Hundreds of Freshmen Travel to Mississippi College Summer Orientations

Mississippi College freshmen orientation leaders strike a funny pose during this photo shoot at Nelson Hall on May 31. More than 200 incoming freshmen will be here for orientation June 2-3.

Hundreds of incoming freshmen will make new friends, meet university leaders, and have a little fun at Mississippi College’s 2016 summer orientations.

The schedule is jam-packed on the Clinton campus for students from across the Southeast and around the nation. It’s meant to be a busy time for parents, too.

Events kick off for more than 200 incoming freshmen June 2-3. Check-in begins Thursday between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. in the lobby of Nelson Hall. MC leaders will toss out the welcome mat to additional waves of new freshmen July 7-8 and July 28-29.

Senior Julianne James first arrived at Mississippi College not knowing anybody. But that changed rapidly when the Huntsville, Alabama resident attended freshmen orientation one summer a few years ago. “It’s a great way to meet people and get involved right off the bat,” says the 20-year-old English education major.

Julianne and Graham Bobo of Clinton are teaming as student orientation leaders this summer. It promises to be a marathon of activities for visiting students – from dodgeball games at the Baptist Healthplex to a party in the Piazza. Over the two days, the incoming freshmen will learn what it’s like to be an MC Choctaw.

Before it’s over, the freshmen will get registered for fall classes, meet key faculty and staff, explore the campus and shop at the businesses along the Brick Streets of Olde Towne Clinton. During day two, student athletes are set for breakfast with the athletic staff in the cafeteria. And there are meetings planned for students to learn about MC’s Office of Christian Development and campus ministries.

Staffers with the MC Office of Student Life are working closely with 27 student orientation leaders with friendly faces to make every visitor feel right at home.

“Being MC” is the theme of this year’s activities. During their stay, new students will get familiar with clubs and tribes, the Student Government Association, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Campus Activities Board, Blue & Gold athletic teams, and learn much more about MC life.

It costs $200 to attend a freshmen orientation in June or July. That includes the price of meals, overnight lodging for one student in the residence halls, and campus materials. Students can invite up to four guests.

Incoming freshmen will meet President Lee Royce, Vice President of Enrollment Services and Dean of Students Jim Turcotte, academic advisors and many others at the nation’s second oldest Baptist college.

MC officials announced separate summer orientations for transfer students June 23 and July 27 at the 2^nd floor of the B.C. Rogers Student Center. The cost is $65. Fall classes begin in late August.