Newest Lancers received at Welcome Weekend

Riverside, Calif. (Aug. 31, 2018) – The campus at California Baptist University was alive with energy and enthusiasm as new first year students arrived for Welcome Weekend activities on Aug. 30. More than 2,200 freshmen and transfer students are expected for the fall semester at CBU, which begins Sept. 4.

Welcome Weekend is a CBU tradition geared toward helping new students get connected to resources and helping students feel a part of the CBU family, said Jay Stovall, director of new student programs and orientation. This year, CBU hosted a move-in day for freshmen on Aug 30. with transfer students arriving the following day.

First up on the Welcome Weekend schedule was move-in. As new students arrived on campus with their luggage, CBU student volunteers lined up to help move in their peers. They unloaded vehicles, filled rolling bins with living necessities and pushed them to the student’s rooms.

Sarah Hom, a community life intern at CBU, was helping students move in at the Cottages. She volunteered as a way to give back for the help she received as a freshman.  

“I was grateful for everyone that helped me out then and that’s why I want to be on the other side of this—to help others transition into life at CBU,” said Hom, a psychology student.

Students also had the opportunity to meet with different student service departments at the Events Center and receive free CBU gear.

Natalie Wagner, a biomedical engineer freshman, met up with several of her friends who are also attending CBU this fall. They chatted about dining options for lunch on campus.

“I choose CBU for its focus on spiritual development. I’m here to grow in my faith,” Wagner said.

Abby Strom, a child development freshman, said she fell in love with the CBU campus on prior visits, which contributed to her decision to become a Lancer.  For her, Welcome Weekend is the start of a new journey.

“I am excited to start a new chapter in life. I got to meet my new roommate and I am just looking forward to starting the semester,” said Strom, a Temecula, California, resident.

In the afternoon, students met their FOCUS groups, which help acclimate students to campus life. They also participated in the traditional Kugel walk, where new students touch the globe, symbolizing their commitment to live a “life of purpose” as they begin their college experience at CBU. At the President’s Welcome, CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis encouraged students to become a part of Lancer Nation by getting involved in campus activities.

Other Welcome Weekend opportunities for students included time to meet with deans and faculty members and a special discount-shopping opportunity at Bed Bath & Beyond. Additionally, there is a Meet the Inland Empire event that informs students of the nearby restaurants, shops and churches.