More than 1,000 first-year students made SUNY New Paltz their home away from home during First Year Move-In Day on Aug. 25.
The annual tradition sees hundreds of student, faculty and staff volunteers (including President Darrell Wheeler) meet with new students and families to help them unload their cars and settle into their residence halls.
A few new students shared their thoughts on how they feel about beginning their college careers at New Paltz, touting the friendly, welcoming atmosphere as the main reason for choosing the College.
“I love the vibes and the energy of the people, and the campus is absolutely gorgeous.” said Henry Webber ’26 (English; Mathematics) from Long Island, New York.
“I’m looking forward to making connections with different people and trying to find myself,” said Katrina Bell ’26 (Political Science) of Rochester, New York.
“I’m pretty excited to be on my own for the first time. I found the town to be very welcoming,” said Alec Alguinada ’26 (Early Childhood Education) from Stony Brook, New York.
“I had a great time at orientation. Everyone here is nice and welcoming. It’s going to be awesome to spend the next four years here!” said Maya Osborn ’26 (Undecided) from Cold Spring, New York.
Also on hand were hundreds of student athletes residence life staff and volunteers, helping carry luggage and even offering a few words of advice for the incoming class.
“I’m a senior, and I’m really sad that I’m gonna be leaving in a year. But at the same time, I’m so grateful for my experience here at New Paltz,” said Miki DeFrietus ’23, Resident Assistant of Ridgeview Hall, whose pronouns are they/she/he. “My advice for the freshmen is to be open to anything you think might be for you. You’re never going to know unless you try it.”
A few busy parents took a moment to share their thoughts on the happy experience of sending their Hawks off into the next phase of their lives.
“I’m excited for her!” said Sheri Brasseale of Sullivan County, New York, mother of Sati Brasseale ’26 (Digital Media Production). “I want her to take advantage of everything possible.”
“I like the atmosphere here,” said Brian Cleary of Long Island, New York, who was sending off his daughter Kate Cleary ’26 (Undeclared). “I spoke to a lot of alumni before we decided to come here and they loved the College.”
“I know New Paltz will help her come into her own,” added Kate’s mother, Kathleen Cleary.
Want more Move-in Day coverage? You can follow us @sunynewpaltz for Stories, photos and Reels from the day, and use this link for a complete photo gallery from Move-in Day 2022.
