UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — After attending New Student Orientation, Lauren Ragland is excited to start her collegiate career at Penn State’s University Park campus this fall. The advising appointment, overnight acclimation to residence halls and the chance to meet other students were highlights of her two-day orientation experience.
“I knew that there were a ton of majors, but I didn’t realize the diversity within the campus,” said Ragland, of McDonald, Pa. “I didn’t expect them to be as open and caring because everyone just kept telling me, ‘You’re going to a school where you’re just a number, not a name,’ but I felt a very personal connection between the people I’ve been speaking with.”
Her mother, Dru Ragland, shared the same sentiment. She was initially concerned about the size of the campus, but her mind was eased after coming to orientation. “These last two days have really put my concerns to rest because it’s very welcoming here,” she said. “Everybody has been so friendly and so helpful. I like the way that they keep the parents connected. They don’t take responsibility away from the students, but we’re support in the background.”