More than 1,300 freshmen begin arriving for orientation sessions

Troy University’s freshman orientation program kicked off this week as students from across the country flocked to campus.

Students from Wyoming all the way to Indiana and Virginia are attending IMPACT, according to Emily Carter, student director. More than 1,300 incoming freshmen and around 300 transfer students already have registered for the fall semester. Carter said the registration number will likely go up later in the summer, and the goal is around 2,000 students.

“The program gives them a taste of independence – that’s what college is all about,” Carter said. “They are with their peers and learning things they need to know for the college experience.”

Caidren Harrell of Opp said she’s excited but nervous about her freshman year and IMPACT is a good program that has helped her get ahead.

“I’ve learned a bunch about classes, groups and organizations while getting to meet new people,” Harrell said. “It’s a good program.”

Eight IMPACT sessions run throughout June and July for incoming freshmen, as well as two sessions for transfer students.

Huntsville native Alize’ Smith-Rivera said meeting new people is one of the things that will be most exciting about starting college, and the orientation program is helping her get a jumpstart making friends.

“I’m ready to meet new people,” Smith-Rivera said. “I’m most excited about football and basketball, I’m really into those sports. I want to try out for cheerleading, maybe join a sorority, and party a little bit.”

Though she is nervous and tears will be shed over leaving her family, Smith-Rivera said making the move to Troy is worth the risk.

“I think I am ready,” my family has prepared me,” Smith-Rivera said. “I’m ready to be a Trojan.”