Orientation was great!

posted by: Nikki

I was so nervous on the ride there, not knowing what to expect, or if I would see any familiar faces. By the time we left on Monday afternoon not only was I so excited about starting in September, I hope that in years to come I can be part of the orientation staff.
Everyone was really nice and very friendly. They supplied us with lots of great information and advice while keeping everyone laughing. The staff was even nice enough to take a picture with me to post with this blog.

As we arrived on Sunday and checked in we had our pictures taken right away (thankfully I did my hair that morning) for our Rider ID's. We also received our schedules on Monday morning before lunch. That was a really exciting time comparing schedules and finding that at least one person you met at orientation would be in your classes.

There were also plenty of opportunities to win free Rider stuff (thanks Esi for my new rider hat). We played icebreakers and answered trivia questions, which helped us learn about Rider while having fun. The bookstore was open so you could stock up on apparel, and I even picked up a few books for fall classes.

My family didn't stay on campus (my mom is an air-conditioning girl) but friends I met who did stay in the residence halls said that a fan was really all you needed to be comfortable. I felt comfortable, welcomed and at ease with everyone. That's one of the things that made me love Rider. I can't wait to start, to meet new friends, be on my own, and yet still feel part of a family.

So it's okay if you're nervous (I had butterflies the whole way), you'll walk away feeling excited, at ease, and independent.

Thank you Orientation Staff and thank you Rider. Here's to the Class of 2010!
-Nikki