Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - More than 300 Grace College freshman and transfer students moved in Saturday during the college's Welcome Weekend.
"The weekend is a time to help new and transfer students transition into college life," said Sina Locke, Welcome Weekend coordinator.
"The first few weeks of college are essential for adjusting students to college and integrating them into the campus and community."
Evening classes begin Tuesday night and the first full day of classes is Wednesday morning. Returning students move in today.
Freshman enrollment at the college is up by 12 percent this year compared to last, according to Jim Swanson, associate vice president for student affairs.
There are 302 freshman this year compared to 236 students last year.
"Students are drawn to the conservative nature of our campus that strives to focus on our mission of character, service and competence," Swanson said.
Swanson said the college also has an Orthopedic Service Initiative that attracts students to the college.
The initiative includes orthopedic companies working with the college to place students in orthopedic careers.
Students and families who participated in Welcome Weekend had the opportunity to visit tables with information about the college and services in Gordon Recreation Center.
Representatives stood at tables providing information about banks, majors, service organizations and career services.
Alecia Sullivan, a freshman from Medina, Ohio, stood at a table with her parents learning about a freshman foundation course. The course teaches freshmen how to adjust to college life.
Sullivan, who will be a freshmen, said she is the first child in her family to attend college.
"I am a little nervous about starting college, but I am happy I chose Grace because I wanted to be in a safe environment," Sullivan said.
Students also had the opportunity to move in with the help of 150 student leaders, purchase textbooks and get a photo identification card taken for access to dining, the library and the Gordon Rec Center.
Students who purchased more than $300 worth of textbooks received a free bookbag.
The weekend also included breakout sessions and a church service was held Sunday at Rodeheaver Auditorium for students and their families.
