Hundreds of volunteers braved the humidity and heat Sunday as they moved in freshmen during the annual Move-In Day. UCA faculty, staff, students and local organizations helped unload vehicles and hauled televisions, clothes, and mini-fridges to residence halls.
Move-In Day is the kick off for Welcome Week. Numerous activities were scheduled throughout the day to provide parents and students additional information about the university.
UCA President Allen C. Meadors greeted the students and their families and helped with the move in.
“This is always an exciting time of year,” Meadors said. “We have over 2,000 freshmen coming in. What is really wonderful is that we have alums, students, faculty, staff and community people all helping these young men and women and their families move in. It is amazing.”
Allie Matthews of Greenbrier and her mother, Kendra Matthew, talked about the excitement they both felt as they unpacked items in Allie’s room in the STEM Residential College.
“I couldn’t go to bed last night,” said Allie, who plans to study nursing. “I was like a kid before Christmas. I was so excited. I was up and ready by 8 o’clock.”
Kendra Matthews, who received her master’s degree in school counseling from UCA, could not help but shed a few tears Sunday morning.
“I know she is going to have a great time at UCA and a great education,” Kendra Matthews said. “I am excited for her. My advice to her is to have fun, enjoy your life, call me if you need me and study hard.”
Tyeashia Allen, of Monticello, and her family sorted through her belongings in her room. Tyeashia, who plans to study physical therapy, had mixed emotions before arriving at UCA.
“I was relieved once I met people and I was comforted,” she said. “They made me feel right at home.”
Annette Nalls, Tyneashia’s mother, expressed her pride.
“I am excited that she is here,” she said. “I know what the outcome will be because we have gone through this process before. I have heard a lot of good things about the university and I am just excited that she chose UCA.”
