New students welcomed to campus during Freshman Orientation

The University of Illinois Springfield is welcoming more than 300 new students to campus during Freshman Orientation 2011. A total of four different orientation sessions are being held during the months of June and July.

“We have a variety of sessions for both our parents and students that are really going to welcome and acclimate them to the institution,” said Edward Bempong, director of the UIS Center for First Year Students.

For freshman Katie Reynolds of Kewanee, Ill., UIS was her first school of choice. It only took her two visits to campus to realize she had found the perfect fit.

“It’s easier to stand out and be involved and still be part of the community and be a person, instead of a number,” said Katie on UIS’ small campus feel.

She plans to major in Legal Studies and also has an interest in politics. For Katie’s mother, Kim, the choice seemed right.

“I’m excited, thrilled to death,” said Kim. “She’s interested in government and politics, where better (to study) than the state capitol.”

For father Isaac Gary of Chicago it is going to be hard to leave his daughter Lisa behind, but he’s excited about her future.

“I’m proud of her,” said Issac. “She’s excelling very well academically.”

Lisa chose UIS, because it is the smallest of the three University of Illinois campuses and she felt she could get more one-on-one attention.

All new first-year students are required to participate in an orientation session. Students meet with their advisers, take placement exams and make sure their immunization records are in order. They also have the opportunity to spend the night in Lincoln Residence Hall, to get a feel for college life.

For a full list of upcoming Freshmen Orientations, requirements, and more visit the Student Affairs website.