For freshman Audrey Bonk, Elon University’s move-in day on Aug. 20, 2021 was a day of excitement and new beginnings.
“I’m excited to meet new people and see what Elon has to offer,” Bonk said.
Like many freshmen, Bonk met her roommate, Cassie Murphy, via social media. Murphy said it was challenging to get all her belongings to campus.
“I flew with all my stuff. It was hard to pack everything,” Murphy said.
The East neighborhood, where Bonk and Murphy moved into, was filled with music compliments of Elon’s student radio, WSOE. Senior Tripp Hill, a DJ for the station, said he was there to set the mood.
“It's for all of them. It's just to set the mood,” Hill said. “We set up, we play music for several hours, and just watch this whole thing take place.”
Orientation leader and sophomore Sydney Barlow said she was inspired to help transition students to college life after having her first year on campus while COVID guidelines were in place.
“I was really intrigued by the opportunity to help transition the first years, and being a sophomore, I really didn't get that authentic experience,” Barlow said. “I thought being able to be on this end and talk with all these new coming freshmen was a great way to be a leader.”
Barlow also said she wanted to be there as a guiding voice for freshmen.
“It's really hard to find those few things that you're excited about and stick with it and dive as far as deep as you can,” Barlow said. “And try not to go do everything.”
Hill also had some advice for incoming freshmen after reflecting on his own experiences.
“Make friends, get yourself out there, just do as much as you can to get the whole experience,” said Hill.