Williston, N.D. - Implemented during Karissa Kjos' first year as Student Life Coordinator, the Teton Week of Welcome (WOW) will begin its second installment on Sunday, August 20 and run until Sunday, August 27.
The annual week-long celebration was created to help ease first-semester anxieties by guiding new Tetons through orientation programs with resources to help them acclimate to college life. There are also fun social events each day where students can meet fellow Tetons.
"A few highlights for this year's Week of Welcome are Fun on the Lawn with D-Jaden and Jump-N-Fun Inflatables, Right Time Right Place, Convocation, Academic Orientation Breakout Sessions, a Welcome BBQ, Mentalist Sean Bott, and Stuff-an-Emoji Slipper," stated Kjos.
New to Teton WOW is Right Place Right Time (RPRT), a group designed for those who consider themselves as non-traditional students (over the age of 25 or anyone who does not identify themselves as fresh out of high school).
"RPRT has grown from the idea that our older students who are starting college for the first time, or returning to school after a long time may benefit from networking with one other, identifying their strengths, and having access to staff and faculty that can help address their barriers or questions," Leah Hoffman, WSC's Mental Health Counselor, explained.
In addition to RPRT, WSC will offer four academic breakout sessions Monday, August 21 to help students better understand areas that get the most questions; IT/blackboard (online platform), financial aid, understanding academics, and organizational skills.
"Students are transitioning to a new experience and we want to give them a head start by addressing many of the frequently asked questions or predictable challenges they may face," Kate Hoffman, WSC's Accessibility and Retention Specialist, explained. "We want to ensure our students are prepared and feel confident in their abilities."
Though this year's events are not open to the public, WSC welcomes the community to save the date for its Teton Fall Fest: Friends, Family, and Alumni Week, October 8-15.
For any information regarding WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu,
call 1.888.863.9455, or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.