22 August 2024
The excitement was palpable as the Class of 2028 began their journey at The Catholic University of America and moved into their on-campus dormitories on a sunny Thursday morning.
Cars filled with boxes, furniture and more lined up as volunteers (including University President Peter Kilpatrick) greeted families and helped unload the new Cardinals’ belongings. Community members cheered families on as they arrived, directed traffic, checked in new students and answered any questions.
“This is one of my favorite days of the year,” Kilpatrick said. “I’m always proud to see how hard our current students work to help freshmen move in. They are what make Catholic University such a warm and welcoming place.”
Emily Janka, BS Arch. 1998, said the move-in crews made everything a breeze on her daughter’s big day.
“What took us two days to put in the car, they took it out again in five minutes,” she said.
This is all part of a culture of hospitality that is passed down from one generation of students to the next.
“You only get one first impression,” said Resident Assistant Jonathan Patron as he stood on the sidewalk of Centennial Village handing out parking tickets and giving directions to families.
Anisa Ellis, student orientation coordinator and final-year nursing student, said when she moved in, the smooth and friendly process made her family feel like they were in good hands, a feeling she wants to convey to every student and family when they arrive.
“It’s about meeting and welcoming each student where they are,” Ellis said before running off to help another student. “We give everything you don’t find at other schools.”
This year’s move-in day theme was Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, with an atmospheric soundtrack and dorm decorations inspired by fan-favorite friendship bracelets. To take the energetic and warm welcome to a new level, Campus Ministry also blessed the dorms.
But for many, especially parents, the day was bittersweet.
“She is the first to leave home,” said Laurie Becker of her daughter, theology student Julie.
This is especially important for new students who are following in their parents’ footsteps and beginning their studies.
David Vogt, BS 1989, B.Arch. 1990, and his wife, Marie, BS 1989, B.Arch. 1990, met as architecture students on campus. At the annual luncheon for former students and their families at the Craves Alumni Center, once the campus bar affectionately known as “The Rat,” they shared memories with their daughter Rebecca. She looks forward to making some of her own as a nursing student.
“I am looking forward to meeting new friends and being part of the first class to be taught in the new nursing building,” she said of the new home of the Conway School of Nursing.
And the excitement is just beginning. It is the first day of a packed orientation weekend These include Playfair, a late breakfast, workshops and much more.
