New academic year gets underway
Music, plenty of smiles and handshakes, and perfect weather combined to create something of a carnival atmosphere for the 2020 Freshers’ Welcome Day on Saturday 22 February.
The House Coordinators, Student Club Executive and other student staff had spent the previous two weeks in planning and preparation to welcome their new fellow Aquinians.
Senior House Coordinator, Morgan Fisher, explained that the top priority for the HCs was to help the new students feel at home and comfortable at Aquinas.
‘Aquinas is like a family for us,’ said Morgan, ‘and so we see the Freshers as our brothers and sisters. We have been really looking forward to getting to know them and helping them get ready for the year ahead.’
In her welcome talk to the Freshers on their first night, Student President Catherine Walsh, echoed these sentiments and encouraged the new students to get involved in aspects of life at Aquinas.
‘They seem like a great group,’ said Catherine. ‘I think they’ll bring a lot to our great community here.’
Sunday was officially Commencement Day, as the Freshers were joined by the returning students. Their new academic year began with a Welcome Service led by the Rector, followed by an outstanding luncheon prepared by the catering staff for the students and their families.
O-Week is now well underway with its mix of academic orientation, meetings, briefings, sports try-outs, and social activities, culminating in the Collegiate Dinner and Awards on Saturday evening.