THE WELCOME WAGON

DJ's blasted music outside the University Center, which set a mood of festivity at this year's Admissions Picnic. The weather was gorgeous - the sun shone brightly in a clear blue sky, and it was warm enough for everyone to leave their jackets at home. Upon arrival, guests checked in at a table in front of the University Center and received a fun care package, free gifts - a Kean backpack, mini radio/clock/compass, and a bracelet for admittance into the lunch tent. Senior Theatre major, Sam Jackson, who was welcoming freshmen at the sign-in table, said, "It helps incoming freshmen to socialize with one another by walking around, talking with others, and having fun!"

Greeks participated in games with the prospective students, including the "Three-Legged Race," "Ring Toss," "Red Rover," and "Hula Hoop." The Greeks helped to familiarize freshmen with the campus, and answered questions. Cathy Gorbatuk, sophomore Early Childhood Education major and member of Lambda Chi Rho, explained, "The goal of the Admissions Picnic is to show the freshmen that Kean is a fun and active campus to be part of."

Prospective students agreed about the benefits of the picnic. "I think it's a good idea," said Ashley Jones, an incoming Elementary Education major. She continued, "It's good to meet other people and get a feel for the school." Prospective Criminal Justice major Allen Yanow said, "It gave me a better understanding of the students, campus life, and it gave me a chance to get acquainted with the campus."

The picnic lunch took place in the large white tent set up at the Reflections Garden patio in front of Downs Hall, featuring tasty all-American barbecue favorites: hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, brownies, watermelon, lemonade, and other assorted beverages. Incoming freshmen and their families mingled with each other as well as with members of the Kean community, chatting and sharing their stories.

"I chose Kean because it has so many opportunities for the different majors. Kean offers a lot," said prospective student Krishna Patel. Petra Knox, Associate Director for Admissions, was pleased with the turnout. "A total of about 140 freshmen attended the Admissions Picnic," she revealed, "but since many brought their family members, we had a total of about 300-400 people here for the picnic today." We'll look forward to having all these great new students join the Kean family in the fall!