With the arrival of the Class of 2004 less than two months away, the First-Year Office is already busy planning an orientation schedule packed with social and academic events to introduce Dartmouth's newest class to the College.
Although in the past orientation events have focused almost exclusively on academic integration to the College, the First-Year Office will continue last year's trend in offering more opportunities for students to adjust to the social environment, according to Dean of First Year Students Gail Zimmerman.
A country fair highlighting activities specific to New England, a Collis 'Fest' complete with a hypnotist and an a cappella showcase, as well as a Moosilauke Event are just a few of the social activities being planned, Zimmerman said.
A "Rock the Gym" day introducing students to health and recreational opportunities at Dartmouth, an afternoon roving bus that will show students unique opportunities in the Upper Valley, such as the Montshire Museum and the Organic Farm, as well as a tailgate party prior to weekend athletic events , according to Zimmerman.
The emphasis will be on providing students with opportunities of varying scope and breadth, involving both the entire class and smaller groups with more specific interests, Zimmerman said.
Last year, orientation included 54 new social events, providing a range of all-class events and small group events, and the Office hopes to continue that trend with the this year's orientation.
The '04s will also have many cluster-based events, reflecting changes in residential life from previous years.
Orientation will also include academic events such as group advising, academic open houses, individual meetings with faculty advisors and a class lecture based on Jared Diamond's "Guns, Germs, and Steele," by Thayer Professor Lewis Duncan, Zimmerman said.
The members of the class will also be the first class to register on the web for their fall term classes.
Students last year reported being exhausted during orientation, a comment not heard in previous years, Zimmerman said. Such students were taking advantage of the many social and academic programs offered, a trend Zimmerman hopes to see continue.
Trying to maintain a balance between social and academic activities, so that they have energy for both, is important according to Zimmerman, noting that students must also make time for placement exams during orientation.
