Sources: Pat Bosco, 785-532-6237, bosco@k-state.edu;
and Emily Lehning, 785-532-6237, lehning@k-state.edu
Website: http://consider.k-state.edu

Friday, July 9, 2010

ORIENTATION SESSIONS SET RECORD AT K-STATE

MANHATTAN -- The number of new students and their parents participating in Kansas State University's recently completed orientation and enrollment sessions for the fall 2010 semester set a record, according to figures from the university's new student services office.

The record attendance of 7,367 new students and parents attending one of the 12 sessions offered this summer was up more than 200 people from last year, and up more than 130 from the previous high of 7,239 in 2008. This year's total included 3,494 student and 3,873 parents.

"This is the most new students and parents to attend our summer orientation programs ever," said Pat Bosco, vice president for student life and dean of students. "This high participation shows how K-State is serving students and families more today than ever. It also shows why K-State is again the No. 1 choice among high school seniors in Kansas."

Bosco credits the work of the students, faculty and staff across campus for the success of this year's sessions.

"They all work hard to ensure that students and parents get the information they need at each session, including their options for financial assistance, how to use our variety of academic assistance programs, what type of career planning services K-State offers, campus housing options and more," Bosco said. "Orientation is a one-stop shop for what you need to know before starting classes at K-State."

"I was trying to decide between multiple schools up until the last minute, and when I went to the orientation program, it confirmed my decision to attend K-State," said incoming K-State freshman Samantha Kellerman, Leawood. "The atmosphere was comfortable and welcoming, and my future classmates were all excited to be there as well."

Emily Lehning, assistant vice president of student life and director of new student services, said the increased participation also included the two Wildcat Warm-up sessions, which are offered in addition to orientation and enrollment. A three-day program, Wildcat Warm-up helps new students connect to current students, faculty and staff. Students also learn about student success strategies and K-State traditions.

"This summer we hosted 411 students at Wildcat Warm-up -- 61 students more than last year and a record attendance," Lehning said. "Since being introduced in 2004, attendance at Wildcat Warm-up has been steadily climbing."