With over 700 new students, Welcome Weekend was a great way for new polar bears to get to know each other. Welcome Weekend kicked off on Thursday, Aug. 20, with move-in day joined by the Klondike’s Crew. The day ended with a farewell picnic and Playfair in the fieldhouse. Playfair gave students the opportunity to interact with each other from dancing back-to-back to the ultimate battle of rock, paper, and scissors.
On Friday, new students and their orientation leader groups started off with the ONU photo challenge. Students explored campus and learned about important locations while taking pictures and having fun. The real fun did not really start until later that night with the Life Block party and afterwards the Student Planning Committee event. At the Life Block party students danced, played games, and ate delicious treats such as funnel cakes and cotton candy.
One of the student’s favorite events from the weekend was when SPC brought in “The Norman Magic Experience.” Magician Norman NG, not only amazed students with his mind boggling tricks, but also kept students laughing with his witty humor.
On Saturday morning, many students participated in Ada Civic Engagement Day, also known as ACE Day, where students helped voluntarily helped the Ada community with needs such as cleaning and landscaping.
Later on Saturday evening students had the opportunity to learn about Greek Life at Greekapalooza. One of the last events of Welcome Weekend was OTRimprov. OTRimprov is an improv group out of Cincinnati, Ohio, who had students constantly laughing at jokes and comical skits. Welcome Weekend concluded on Sunday with Welcome Fest and showing of Pitch Perfect 2 on the Tundra.
Students who attended Welcome Weekend had endless opportunities to learn about and join clubs throughout campus. To end Welcome Weekend students gathered at King Horn to watch Pitch Perfect 2. Welcome Weekend was a successful way for our new polar bears to get to know campus, build friendships and enjoy the many opportunities that ONU has to offer our new freshman. Welcome home, Class of 2019!