‘Day of Welcome’ benefits students and college personnel

January 8, 2012 — Cleveland Chiropractic College (CCC) started the new year strong as more than 50 new students arrived on campus for “Day of Welcome” orientation activities Jan. 3. The group was comprised of individuals from 10 states throughout the Midwest, as well as California and South Korea. But their travel to the CCC campus was only a precursor to the more important journey down their career path.

The students were welcomed by members of the Office of Admissions who shared the itinerary for the day. Some were new arrivals on campus, while several others were taking the next step in their Cleveland education after already completing their undergraduate degree at the College. Regardless of whether they were first-time Cleveland students or campus veterans, there was still much to be learned.

Students pursuing the Doctor of Chiropractic degree took part in a luncheon in the Dining Hall where they began to familiarize themselves with life at CCC. Although academics was the focus for much of the day, the students were also made aware of the many extracurricular opportunities offered by the College.

“Students met their new classmates, visited with instructors, or mingled with club and organization officers to explore the variety of social and technique clubs that convene each trimester,” Melissa Denton, director of admissions, said. “It gave them a chance to hear about the opportunities they’re set to experience on campus.”

Following the luncheon, the students took a short tour of the library and spent some time with student mentors. That was followed by the introduction of Dr. Carl S. Cleveland III, president, who spoke at length to the group about what motivated their decision to pursue a career in chiropractic. He shared what the students could expect from their career and the value of their pursuit. Perhaps most importantly, he assured them that their decision to pursue chiropractic was a wise choice that would enrich their lives beyond measure.

Following a photo with Cleveland III, the students heard from Dr. Ashley Cleveland, provost, who introduced members of the academic team. Dr. Julia Bartlett, dean of clinical education, and Dr. Paul Barlett, dean of pre-clinical education, shared information about the curriculum and academic policies. This was followed by presentations from Jalonna Bowie, director of student services, and David Foose, director of academic records and support. Finally, students heard from several other administrative entities, including the Office of Financial Aid, I.T. and the Cleveland College Fitness Center.

Bowie said the exchange of information at “Day of Welcome” is a valuable part of navigating life at the College.

“Orientation is a key component of any student’s time at the College,” Bowie said. “We share a lot of important information about us, but we are careful not to lose sight of what’s important to them. Whether it’s questions about academics, administration, or policies and procedures, we want to make sure they know what to expect while they are here. It’s just the first step in insuring that their time at Cleveland is successful and enjoyable.”

Although the day is beneficial for the incoming students, it’s also gratifying for the admissions staff. Essentially, it’s a culmination of the extended, long-distance relationship that admissions personnel have established with students over many months of contact.

“Putting names to faces is probably one of the most exciting things about ‘Day of Welcome,’ Denton said. “You send email after email to this person and hear their voice on the phone for months and then your visual perception becomes a reality. This person that you cheered for when they completed their organic chemistry final, or when their house sold so they could pack up and move to Overland Park, is physically in front of you on campus, and they’re excited to begin their new journey and accomplish their educational goals — that’s rewarding and fulfilling.”

Source: Cleveland Chiropractic College, www.cleveland.edu