Freshman class, transfers get first look at new orientation program “Braves Camp”

From Ottawa University Website 

Freshman orientation got a face-lift for the new school year, being reintroduced as Braves Camp.

The four days of events were redesigned to be faster paced and more interactive Student Activities Coordinator Sydnee Krueger explained, “I felt that the Orientation needed a face lift.  We had done the same thing for several years, and I wanted to get the new students more involved.  I tried to make some of the events we had done in the past more upbeat, and interactive.”  

Krueger then explained the difference from last year to now, “for instance we would have students sit in the Chapel for an entire day and listen to lecture after lecture, without getting up and stretching, or socializing with one another.  This year, I created speed dating, which allowed students to interact with other groups as they move from one station to another and learn about our campus.”

So, why was the name changed to Braves Camp? Krueger said she was looking for a name that held a better rind to it than just simply “New Student Orientation”.  She compared it to summer camp: orientation should be fun and a chance to make friends and socialize with new peers, as well as be informational and transitional.

Changes besides the name of orientation included a new logo, new lecture formats including “speed dating” and a round robin that consisted of various culture talks, an official Opening Ceremony, a class photo, and a meet and greet with faculty.

“Opening Ceremony was my favorite addition. It was a great way to get the entire OU community together to welcome the students, and give them a great taste of what the next four years will be,” Krueger said. “I think that there were a couple of small details that need to be ironed out (for next year), but it was something that we expected to see as it is a new program.”

Overall, the revamp of orientation was intended to change the atmosphere as the new students set foot on campus, so they felt welcomed and excited to be an Ottawa Brave.