Welcome Class of 2019!

This June and July, Delaware State University is welcoming incoming freshmen to New Student Orientation sessions on campus.  The archives would like to take this opportunity to address our newest students. 


Members of the 1968 Photography Club

To the Class of 2019:

You probably have some common fears about starting a new chapter in your life, and it might be hard for you to overlook these fears to see how much you will be gaining here at DSU. Take it from the past DSU students pictured here.  They made it and so will you!



A professor congratulates an Honor Society member at a
1971 award cermony.

1. You will find friends.  DSU prides itself on the diversity of individuals who find themselves on campus.  Whether you are quiet, reserved, fun-loving, exuberant, or perhaps a tad mischievous, you will find peers who enjoy the same things you do and appreciate you for who you are. Don’t be shy! Reach out!
 

2. Your professors are friends not tormentors.  They are here to see that you succeed.  Sure, you’ll face some challenging assignments, but the professors do not take pleasure in watching you struggle. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help.



A female student stands in her decorated
dormitory room c. 1980

3. Residence Halls are home.  Right now you might be picturing monsters as roommates, plastic covered mattresses, and communal showers.  You will be surprised. Soon you’ll be finding yourself calling your residence hall “home” and those who live in your hall “family.”

4. In all of DSU history no one has died from eating campus food.  Believe me, if someone had died eating DSU food the archives would have the records to prove it. No such photographs, news clippings, documents, or reports exist.  Our food is delicious! On Tuesdays you will want to get to Conrad Hall early to beat the line for fried chicken.  Consider yourself warned.



Students enjoy a meal on campus in 1975

A student shoots pool c. 1975

5. Take “me” time.  There will always be homework, and friends who want to hang out.  Don’t forget to take time for yourself.  Your time at DSU will fly by. Take time to step back and soak it all in.

 Welcome Class of 2019! We are so excited to have you!

Before you know it, the day comes when you are too cool for school and it’s time to leave. You’ll be walking across the stage at graduation and wishing you could go back to freshman year to re-live your experiences.  So don’t be scared! You got this!

Remember, the William C. Jason Library is always ready to help you.  Information is our business.  It doesn’t matter if you need help with research projects, are looking for a quiet place, or need help getting connected to services on campus. We can direct you.

Written by Joy Scherry