CSM campus thriving as students return for Welcome Days
OMAHA, NEB. – College of Saint Mary welcomed new and returning students to campus last week for several days of fun activities, ice-breakers, and info sessions designed to help them succeed academically and socially throughout their college experience.
“We want to make sure everyone finds a home here at CSM,” said Kristofer Czerwiec, Director of Student Leadership and Organizations. “Students travel from all over to learn and live in this community, so we feel it’s our job to make sure they feel comfortable and appreciated. Welcome Days is our way of achieving that goal.”
Welcome Days featured a mix of movies, games, an improv group, kite flying, casino night, a service trip, and even a “glow-in-the-dark” night. These events, along with plenty of food and snacks, helped students relax and make new friends.
“If I had to pick a favorite activity I’d say the Start of the Year Festival,” added Czerwiec. “The festival really brought us together. As a college we emphasize the ‘community’ aspect in everything we do. So it’s nice to see an event like this which puts that mission into action.”
CSM believes an engaging welcome week is crucial to the development of students. Especially this year, as CSM will welcome one of the largest on-campus resident population the school has ever seen.
Glow in the Dark Night and the improv show were two new events added to the docket this year. The College also hosted its first-ever pep rally to kick off the new school year and celebrate Flames spirit.
“The Glow in the Dark Night and pep rally were such big hits this year and we have plans to make them a Welcome Days tradition going forward,” says Katie Golka, Welcome Days Student Coordinator. “You could really feel the energy on campus this week. It’s an exciting thing to be a part of.”
“Mission Improvable” used sketch-comedy as an educational tool to inform students about alcohol awareness on college campuses.
CSM also held sessions on safety and security, avoiding homesickness, faculty advising, and staying healthy while living in a college environment.
Alexis Sherman, Director of Multicultural Initiatives, led the “Inclusive Campus and You” workshop which educated students on the importance of diversity and inclusivity on campus.
Although classes didn’t start until August 23rd, some student groups began moving onto campus weeks earlier. Resident Assistants and orientation staff were the first to arrive in early August, followed by soccer and volleyball athletes, Mothers Living & Learning participants, and Physician Assistant Studies students.
Students participating in CSMAdvantage, the University’s program to empower first-year students to succeed in CSM’s rigorous academic programs, also arrived early. This year-long program focuses on the development of mind, body and spirit. Students learn how to identify their learning styles and maximize study skills, while exploring the importance of goal setting and networking.
