Whether competing in Beach Olympics at Warren Dunes, scoring at CM Radio’s Extreme Bowling Party, or lending a hand with one of several community service projects, the group of new students who participated in the 2006 All Fired Up! Orientation Week were never at a loss for fun things to do.

Running from Aug. 20–27, this annual prep week is the perfect opportunity for new freshmen and transfer students to get a taste of life at Andrews University and southwestern Michigan, while building friendships that often last a lifetime. The week kicked off with First Stop, where students got the lowdown on college-life essentials like activating their ID cards, parking, and financial aid. The week continued with three more days of “business,” such as first year tests, breakfast with advisors, student success seminars, and introductions to the library.

On Wednesday night, All Fired Up’s family groups met for the first time and students were introduced to their veteran-student “parents.” On Friday evening, new students had dinner at the homes of various Andrews University staff members who will serve as “coaches” or mentors for the year ahead.

“Orientation programming offers students important ‘just in time’ college success information, as well as giving them an opportunity to form a social support network,” stated Steve Yeagley, assistant to the vice president for student services and orientation organizer. “Many students tell us that friends made in their orientation ‘family group’ remain friends throughout their college experience.”

The week continued with fun events such as Fusion Vespers under the All Fired Up! tent, a pizza feed, and a concert at the Howard Performing Arts Center. By the second Sunday, students definitely felt warmly welcomed into their new “home away from home.”

Beverly Stout, University Relations media relations coordinator