New students officially kicked off their time as Elon students with Convocation Under the Oaks.
The class of 2030 won’t gather all together again until their graduation.
Members of Elon leadership gave speeches sharing advice and words of inspiration for students as they started their college journey.
“The most important steps might be the small ones,” Student Body President Michael Swartz said. “Back into a difficult classroom, towards a professor’s office or into a room where, at first, you may not feel like you belong.”
A major theme throughout the day was community.
“The fastest way through isn’t gritting your teeth by yourself in your room,” Vice President of Student Life Jon Dooley said. “It’s relying on people sitting all around you right now, the ones you haven’t met yet.”
Associate Director of Cultural and Special Programs Patti Gibbons is one of the organizers of convocation. She said the traditions that continue every year make the ceremony memorable.
“After 21 years, I still get choked up,” Gibbons said.
Elon parent Tami Silverstein now has three kids at Elon. She said she’s always been impressed by the support her kids get.
“I always describe coming to Elon as a new parent is, you feel like they’re taking your kids in a big hug,” Silverstein said.
As they left Convocation, students received an acorn. In four years, the class of 2030 will receive oak tree saplings.
“You don’t need to know where these bricks will lead, you only need to believe in yourself enough to take the next step,” Swartz said.