It’s becoming that time of year again. At colleges everywhere, move-in week is fast approaching, and it’s a time filled with both excitement and anxiety for students and parents alike. Students are thinking about classes, making new friends and being on their own for the very first time, while parents want to be assured they’re leaving their children in good hands.
Is your campus ready to receive new students and make the best possible impression? Here are some tips for making sure move-in week at your college or university is a positive, welcoming experience for everyone:
Look your best. Students want to feel comfortable and at ease in their new surroundings, while parents want to know their money is going to a top-quality learning institution. Looks count—so be sure your campus appears well-maintained, from the lawns to the common areas and buildings. Because they’ll be students’ homes away from home, dormitories in particular need to be move-in ready, clean and in good repair.
Create a sense of security. Parents are especially concerned about safety, so be sure your campus is well-lit at night and that security personnel have a visible presence. You might even want to consider handouts for new students that offer safety tips for being both on and off campus. Or, post these tips in common areas around your school.
Provide direction. Learning your way around a new campus can be overwhelming. Signage directing students to places like cafeterias, libraries and community centers can be immensely helpful, as are large-sized “you are here” maps and directories.
Practice a human touch. Move-in week should be an “all hands on deck” event with resident assistants, guidance counselors and other staff readily available to help new students and their parents feel comfortable while also answering questions and alleviating concerns. Some schools even have volunteer student ambassadors who befriend new students, helping them get acclimated to campus life.
Make it fun. Everything’s new and everyone’s a little nervous, right? A social event can break the ice and reduce jitters by helping new students meet others. To cap off move-in week, plan a barbecue, ice cream social, scavenger hunt, pajama party or other affair designed to bring students out of their rooms.
A great move-in experience sets the tone for the entire school year and is vital to shaping both student and parent perspectives about the wisdom of the choice they made. As they arrive with boxes in tow, students and their families need to feel that your school is the place to be! If you need help getting your campus in pristine condition, talk to us today. We have a range of services that fit within most budgets. National can make your campus look good not only for move-in week, but every day of the year.