Freshman Move In at University of Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE – There was a steady drizzle of rain as freshmen started moving into their dorms at University of Mount Olive on Saturday, August 17th, but the atmosphere was full of bright smiles and excitement as students shared their hopes for the future. Family, friends and MOC helpers aided the students as they lugged in their possessions: laptops, mini-fridges, pillows, bedspreads, lamps and of course, packs of ramen noodles.
Sarah Natta of Burlington wanted to attend MOC because of the great demeanor everyone has on campus. “There are a lot of friendly people, and I’ve heard some really good things about it,” said Natta. She is majoring in elementary education, and wants to become an active student on campus. “I’m looking forward to participating in different kinds of clubs and getting involved.” She is thinking of joining the campus activities board (CAB).
Maryanna Bennett of Rocky Mount picked MOC because of its outstanding agriculture program and the size of the classes. “I heard it had a really good agriculture program, and I’m interested in doing something in that program,” said Bennett. She also wants to make new friends. “I’m just really excited to meet a bunch of people that I don’t know from home,” she said.
Alison Vinson of Raleigh also heard great things about MOC’s agriculture program. “I am looking forward to the overall experience of living away from home and starting a new chapter in my life. I plan on joining the FFA since I did that in high school.”
Raheem Ramsey from Maryland is no stranger to MOC. His sister, cousin and parents previously attended the College. “I have played sports my entire life,” Ramsey answered when asked why he picked sports management as his major.
Anthony Edwards came all the way from Chesterfield, Virginia because he liked the energy on the MOC campus. “I thought the environment was nice and it would provide a good learning experience, so I decided to come here,” said Edwards. “Since I’m an athlete, I’m hoping I get a good track experience as well as a good academic one.”
Montell Soloman of Raleigh plans to major in graphic design. He wanted to stay within his comfort zone. “University of Mount Olive was close to home, and I have a couple of friends going here also.” Meeting new people is something he’s looking forward to doing at MOC.
Kenneth Paff is a transfer student from Raleigh, and plans to major in criminal justice. He wanted the college experience while finishing his degree. “It’s a nice school,” Paff said about the College. “You can have personal interactions with all the teachers and get to know everybody, and it’s a great place for me to further my education.”
Returning University of Mount Olive students arrive today, August 19, and classes begin on Tuesday, August 20.
University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The College, sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists, has locations in Mount Olive, New Bern, Wilmington, Goldsboro, Research Triangle Park, Washington and Jacksonville. For more information, visit www.moc.edu.