by Rachel Stohr
Daily Lobo
Incoming freshman Michael Chavez had a smile on his face as he left the first session of Lobo Orientation.
Chavez was one of more than 200 freshmen and transfer students to complete the first of 12 mandatory orientation sessions this summer at UNM.
The two-day program provides incoming students with information about educational opportunities on campus and University services and policies. Students also receive academic advisement and register for their first semester of classes.
Chavez, a Sandia High School graduate, said he enjoyed his time at UNM during orientation.
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"Everyone here is really friendly, and I'm excited to become a part of it all," he said.
Before orientation began, he worried about creating his own schedule, something that was done for him in high school.
"I was a little nervous," Chavez said. "I didn't know what to expect, but my counselor helped me with my schedule and answered all my questions."
Orientation takes new students through the registration process, gives a campus tour, and has workshops focusing on topics such as living in the dorms, diversity and UNM traditions.
"We're hoping to instill school pride and tradition," said Laura Valdez, manager of New Student Orientation. "Freshmen also learn the UNM fight song."
Chavez's favorite orientation activities were the social ones where students met new friends and interacted with one another.
"Along with getting your school ID and the different workshops, it's fun to meet new people and hang out in your rooms," Chavez said.
Another helpful part of the program was the campus tour, Chavez said.
"It's a big place," he said. "I'm glad we toured the school."
Valdez, who has been involved in the program for five summers, said attendance is important for student success. She said research suggests those who attend orientation are more likely to achieve success and graduate.
Chavez is undecided on a major, but is leaning toward psychology. He said he hopes to be even more successful than the 3.5 GPA he maintained throughout high school.
Chavez credits the UNM staff for making his experience at Lobo Orientation very positive.
Valdez agreed orientation went well, adding there were very few bumps in the road.
She said the goal of orientation is to make students comfortable in their new environment.
With the information given during workshops on dorm living, Chavez said he wants to make the UNM campus his home someday.
"It would be great to live closer and not have to worry about being late to class," he said.
An avid football player, Chavez also looks forward to attending Lobo sporting events.
"It'll be fun to go to all the games at University Stadium and The Pit," he said. "I've always been a Lobo fan - now I'll be a Lobo too."
For more comments on orientation, see page 4.
