An estimated 520 new freshmen will move onto the scenic campus of Anderson University Saturday, Aug. 17, as the new academic year gets underway with Welcome Week festivities for new students. If that estimated number holds, it would make this the second largest freshmen class in AU history, less than ten below the record set last year. Also, a near record 115 to 120 transfer students will come to Anderson for a total of 635 to 640 new students. Final numbers will take weeks to compile, but the university expects to reach 3,000 in total enrollment for the first time in its history in 2013.
Saturday’s move-in is one of the highlights of the year as teams of volunteers swarm to the loaded cars and trucks of new students and their families. The volunteers give the newcomers welcoming hugs and move boxes and clothes into residence halls, in some cases, before mom and dad have a chance to turn around. Anticipated unseasonably cool weather promises to be an added bonus for the arriving families.
Sunday, Aug 18, will feature a time-honored tradition for Anderson University students as the incoming freshman class marches under the storied arch at the front of the campus, symbolically beginning their college careers. Graduating students march back through the arch at May commencement, signifying the close of the same. Students and their families will also join with Anderson staff and faculty in a massive matriculation service in Henderson Auditorium, a one-time-a-year tradition.
Starting Sunday, August 18, new students will take part in Welcome Week, a fun, but informative induction to college life, which will run through Tuesday, Aug. 20. Classes begin Wednesday, August 21.