More than 1,000 students started their semester off with Welcome Week. The event is the university’s way of helping new students meet each other, as well as learn their way around campus and participate in the university’s traditions.
“Being on campus when all the other students are around makes college seem more real to me,” said Evan Bridges, freshman bio-chemistry major from Allen.
As Welcome Week began, students were put into groups with other students in their freshman CORE class. Students get to know their professors, as well as the upper classmen who volunteer in each group. Together, they participate in activities and group sessions throughout the week.
Activities during Welcome Week included a giant Twister game in Moody Coliseum, a service project, games and classes.
One of the biggest traditions at ACU is Candlelight Devotional, during which the freshmen walk from Moody Coliseum to the Amphitheater while being sung over by their fellow students.
New students enjoy the view outside of the Bible building during the Sunrise Devo. (Optimist photo by Deanna Romero)
“It was very comforting and special to have students sing over us,” said Jamie Thompson, freshman biology major from McKinney. “I actually knew several of the students and one of them even gave me a hug as I walked through, which was really special.”
Such traditions may rarely change, but there were a few differences in this year’s Welcome Week.
Addie Schmitz, a mentor group leader for Welcome Week, said “There are certain things in the schedule that are different, like Twister being shortened and team-building being added,” said the junior youth and family ministry major from Grapevine.
Bowling was also changed to karaoke, and coed volleyball intramurals were added.
Not only are there differences in the activities, but the class size is drastically is different as well.
“This class is so big,” said Schmitz, “which is different and awesome because it creates more excitement for the new year. They are very eager to learn about ACU and life in Abilene.”
Despite the differences in each incoming class, Welcome Week never fails to get the students excited for the upcoming semester.
“I’m most excited about starting my classes and learning new things in a college setting,” said Thompson. “I think ACU will be a good fit and I love the welcoming feel of the campus.”
“My excitement about being at ACU continues to build up every day,” said Bridges. “I’m so stoked to be going to this university and I know that this is where God has lead me and is going to do amazing things here.”
