Though fall semester classes don’t start until Aug. 28, junior Katie Johnson said the Elon University campus has already been buzzing with activity.

Johnson, who arrived on campus Aug. 19, is one of many early-arrival students who are able to move into their on-campus housing early due to their role in an organi- zation, athletic team or other campus com- mitment.

“Campus is definitely quieter this week, but you would be surprised how many peo- ple are here,” Johnson said. “Athletes, orientation leaders, Residence Life staff and other student leaders are all on campus, so it’s not empty by any means.”

Johnson moved into Loy Center H early to complete training to be house manager for her Greek Life organization.

“Being able to move in early provides many advantages, such as beating the crowds on move-in day and avoiding lines in the bookstore,” she said.

MarQuita Barker, associate director of Residence Life for operations and informa- tion management, said Elon allows early move-in to provide students who are part of organizations the opportunity to come back early and prepare for the semester.

[quote] Athletes, orientation leaders, Residence Life staff and other student leaders are all on campus, so it’s not empty by any means. - Junior Katie Johnson [/quote]

This year, the earliest student move-in for fall semester was Aug. 6. Barker said that typical early arrivals are orientation leaders, band members and resident assis- tants.

Early arrivals do have to cope with some challenges when it comes to dining options, as dining halls operate on different schedules or remain closed until the cam- pus fully opens.

“Students receive a detailed list of what food options are available and other expec- tations as an early arrival student,” Barker said.

Despite some on-campus services being closed, the sparse amenities haven’t both- ered Johnson.

“While the dining halls are limited, organizations are providing meals for students who were required to come early,” she said. “Overall, it has been an advantage to come early and I think Elon does an ex- cellent job of taking care of students before classes begin.”

The early arrival process does mean a little extra work for the Residence Life staff, though.

“The process takes attention to detail and cooperation from the advisers and stu- dents, but other than that, it is not too chal- lenging,” Barker said.

To students like Johnson, the extra effort is more than appreciated.

“Having this time to adjust back into Elon life is great and I think helps students become more relaxed before classes start,” she said. “They have time to settle in rather than rushing around the day before classes start to get everything ready.”