Orientation at Randolph-Macon College is an opportunity for new students and parents to familiarize themselves with the campus and all that the college offers.
Orientation days were held June 28 and July 11, 2011. A total of 412 students participated in the day-long programs, which included
guided tours of the campus, special sessions on
academics and campus life, and lunch in Estes Dining Hall.
Click on New Student Orientation for a slideshow of photos.
Students and parents started the day at the Frank E. Brown Plaza, where they were greeted by R-MC President Robert R. Lindgren.
“We are thrilled to have you join the Randolph-Macon College family, and we expect great things of you,” said Lindgren. “With an exceptional faculty, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff and an outstanding liberal arts program, Randolph-Macon is now your home. We are committed to giving you the tools and personal support you need to succeed, to help you realize your potential, and then to help you graduate with a competitive advantage when pursuing careers or graduate school. We’re glad you are here.”
Faculty and staff were on hand to assist students in registering for classes. “Like anything new, college can be a little daunting at first, “says Assistant Dean of Students Bill Blackmore. “A friendly face can make a world of difference, and orientation is a chance for us to show off our academic programs and our beautiful campus.”
Students registered for classes, got to know one another and toured the campus with an orientation leader. They also received R-MC identification cards and campus mailing addresses. While the future Yellow Jackets familiarized themselves with the college and campus life, their parents participated in a separate orientation. They received information on
financial aid,
internships,
study abroad,
disability services and more, and had the opportunity to ask questions of faculty and staff.
Students and parents also learned about the college’s
Four-Year Degree Guarantee, which pledges in writing that freshmen entering in fall 2011 who meet the Four-Year Degree Guarantee requirements will graduate within four calendar years. If not, Randolph-Macon will waive tuition costs for R-MC courses needed to complete the degree. Lindgren and Provost William Franz met with individual families in the Brock Center to discuss and sign the Four-Year Guarantee partnership agreement.
The program concluded in Blackwell Auditorium, the R-MC Center for the Performing Arts. Dean Grant Azdell’s “What’s Next?” presentation addressed practical concerns that students and parents typically have about college life, such as
Estes Dining Hall’s hours of operation and where to find a nearby bank.