<p>I was just looking over the orientation schedule again, and I have to say I'm bowled over by the wonderfulness of it. D and I are both confident that by the time I leave her, she will be well on the way to settling in and feeling like part of the Earlham community. What's not to love about a school whose official program includes bowling, variety shows, ice cream socials, and late-night trips to Walmart!</p>
<p>When I first heard "5-day orientation", I gotta admit it was a head-scratcher. Now I feel sorry for some of her friends whose 4-hour orientation consists of registering for classes, getting their ID card, and taking a tour. So soul-less -- not something that Earlham could EVER be accused of!</p>
<p>My husband and I really appreciated Earlham’s attention to the parents as well as the new students. There were sessions where parents from all classes could discuss this dramatic change in family dynamics, other meetings where parents were grouped by geographic region, a reception in Doug Bennett’s home (Earlham president), meetings with their student’s advisor, and a welcoming convocation with presentations from the Richmond mayor and college officers. In addition parents could make appointments to meet key personnel in Disability Services, Health Office and other departments.</p>
<p>We, too, felt our daughter was in a good place and a warm community. We still feel that way with only one year left.</p>
<p>Having come in last year as a transfer, I have to say I really enjoyed the orientation. I was always busy and running around. They really make an effort to get you comfortable with the kids and campus. Now a year later, I have many friends that are working NSO and I was in choir with one of the Co-Conveners and am sure she will do an excellent job.</p>