Program aims to help students get their bearings

The Class of 2008 enjoys ice cream during orientation last year at Castle Court.

Orientation.

Does the word bring back memories of your first days at CC? The getting-to-know-you games on the College green? How about the anticipation, excitement and first day jitters?

The beginning of the CC experience is fast approaching for the Class of 2009, and this year the orientation program will mix the traditional — ice breakers and events where freshmen can mingle with faculty and staff — with something new: a country-style fair complete with music, dancing and a watermelon seed spitting contest.

Orientation is designed to help new students get their bearings and make the adjustment to college, their new four-year home, said Andrea Rossi-Reder, CC’s interim dean of freshmen.

“We want to let them know that Connecticut College offers a supportive environment for them,” she said. “We want them to have fun and to look forward to their next four years in a positive way.”

The program offers plenty for parents and families, too. On Saturday, Aug. 27, the day freshman are scheduled to arrive, everyone is invited to tour the campus and attend mini-classes led by faculty and staff to learn more about College programs and life on campus.

Activities for incoming freshmen begin after parents leave and last until the first day of classes on Thursday, Sept. 1. Freshmen will become acquainted with CC organizations, traditions and activities through games and a series of social events, also referred to as the Batch Blast. The blast was established in 1988 by an anonymous donor in honor of Esther Batchelder ’19 and will include a drive-in movie, a special visit from a hypnotist, games on the green and the country fair.

Freshmen will also have the opportunity to meet with their adviser to plan their academic schedule. They will also participate in workshops on such topics as roommate survival skills and the effects of alcohol and chemical abuse.