Washington University in St. Louis welcomed one of its largest and most diverse classes in its history Aug. 20. Some 1,730 first-year students from all 50 states and 23 countries moved into their residential colleges with the help of approximately 350 faculty, staff and student volunteers.
“I chose WashU because I thought it would be a welcoming place, and that’s definitely been my experience so far,” said Mikaela Adwar, a freshman from New York City as she settled into Dardick Hall. “I think I’ll be able to step out of my comfort zone here and still feel supported.”
Meet some of the freshmen of Dardick 2
This year’s class was selected from 29,000 applicants and it includes the university’s highest percentage of underrepresented minority students — 18 percent, which is up from 11 percent last year.
“We’re proud of the diversity you represent in every dimension,” Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton told the first-year students at the evening Convocation ceremony held in the Athletic Complex.
Lori White, PhD, vice chancellor for students, said she was excited to meet the talented and diverse Class of 2019. At the morning pep rally that energizes First Year Center orientation members, White helped Wrighton “peel the banana” — a traditional cheer for move-in day volunteers.
“I was a cheerleader, so this is my sweet spot,” said White, who joined the university July 1. “ I love the spirit of all of these student leaders.”
Preston Sembler, a junior in Arts & Sciences and programming chair for the First Year Center executive board, said the day reminded him of his move-in day two years ago — only some 20 degrees cooler.
“I came here a little hesitant, and, right away, I felt like I had found my new home,” Sembler said. “It’s so exhilarating to be on the other side of that now.”