August 21, 2024
Majoring in Accounting at Shawnee State University, junior Zachary Elliott is excited to welcome new faces to campus during Weekend of Welcome. As a first-time Welcome Ambassador, Elliott recalls his own transition into college life and how he hopes to help other new students with theirs.
“My goal is to try and make new students feel as welcome as possible,” he said. “I became a Welcome Ambassador because I remember how awkward the transition into college could be.”
A Stout, Ohio native, Elliott, is hoping to create a warm experience for those becoming new students at SSU.
“To me, Weekend of Welcome is a showcase of the Shawnee community and culture,” he said. “It is incredibly important because it allows us to help integrate new students into our Shawnee community and help them transition into the college lifestyle a bit more smoothly.”
Held every fall, Weekend of Welcome – also referred to as WOW – is a multi-day event that allows new students to become familiar with campus and welcome back returning students for another academic year. Events are designed to introduce student services, showcase campus, and allow students to connect with one another before starting classes.
“Weekend of Welcome allows you to make connections and build a support system,” said Elliott.
Welcome Ambassadors are made up of returning students hoping to share their campus experiences with new students and help them transition into their college career. Elliott is planning to share his advice with students to get involved on campus and take advantage of the services available to them on campus.
“I know it seems a bit daunting to try and step out of one’s comfort zone when you’re in a new place, with a bunch of new people, but in the long run it can help you,” he said. “The stronger the support system you have, the better off you are in the long run.”
Shawnee State University’s Weekend of Welcome will be held Aug. 22-25, 2024 on campus prior to the first day of Autumn 2024 semester on Monday, Aug. 26. To learn more, visit shawnee.edu/wow.