Class of 2015 Adjusts to Life in College

Carson-Newman has kicked off another school year with the time-honored traditions of the school: Eagle Strut, Howdy Hoot, the Boot Scoot, Field Fest, and many others.  Among the traditions enters the new class of 2015.  The total number of first-year students is 446, and the new transfer students number at 105.  In 2010, there were 429 freshmen, so C-N has increased the class size by 17 students, according to Sheryl Gray of the Registrar's Office.

This year's orientation was similar to the orientation of last year.  Tommy Clapp, Director of First Year Services, states that all freshmen should know the "F-word" of Carson-Newman: Family.  With 32 orientation leaders guiding approximately 15 to 18 new students in each group, family is exactly what happened.  Before starting classes, freshmen could choose to go to Dollywood, hike in the Smoky Mountains, bike at Cades Cove, explore Knoxville, or even go rafting down the Ocoee River.  They also participated in the BOLD course: Basics Of Leadership Development. 

Also similar to last year is that freshman halls compete in the Community Race.  Each hall earns points for participating in hall activities, keeping the dorm in good condition, etc.  After fall break, the winning hall will receive a prize.

The Big Bash in Butler-Blanc is also an event for C-N students to have fun on campus.  It was at the end of September, and was held to give students a chance to "de-stress," according to Clapp.  Also located in Butler-Blanc is a brand-new climbing wall that will eventually be available for student use.

The Resident Assistants (RA) are also excited about the new school year.  "I have been very blessed with my hall," said Katelynn Davenport, a first-time RA for Burnett. "We may be the Burnett crazies on 2nd South but we all have each other's back all the time. My hall is AWESOME!"

Kevin Quinby, a junior Pre-Med student and returning RA for Heritage, highly enjoys his new freshman hall.  "I had an upperclassman hall last year," he said. "Upperclassmen can be jaded about the C-N experience, but this year I have a freshman hall.  Freshmen are excited about all the new experiences of college.  I have a more positive outlook on college and life because their enthusiasm rubs off on me."