For some, college was just the next step in their plan. For others, it’s something they’ve always longed for. Students on Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) campus on Thursday and Friday got a glimpse into their future as they registered for fall classes.
Harlie Dycus of Terre Haute, who has been working in Providence Health Care prior to being a student, is able to finally attend the school.
“I’ve always wanted to go here. It’s a dream and it’s coming true,” Dycus, who is pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing, said.
Because The Woods is so steeped in tradition, one thing students immediately think of is Ring Day.
Alec Smith said he thinks Ring Day sounds neat and can’t wait to participate, and is looking forward to his first pounding event – where students pound on tables and chant the number of days until they receive their rings.
Smith is pursuing a graphic design degree and is from Lafayette. He will be on the cross country and track teams.
Micaela Moore, a medical technology major from West Lafayette, said she doesn’t know a lot about the traditions here yet, “but I want to learn.” She will be on the field playing soccer when she attends SMWC.
Brennan Randolph, vice president for enrollment and information technology said that for many students in attendance, being able to meet in-person to register was significant.
“We held priority registration virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was successful, however we were so pleased to be able to provide an opportunity for students and families to experience an in-person registration event.”
“A lot of schools probably aren’t doing this, so it’s a good feeling [to be on campus],” Smith said.
“While classes are important, it’s the experience of community many are anticipating … especially this year as so many finished their high school careers online, missing out on sports events, celebrations of the academic achievement and cherished time with their friends during their final semester,” explained Randolph.
Savannah McCoy of West Terre Haute, majoring in nursing, is looking forward to being on the volleyball team and “being able to connect with the girls and having people to support me.”
Similarly, Smith will be connecting with his new team. “The cross country [team] is kind of like the team I had back in high school, and it’s just a really good feeling to be here,” he said.
After the hectic year the Class of 2020 has faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, McCoy said she is also looking forward to having actual classes and not being online.
Moore is also glad she will be on campus and not taking classes online. “I love talking, meeting new people, making new friends,” she said, noting that she is also happy to see the actual campus. “I love how pretty it is – I just love it.”
The next new student registration day will be held July 24 at SMWC.