn Walk side) and Carnegie Library (Shaw Quadrangle entrance) on Wednesday, Aug. 21, and Thursday, Aug. 22, from 12 to 4 p.m. each day. Students, their families and supporters are invited to take a break from moving into the residence halls to learn about the Libraries. Snacks and beverages will be provided, as well as Libraries information. Library tours will be available by request.

• Welcome Fest in Bird Library’s First Floor on Thursday, Aug. 29 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All students are invited to attend this open house-style event with tables highlighting the many offerings of the Libraries, several partners and other campus departments. Students can stop by to participate in raffles, snacks and a “passport” activity encouraging participants to visit all tables.

2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering (Photo by Angela Ryan)

The Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering is an event held on campus to welcome all incoming and returning students, faculty and staff for the 2024-25 academic year, and for all to show respect for the Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands Syracuse University now stands. Schenandoah is a citizen of the Oneida Nation and a Wolf Clan Faithkeeper, as well as . The Haudenosaunee Confederacy is comprised of Six Nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora.

This year’s featured speaker, Wakerahkáhtste Louise McDonald Herne, is a Bear Clan Mother for the Mohawk Nation Council. Wakerahkáhtste presented at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and lectures regularly at universities throughout Canada and the United States on Ratinonhsón:ni philosophies and self-determination regarding the rights of women. Wakerahkáhtste has been the Distinguished Scholar in Indigenous Learning at McMaster University Institute for Innovation and Excellence in Teaching and Learning (MIIETL) and received an honorary doctorate from State University of New York at Canton. Her most recent work includes a feature in the award-winning documentary film, “Without a Whisper: Konnon:kwe” about the Ratinonhsón:ni women’s influence on the women’s rights movement.

Diane Schenandoah, Faithkeeper of the Wolf Clan, Oneida Nation, speaks at the 2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

“This land is sacred. We welcome visitors to be part of this sacred place. Part of our teaching is that no one can own the land, so it’s important to remember that Syracuse University is part of a much bigger picture,” says Schenandoah. “It’s important to acknowledge and recognize that there are Indigenous peoples still here and we are standing in the capital of the Haudenosaunee territory.”

At the gathering, speakers and dancers will welcome a new academic year. Hot scones and strawberry drink will be offered. The hot scones are derived from traditional breads and the strawberry drink consists of strawberries, maple syrup and water. “This is significant because strawberries are the leaders of the plants and maples are the leaders of the trees. In this way we honor them,” says Schenandoah.

Schenandoah encourages students, faculty and staff to participate in the Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. “We are sharing our culture because the Earth is calling to us to pay attention, we require collective healing, and most importantly, we are inviting our community to live in gratitude,” she says.

For more information on this and other Hendricks Chapel programs and services visit .

Making lifelong friends starts at Syracuse Welcome! (Photo by Angela Ryan)

Syracuse Welcome festivities were held last week, introducing nearly 4,000 new members of the Orange community to all that Syracuse has to offer.

From moving in to their residence halls to swaying to the alma mater during New Student Convocation to experimenting fun on the Quad and at the Barnes Center for the first time, the University’s photographers captured so much of the magic that comes with a new school year. Enjoy some of the highlights from this year below!

New Student Convocation marks the official opening of the University and the beginning of new students’ journey at Syracuse. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Orientation leaders and volunteers helped to make sure move-in went as smooth as possible for everyone. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

Who can resist a hug from Otto the Orange?! (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

A special dinner was held to welcome our newest international students to campus. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Move-in can often be a family affair. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

Chancellor Kent Syverud addresses the Class of 2027 during New Student Convocation. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Sometimes the friends you make at the Barnes Center at The Arch are of the four-legged variety. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Volleyball was one of many activities to be enjoyed during international student game night at the Barnes Center. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

New students sway together while singing the alma mater at New Student Convocation—a time-honored University tradition. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Citrus in the City is held each year to give new students an opportunity to get acquainted with downtown Syracuse. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

A picnic was held for students who take part in one of the many living learning communities on campus. (Photo by Max Walewski)

Provost Gretchen Ritter speaks to the crowd of students and families at New Student Convocation. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The Class of 2027 creates a giant Block S formation on the field of the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo by Joseph Heslin)

Goon Squad members help haul items to a residence hall during move-in. (Photo by Alex Dunbar)

During the international student talent show, the audience responds to a performance by lighting up their phone flashlights. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

New student veterans had the opportunity to get familiar with various resources available on campus during their orientation event. (Photo by Randy Pellis)

A student performs during the international student talent show. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The Syracuse Welcome Fête, a celebration of the BIPOC student experience at Syracuse, included performances by various student organizations. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Students are all smiles at the Dome Sweet Dome event. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The Y2K Party on the Quad was lit (and so were Otto’s pants). (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Students from living learning communities play games together on the Quad. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Members of the marching band arrive for Citrus in the City in downtown Syracuse. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Things got competitive during The Slice is Right game show held in the JMA Dome. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

Welcome to the Orange family! Make the most of the next four years. (Photo by Max Walewski)

With pomp and circumstance—including their first time singing the alma mater, the newest members of the Orange family were given a rousing, official welcome to the University during New Student Convocation Thursday in the JMA Wireless Dome.

An annual tradition, the academic program includes leadership and faculty processing into the JMA Dome with full regalia. As a highlight of Syracuse Welcome, it’s also the first time new students gather together as a class.

Family members were there to cheer on their students, share dinner on the turf after the ceremony and say their goodbyes, as classes start next week.

The nearly 4,000 new and transfer students hail from 48 states, including Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico; 14 indigenous nations and 56 countries from around the world. University leaders and student speakers imparted advice, words of wisdom and posed thoughtful questions to the new students, embarking on this new journey.

Thomas O’Brien (Photos by Jeremy Brinn)

Food for Thought From an Upperclass Student

“Today, I ask you a question, a question that will guide the choices you make and the experiences you encounter during your tenure at this university, and that question is ‘what is your purpose here?’” asked Thomas O’Brien ’25, a film major in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the student speaker.

O’Brien then shared his experience as a first-year student and how it did not go as how he had expected but realized it was on himself to make a change. “Opportunities are not handed to you, but rather you must be open to find and seek the opportunities that already surround you on this campus,” he said.

“Understand, whatever you believe your purpose is here, know that Syracuse University will provide you with the resources you need to succeed,” O’Brien said. “However, it is up to you to pursue the things you want to achieve and pursue them with a confidence and a belief that they will come true.”

Two Pieces of Wisdom From the Chancellor

Chancellor Kent Syverud offered two pieces of advice to new students.

The first: come as you are. “If you have not figured it out already, you will pretty soon: there is no one way of thinking, no one way of dressing, no one person who is the ‘normal’ here. People are unique and amazing and dazzlingly different. And that’s why it’s wonderful. Given that there is no ‘normal’ here, why not try just being yourself here. Not the image of perfection that appears on social media, not the identical replica of someone else, but please just be you. I believe you will find that if you come as you are here, you will become Orange.”

The second piece of advice from the Chancellor: Become more Syracuse. “That’s the common thread in all the speeches you are hearing this week. People are trying to tell you to wake up. You have a chance that has been denied to so many people in this world: a chance to be part of a great university. So, take it. Please become more here, in your own unique and defining way. That’s what so many people have done before you, and you can too.”

Chancellor Kent Syverud addresses students and their families during New Student Convocation.

Dare to Be Fearless in Your Journey

“Every one of you have earned your place here and every one of you deserves to be here,” said Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer, sharing how 42,500 individuals applied to be part of the new first-year class and 1,600 applied to be transfer students.

“When you are here in these coming days and years, I want you to fearlessly explore many new ideas and expose yourself to diverse points of views,” said Groves. “You are living in a time in which social media algorithms feed you what it believes and analyzes that you already believe and think, and intentionally screen out from you ideas and viewpoints that do not match your own.

“So, you’re going to have to take the initiative and take full advantage of the next few years and open yourself to talking with and engaging with people different from you. I hope you are willing to debate big contentious ideas, respectfully, listening probably more than talking because listening is where true knowledge is gained.”

Endless Possibilities

Nearly 4,000 new and transfer students gather during the New Student Convocation ceremony.

“Today you open the door to possibility—the possibility of who you will be as a student here, and the possibility of who you will become in the future,” said Gretchen Ritter, vice chancellor, provost and chief academic officer.

Provost Ritter shared there are many ways for students to seize that possibility, noting research, experiential learning and intellectual bravery as prime examples.

“There are so many things you can do as a student here. There are paths to discovery and paths that you will forge. In all of this, I challenge you to embrace the insight offered by the great education philosopher John Dewey more a century ago when he wrote that ‘Every great advance in science has issued from an audacity of imagination,’” Ritter said.

Before the conclusion of the program, the newest students to enter Syracuse University recited the charge and sang the alma mater. The next time they will all be together in the JMA Dome will be for their Commencement.

To start, we have put together advice from upperclass students on how to manage your first year here at Syracuse. We asked them to share advice on what they wish they had known as a first-year student. Here’s what they said:

Theodore (Teddy) Brendel during his first week at Syracuse.

Jordan Bullock ’24 | Television, Radio and Film, Newhouse School

I wish I had known to take advantage of every aspect of my dreams when I was a first-year student. If you’re into magazines, apply to be a part of a campus magazine. If you like to dance, find you some people to dance with. Any tiny aspect of your interests, explore it and engage in it. There is so much to access at Syracuse University, and I wish I had known to take advantage of that access in my first year.

Theodore (Teddy) Brendel ’26 | Musical Theater, College of Visual and Performing Arts

As a first-year student, I wish I knew the importance of putting yourself out there. Although I made a lot of new friends during my first year, I never thought about how every other first-year student is trying to meet as many new people as possible, and how normal it is to just strike up conversation with other students.

Natalia I. Cancel-Quintana during her first day at Syracuse.

Natalia I. Cancel-Quintana ’26 | Biochemistry, College of Arts and Sciences

As a first-year student, I wish I knew that it’s normal to take time adjusting to a new environment and it’s okay to go at your own pace. Finding the perfect balance for you will be crucial to your long-term success.

Katherine Keane ’25 | Policy Studies, Newhouse and Maxwell School

I wish I knew how much getting involved can make the transition to college easier. My first semester here I joined a bunch of , and not only did it give me something to look forward to after classes, but it gave me a supportive group of friends that I am still close to today.

Mary Kennelly ’24 | Communications Design, College of Visual and Performing Arts

Mary Kennelly during her first day at Syracuse.

I wish I had known that it is best to be your authentic self when meeting new people, and to not be afraid to do so. I had the tendency to self-isolate because I was too nervous to reach out to people, but biting the bullet and making yourself uncomfortable is really what makes you those lifelong connections.

In addition to the advice from the upperclass students, the following is a list of on campus resources that may be useful to you during your time at Syracuse:

The experience and process of onboarding to the University as a new graduate student can vary widely from the ways undergraduate students acclimate to campus. Graduate students, to speak generally, tend to be older, have more academic experience under their belt and may prefer to be more self-sufficient when it comes to adjusting to life in a new environment.

Ensuring graduate students feel welcome, valued and well-oriented to campus resources is an important goal of the , as well as graduate programs across schools and colleges. As the fall semester gets underway, here are six ways to start your graduate student experience off on a high note.

1. Attend Graduate Student Welcome on Aug. 26.

New graduate students are invited to come celebrate the start of the semester by attending a with Provost Gretchen Ritter and Graduate School Dean Peter Vanable. An information/resource session will be held in Schine Student Center’s Goldstein Auditorium beginning at 2 p.m., followed by a picnic on the Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle with free food, refreshments, music and the opportunity to socialize with fellow graduate students.

An abundance of orientation activities are also held by the individual schools/colleges at Syracuse. Look for more information from your school/college for any sessions pertinent to graduate students.

2. Join a student organization or affinity group.

This Saturday’s welcome picnic will also introduce you to various student groups via an engagement fair, so you can learn how to get involved in campus and community activities. Two groups you may want to join as you start your graduate career include:

• The (GSO) represents graduate students in the University Senate and to the University leadership, allowing graduate students a voice in the operations of the larger University. To learn more about the GSO and how to get involved, attend the GSO Town Hall on Wednesday, Aug. 30, at 5:30 p.m. in Maxwell Auditorium or join your fellow graduates at the first GSO Senate meeting of the season on Wednesday, Sept. 6, at 5:30 p.m. in Maxwell Auditorium. Follow that up with free food and fun at the GSO’s Fall Welcome Picnic on Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Women’s Building field.
• The (GBSA) focused on fostering academic success and building community in support of graduate students who self-identify as Black, Indigenous or other persons of color.

There are also a breadth of graduate student organizations formed around academic programs (i.e., Graduate Students of Architecture), as well as groups celebrating cultural identities and shared interests (i.e., Graduate Chess Club, Indigenous Graduate Student Association). .

3. Stay tuned for social opportunities organized by the Graduate School this fall.

Looking for informal and low-pressure ways to get to know other graduate students or branch out from the peers in your academic program? The Grad Social Spot offers monthly opportunities for relaxed conversation and community building—often with snacks!

and events are already on the calendar, with additional ones to come. Be sure to read your Graduate School newsletter, sent by email, for more community-building events, including occasional off-campus outings like snow tubing and apple picking!

4. Engage with career/professional development resources early and often.

Did you know that the Graduate School houses its own to help students at every stage of their graduate or postdoctoral journey? Professional staff members can assist you with career exploration and planning, resume review, preparing to become a teaching assistant (TA) or aspiring faculty development. They can also likely point you to dedicated career development resources in your school or college for more specialized support in your field of study.

5. Looking for a campus job? Get familiar with Handshake.

Handshake is the University’s centralized career management tool, and it’s where any TA, graduate assistant or research assistant jobs with the University will be posted. A swath of information and resources on Handshake is available on the .

6. Immerse yourself further by downloading University podcasts.

If podcasts are your thing, we encourage you to check out and/or subscribe to the produced by the Graduate School, and “’Cuse Conversations,” a Universitywide podcast produced by the Division of Communications.

New episodes of the “Gradcast” will start up again this fall highlighting such topics as professional and career development, alumni of Syracuse graduate programs and upcoming Graduate School events. “’Cuse Conversations” drops new episodes twice per month featuring the inspiring stories of the University’s talented students, decorated faculty members, dedicated staff members and accomplished alumni. Both are available wherever you get podcasts.

Bird Library:

• Lower level to second floor: Open 24 hours Monday through Thursday, Friday closes at 10 p.m., Saturday open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday reopens at 10 a.m.
• Floors three to five: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to midnight, Friday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to midnight
• Sixth floor, including Special Collections Research Center: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays to 7 p.m.

Carnegie Library: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

King + King Architecture Library: Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

College of Law Library: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Saturdays and Sundays

The Libraries is participating in several Syracuse Welcome activities as students return to campus, including:

• Family Lounge outside of Bird Library (Einhorn Walk side) and Carnegie Library (Shaw Quadrangle entrance) on Wednesday, August 23, and Thursday, August 24, from 12-4 p.m. each day. Students and their families are invited to take a break from moving into the residence halls to learn about the Libraries. Snacks and beverages will be provided, as well as Library information. Library tours will be available by request.

• Welcome Fest on Bird Library’s first floor will be held on Thursday, August 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All students are invited to attend this open house-style event with tables highlighting the many offerings of the Libraries, several partners and other campus departments. Students can stop by to participate in raffles, photos and a “passport” activity encouraging participants to visit all tables.

During Syracuse Welcome, New Student Programs will be available in-person on the Einhorn Family Walk or via phone at 315.443.9187 during the following hours (all listings are in Eastern Time):

• Einhorn Family Walk: Tuesday, Aug. 22, noon to 5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 23, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, Aug. 24, 9 a.m. to noon
• Phone: Monday, Aug. 21-Friday, Aug. 25, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

New Student Programs is also available via email at welcome@syr.edu.

The following offices will be open on Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27:

• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. on (24-hour operation begins Aug. 28)
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 1 to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, closed; Sunday, Aug. 27, noon to 8 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (in person); Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (remote)
• : Saturday, Aug. 26 and Sunday, Aug. 27, noon to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 1 to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 1 to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 27, 7:30 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• : Hours vary by location. Visit the for more information.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 27, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, noon to 5 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, closed.; Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 27, noon to 3 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 1 to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, noon to 11 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Note: during this time will be located at the job fair in 227-229 Schine Student Center); Sunday, Aug. 27, 1 to 4 p.m. Please note, I-9 completion is done through an online portal.
• Undergraduate/Graduate Enrollment Processing Center: Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 26, and Sunday, Aug. 27, 7:30 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Every effort has been made to ensure campus buildings are unlocked with lights and air conditioning on to accommodate the office hours above. Should you encounter a situation where your building is locked or an issue with air conditioning, please call Energy Management at 315.443.1535 for 24-hour assistance.

About Syracuse Welcome

Syracuse Welcome is the University’s new student orientation program for incoming undergraduate students. This year, new students will arrive first with international students on Aug. 18, followed by the full first-year class Aug. 22-24, and returning students Aug. 25-27.

Visit the University Events Calendar for the full .

Acknowledging the unique needs of students who are not only acclimating to a new university but oftentimes a new country and culture, the , in collaboration with a host of campus partners, will offer dozens of welcome events customized for both graduate and undergraduate international students.

, beginning Aug. 18, provides a strong foundation for the academic and extracurricular pursuits that await students this fall. “Our international students go through a lengthy process to get here,” says Juan Tavares, director of the Center for International Services. “First, they have to apply for a student visa, which is a time-consuming and expensive process. Many are coming to the U.S. for the first time and have very long flights. It’s important that we give them the best launch possible by providing a welcome experience that encompasses as many events as we can fit in.”

Opportunities for International Graduate Students

Meeti Shah

Meeti Shah G’24 is an international student from Mumbai, India, entering her second year of graduate study in the . She sees serving as a (WAI) as a way to “pay it forward” to younger, less experienced students after greatly benefiting from the guidance of other graduate students last summer when she arrived in Syracuse for the first time.

“It was difficult for me in the start, considering I was coming to a new country with so many differences—differences in how travel works, in how you interact with people,” Shah says. “When I came to orientation, the ambassadors were so helpful in giving us campus tours, acclimating us to the resources available at the University and answering our questions. I’ve always been inspired to help people in the same way that others helped me.”

Orientation activities for international graduate students are held this weekend and highlights include:

• Campus tour and ice cream social with current graduate students—Aug. 18, 6-8 p.m.
• Game night at the Barnes Center at The Arch—Aug. 18, 8:15-10 p.m.
• Presentations on health and wellness, personal and public safety, and resources and success tips for new graduate students—Aug. 19, various times
• Lunch on the Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle—Aug. 19, 12:45-2 p.m.
• Shuttle bus shopping trips to Target and Destiny USA mall—Aug. 20, various times

“The campus tours are something I’m looking forward to because it gets new students excited for how big the campus is and what things here will excite and inspire them,” says Shah. “And of course, the ice cream party—last year we had so much fun eating ice cream and then playing games in the . We played badminton until they asked us to leave!”

A Warm Welcome for International Undergraduates

For undergraduate students, residence hall move-in begins Friday, Aug. 18, and there are several days of activities specifically designed for international students prior to general activities kicking off Aug. 24. It is also critical for international undergraduate students to complete the upon arriving in the United States.

Yida He

Yida He ’26, an international relations major in the from Xinjiang, China, serves as a member of the Goon Squad and as a WAI. He attended every single undergraduate orientation activity last year, his first year as an ambassador.

“These activities are opportunities to help others and make new friends, but serving as a WAI also helped me to know the school and its resources better,” He says. “To help others, I must see every detail, like campus tours and school medical services, so this has been a process of both teaching and learning.”

His favorite activity, besides showing new students around campus, is the shuttle bus trips to the local mall and Target retail store, which allow students to purchase essentials that may not have been practical to pack for international travel.

Fellow WAI Alex Snioch ’26, a health and exercise science major in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, came to the University from Massachusetts but is originally from Poland. She got involved with the Center for International Services based on her own yearning for shared culture and community as a first-year student.

Alex Snioch

“When I arrived, I wanted to connect with other European students on campus and I struggled finding that,” she says. “I visited the international center to see what programs may be available and ended up getting involved with the . I saw how much the students appreciated the opportunity to feel like they were at home with others for just an hour.”

Snioch says this inspired her to become a WAI, knowing she could aid new international students in feeling more comfortable on campus, creating connections and friendships and becoming acquainted with various resources—from help finding a job on campus to all the health, wellness and medical services available at the Barnes Center.

Her advice to incoming international students is to not be hesitant to ask questions. “Reaching out for help and being vulnerable is not a bad thing!” she says. “There are a lot of resources on campus but sometimes it’s tricky figuring out where to go for what. But in my experience, people are happy to help—all you have to do is ask.”

There is no shortage of both educational and social opportunities coming up for undergraduate international students to get more familiar with the school and the Syracuse area, including:

• Shuttle bus trips to Target and Destiny USA Mall—Aug. 20, various times
• International student welcome meeting (required)—Aug. 21, 10-11 a.m.
• Immigration essentials presentation; two sessions available (required)—Aug. 21, 1-2 p.m., or Aug. 22, 2-3 p.m.
• Personal and public safety presentation (required)—Aug. 21, 2-3 p.m.
• International talent show—Aug. 21, 6-7 p.m.
• Health and wellness presentation (required)—Aug. 22, 10-11 a.m.
• Community standards and academic integrity presentation (required)—Aug. 22, 3-4 p.m.
• International student welcome dinner—Aug. 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• On-campus resources presentation (required)—Aug. 23, 10-11 a.m.
• Career Services and on-campus employment presentation (required)—Aug. 23, 11:15 a.m.-noon

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Students gather at Syracuse Welcome 2022. (Photo by Estheralice Lopez)

Syracuse Welcome represents the first steps in a student’s Syracuse journey, an odyssey that can feel overwhelming to students and family members alike, with changes to many facets of their daily life.

Luckily for everyone participating, as soon as last year’s orientation program concluded, and her team started preparing for this year’s welcome events. Abbott serves as the director of , and this will be her 20th consecutive year helping with Syracuse Welcome.

“It’s a joy and an honor to be a partner in the student’s experience when they arrive on campus. To be there for the new students, for their families and their supporters is really a magical moment,” Abbott says. “My team and all of the University colleagues who volunteer for move-in do such a wonderful job greeting these students and truly welcoming them to the Orange family. It’s remarkable how the campus comes together to welcome and support our new students.”

For 20 years, Carrie Grogan Abbott G’03 has been assisting with Syracuse Welcome, the University’s new student orientation program.

At some point during the summer, many of these students attended a new student send-off in their hometown, a unique opportunity to meet fellow incoming students and network with both current students and recent alumni from their area.

Once they arrive in Syracuse, the weeklong orientation is filled with programs designed to make new students and their family members feel at home through engaging academic and social events, including , a key component of Syracuse Welcome. The end goal? Helping students feel a sense of belonging to the Syracuse University community from their first day on campus.

On this “’Cuse Conversation,” Abbott shares why Syracuse Welcome is the perfect way to introduce new students to campus, reflects on the pivotal role the Goon Squad plays during move-in and offers up advice to ensure the earliest days on campus run smoothly.

Check out episode 145 of the featuring Abbott. A transcript [PDF] is also available.