This spring semester's welcome week embraced a "new year, new me" theme, offering activities like journaling and a mini de-stress session with cookies, drinks, and plushie stuffing. The welcoming atmosphere encouraged students to relax, grab a snack, and enjoy
the music. We held three welcome week events across all three campuses. The Paterson event, held on Thursday, January 30th in the Panther's Den, provided the perfect cozy setting. The Wanaque campus event took place on Monday, January 27th, and was hosted by our CSE staff with the help of SGA Senator Conor. Both PAC & WAC had the business Waffles & Dreams come in and make waffles for students. The Passaic
event which was held Tuesday, January 28th was also hosted by CSE staff, with assistance from SGA Senator Tori. They shared the following statements about each event:
"Welcome Week at Wanaque was a major W! The smell of waffles engulfed the lobby area, our Build a Panther was a smash hit and lots of journals were given to those who sought them out. Waffles and Dreams is a fantastic small business, and I am always happy to see them on our campuses, serving sweets and smiles” (Senator Conor).
“PAC's Welcome Week was so much fun! The cone-shaped waffles were a huge hit – I mean, who doesn't love a waffle, especially when you can pile it high with your favorite toppings?
And the Build-a-Panther station? Had the nursing students running to grab the last one. Everyone loved naming their own cuddly panther pal. It was so great to see everyone
relaxing and getting into the spirit of the new semester. Welcome Week definitely helped everyone de-stress and get ready to hit the books” (Senator Tori).
Welcome week is crucial, not only as a "welcome back" for returning students after winter break, but also as an opportunity for new students to explore resources and connect with peers. SSS-TRIO Academic Counselor, Ms. Jackie Younge, was present to provide information about the program's resources and benefits. The overall goal of welcome week is to foster a welcoming environment for all students, facilitate reconnection with campus life, ease the transition back into classes, and motivate students for the new
semester through activities like the ones we hosted.
In closing, with welcome week behind us, it's time to focus on the semester and use the tools and connections made during welcome week to succeed academically. Let's make the most of the opportunities available on campus to achieve our academic goals!
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