Fort Valley State University

High school memories are fading fast for some incoming freshmen at Fort Valley State University. “We’re here to move you from where you are now to greatness,” Dr. Said Sewell told 270 students in the presence of a standing room only crowd of parents, guardians and siblings during the first in a series of 4 orientation sessions held at the C. W. Pettigrew Center Friday, June 19.

Sewell, the new executive director of the Academic Success Center, chairs the orientation committee. Before the program began, room noise peaked at barely a hum underscoring the jitters of the campus newcomers. “I’m really excited, but a little bit nervous because this is my first baby to attend college,” said Lashawn Jones of Snellville, Ga.

Reality is finally setting in too for Jones’ son, Jakwon Beauford. His transition to college is now underway. “I’m kinda nervous going into the sessions; jittery about starting something new, but I’m excited about Aug. 8,” he said.

Beauford’s mother listens carefully to the messages of admissions, financial aid, academic counseling, health services and campus safety representatives. “I’m impressed with the staff and how they made the men take their hats off and pull their pants up. It’s the same thing I say. So it feels real good to know that somebody’s saying the same thing that mama says and holds my son accountable.”

Academic testing, campus tours and tutorials about how to navigate the Banner Web system are mainstays of the day-long session. Sewell greets parents, checks in with staff to alleviate housing or financial aid snafus and pushes to make sure the workshops flow on time. “We were able to process at least 250 students. We’ve heard from parents who said they had a very good experience. A new culture is being created at FVSU.”

The orientation committee will gear up again this Friday, June 26 to host its largest group of over 500 students and parents. Two sessions on July 10 and 17 are also scheduled. First-year students are required to register and attend the event. Visit www.fvsu.edu/content/register-orientation-2009. For more information, contact Dr. Sewell at (478) 822-1070.