Staci Dumoski
Starting college is a big deal. When a student steps on campus for the first time as a member of Chapman University’s newest undergraduate class, they are full of hopes and dreams and expectations for their first year of college. The future they’ve worked toward for years is finally here, and it’s time to celebrate!
But before life gets busy with classes, essays, lab work and all the rest, it’s important for new students to take a moment to get their bearings—both in a physical, “where are my classes” way as well as developing a sense of what their lives will be like now that they’re here.
That’s why Chapman welcomes new students to campus with a fun and informative Orientation program. Over the course of five days, students will have the opportunity to learn more about life at Chapman and how they can successfully reach their goals. They’ll make new friends, say farewell to their parents and families, and take part in some of our favorite Panther traditions.
Parents and families also have the opportunity to learn more about their students’ Chapman experience. The two-day programming track gives families the chance to meet faculty, administrators, staff and student leaders. They can participate in sessions such as “Making the Transition” and “Student Business Services and Financial Aid Workshop” that will help them learn how to support their student’s success here at Chapman. They’ll learn that being part of the Chapman Family is not just for students!
Opening Convocation: Welcome to Chapman
The first big event of a Chapman student’s college experience is Opening Convocation, which takes place on the evening of the first day of Orientation. This is the first time the whole class comes together on Wilson Field—just like they will in four short years when they graduate.
This is the university’s formal welcome to the new students, and includes a few unique traditions, like the exchange of class stoles that students can carry with them through their time at Chapman and wear when they graduate. Following a few inspiring speeches from the university president and others, the night ends with a fireworks spectacular that makes this a truly memorable occasion.
Parents and families are welcome to attend Opening Convocation and cheer on the new students as they officially begin their lives as college students. It’s a great end to a day that has been busy with moving into dorms, information sessions and becoming familiar with what it means to be a part of the Chapman Family. Afterwards, while students head back to their dorms for resident meetings, families are invited to attend a reception with the Dean of Students.
Candle Lighting Ceremony: Sharing the Flame of Knowledge
Chapman strives to build long-lasting connections between students and alumni, and that starts on the second night of Orientation, when new students and their families take part in the annual Candle Lighting Ceremony on the lawn of Aitken Arts Plaza. This “illuminating” event is hosted by the Alumni Association, and alumni from all generations attend to celebrate the pillars of Chapman University that symbolize our intellectual, spiritual, social and physical life.
It is especially meaningful for students with Chapman alumni in their families. As the sun sets and the Flame of Knowledge is passed from hand to hand, a gentle glow of candlelight spreads across the faces of those gathered, reflecting the joy and connection of the moment. But for alumni parents, there is an extra measure of Panther Pride because they now share this family legacy with their children.
Playfair: A Rousing Good Time
After the Candle Lighting Ceremony, students bid farewell to their families and head back to Wilson Field for an evening of fun and games, an immersive icebreaker with up to 2,000 participants. This is the first time students have to cut loose and kick up their heels—without their parents hanging around to cramp their style. It’s an important milestone, marking a new level of independence for students as they start college.
High energy and fast paced, Playfair lets students get to know a wide variety of their classmates, beyond those in their major or Living Learning Communities. Many students make their first Chapman friendships during Playfair. But even if they don’t, they have a great time getting to know one another.
Fenestra: The Window of Opportunity
In between these big events, there is plenty to keep everyone busy in the days leading up to the start of classes. In between decking out dorm rooms, students can attend a range of activities that will help them learn about all the opportunities they will have to connect, learn and grow. There are meetings with their schools and colleges, regional receptions and info sessions with different on-campus organizations. The mandatory Healthy Panther sessions will ensure that they know all the resources that will help them stay physically and mentally fit while they are here.
But the welcome party doesn’t end when Orientation does. Chapman’s Fenestra program is designed to guide students’ First Year Experience, helping them to truly connect with the university community and achieve academic success while they are here.
Chapman University is committed to supporting our students succeed, and that support starts the moment they first step on campus.
Visit the Orientation website for more information and to register for this year’s events, and learn about Fenestra and Living-Learning Communities at Chapman.
