Community at the heart of 51Сʪ Welcome Week
Jessica Thar (center) with new 51Сʪ students Danielle Croteau (left) and Emily Sark. (Photos by Nathaniel Rabon, 51Сʪ Student Photographer)
By Naomi Balk
51Сʪ Student Writer
The class of 2023 and incoming transfer students experienced a weekend designed to share to the heartbeat of Columbia International University during 51Сʪ’s 2019 Welcome Week.
They heard it in a greeting from 51Сʪ President, , and the deans. They also saw it lived out in their interaction with student leaders and peers who are passionate about 51Сʪ.
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how welcoming people at 51Сʪ are,” said freshman Bridgette Hollowell.
Over 200 new students listened to informative sessions, became acquainted with 51Сʪ’s close-knit residence life, were introduced to their small group of about 10-12 people, and got in on the excitement of .
Even though some rainy weather moved in over the weekend and two events moved indoors, the showers did not put a damper on the excitement.
The weekend was also sprinkled with fun events like a high-energy , a formal event called the President’s Reception, a movie night showing the new Aladdin, and pickup sports in the on Saturday night. On Sunday afternoon, The Quad in the center of campus was transformed into a wet and wild inflatable slip and slide party with food and music and other fun activities. The weekend ended on a high note with the weekly Cola Worships session that attracts Columbia area residents.
Eliza Butler, a transfer student said 51Сʪ’s friendliness is not just talk.
“I’m looking forward to engaging in community,” said Butler, an Intercultural Studies major. “I’ve seen the juniors and seniors back up what we are hearing in sessions.”
“I’ve really enjoyed meeting people who are in my major,” added transfer Luke Holder. “It reminds me that you are not alone.”
See a Welcome Week video on 51Сʪ's page and be sure to read about 51Сʪ's increased enrollment and new facilities.
Columbia International University ranks #1among colleges and universities in South Carolina byExcitement is growing on campus with 51Сʪ’s firstprogram in development, and online with 51Сʪ’snew Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership.on enrollment at 51Сʪ and Columbia Biblical Seminary or call(800) 777-2227, ext. 5024.