Moving into a dorm for the first time is a cherished memory for many Bobcats. For some, the realization their entire family cannot fit into a dorm was overwhelming, and for others, trying to climb four flights of stairs with a multitude of boxes was harder than they thought.
Luckily at Ohio University, the move-in process is made easier with the help of the Bobcat Move-In Crew.
The Bobcat Move-In Crew is a group of returning students who volunteer to help freshmen move into their dorms Aug. 22 and 23. According to OU, the crew “embodies” the university's goal of “fostering a welcoming community for all” by aiding freshmen amid the stress of moving into their new homes.
Volunteers not only help freshmen carry their boxes, but joining the crew has several benefits for students. Eddy Mays, a sophomore studying psychology, is a returning member of the move-in crew and said he is grateful for the program.
“I really do enjoy that they (OU) are providing an opportunity for students to get involved on campus prior to being enrolled in classes,” said Mays. “I think it is a good way to start making friends (and) to see what the Bobcat community is like.”
In addition to making new connections, student volunteers get their $125 early arrival fee waived and move in five days before freshmen arrive. Callie Kitchen, a sophomore studying media arts production, said moving in early has its perks.
“I’m excited honestly to have the peace and quiet,” said Kitchen. “I moved in early last year too because I didn’t want that overwhelming, overstimulating atmosphere of everyone moving in all at once.”
Kitchen said in addition to a stress free environment, arriving early helps her navigate campus and find class buildings to prepare for the school year.
The move-in crew also attends a training session Aug. 20 where they discuss how shifts work and student expectations. Mays said the training session is vital to a smooth move-in process and he enjoys socializing with the other volunteers and new students.
“My favorite part is getting to meet all the new people and getting to hear about their stories and what brought them to OU,” said Mays. “It is really inspiring to hear how all these different people decided to come to the same place.”
To some Bobcat’s surprise, lifting boxes is not the only aspect of move-in crew. Claire Richards, a senior studying biological sciences, said she remembers her freshmen move-in day and is ready to show support toward new students and families who need a break during the chaos.
“I know it is very high stress and just to be able to take that load off of some people, just saving them a few trips and giving them an extra 30 minutes to get their space set up, I think that that is really valuable,” said Richards.
There are many different reasons why people may join Bobcat Move-In Crew. Richards said her favorite time of the year is Welcome Week, and she is looking forward to being productive with the crew, while Mays said he is excited to greet the incoming freshmen and make them feel at home.
“I had someone design these funky, cool illustrated welcome cards,” Mays said. “I’m hoping to write a personalized message on the back of each of them … just so (freshmen) can feel a little bit more included and not feel as nervous.”
Students who join Bobcat Move-In Crew will also earn volunteer hours, a free T-shirt and refreshments during their shifts. Go to Bobcat Move-In Crew Ohio University to learn more.
