The faculty and staff of Ohio University Southern donned their academic regalia Tuesday evening and the incoming freshman class made its first step on the new journey it will embark on, college.

For the first time, Ohio University Southern hosted a convocation for its incoming freshmen to learn about what will be gained through an OUS education and the college experience in general.

“This was our very first convocation for new OUS students. We thought this was a great way to welcome all of our new students to campus,” Dr. Nicole Pennington, dean of OUS, said. “It is important for new students to feel connected to the campus. This event provided the opportunity for faculty and students to get acquainted before the fall semester starts.”

Pennington said OUS has more than 300 new freshman registered for the fall semester.

“I want the students to understand that even though they are going to an Ohio University regional campus, they are still getting an Ohio University education and experience,” Dr. Kim Keffer, director of enrollment and student services at OUS, said.

Incoming students met in the Mains Rotunda before a proceeding to the Bowman Auditorium where Pennington, Dr. Miki Crawford, associate dean, Dr. Hayley Haugen, academic division coordinator and Keffer spoke prior to an outdoor reception.

Raceland High School graduates Trevor Frisby and Lane Ball said they are looking forward to beginning college at OUS. “I just want to go to college to get an education and do something with my life,” Frisby said.

Frisby said he is going to study criminal justice and wants to be a state police officer while Ball said he is going to study electronic media. Josh Spradlin is going to study multimedia and said he is looking forward the most to the change college brings. “It’s like a whole different life,” Spraldin said. “You’re more independent and I want to start something totally new.” Spraldin graduated from Chesapeake High School earlier this year.

“We are pleased with the turnout for our first convocation,” Pennington said. “We look forward to continuing it in the future.”