More than 1,000 first-year students and their families arrived on campus on Thursday, Aug. 24, to settle into their on-campus homes-away-from-home on Move-In Day 2023.
The annual tradition sees hundreds of student, faculty and staff volunteers, including a huge cadre of Athletics team members, welcoming new students and families, helping them unload and unpack on the eve of the academic year.
“I’ve never lived anywhere else besides the house I grew up in, and I’m looking forward to being here for the next four years. Everyone here is so welcoming and nice,” said Sophia Rullo ‘27 (Undecided) of East Brunswick, New Jersey.
New students are getting ready for the year ahead during Welcome Week, a seven-day series of fun programs, information sessions and meet-ups with clubs and organizations.
“I’m looking forward to making memories here. The vibe of the village and campus is very cool,” said Katie Donaghue ‘27 (Undecided) of East Norwich, New York
“I felt like I fit in when I first came here, and I’m looking forward to being in a new environment,” said Paige Van Etten ‘27 (Undecided) of Ellenville, New York
There were even some activities for families, like a “Sip and Cry” event that invited parents and other relatives to enjoy a beverage and work through their feelings about their Hawks leaving the nest.
There was more pride and joy than sadness from the parents we talked to.
“I’m so proud of him. I think this is going to be good for him. I would tell him to make sure he enjoys himself, but puts school first,” said Clorinda DeGiorgio, grandmother of Anthony Tardibuono ‘27 (Astronomy) of Brewster, New York
“I couldn’t be prouder of my daughter. I know from being a student here that New Paltz is a great school that produces very successful students, and I can’t wait to see her thrive here,” said Thang Nguyen ‘93 (Mathematics) of Stormville, New York, father of Danielle Nguyen ‘27 (Biology)
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 2023.
