Both Shernel, an architectural studies major, and Shernan, an accounting major, will run track and cross-country for the Rams. Attending Jefferson allowed them to pursue their academic interests and continue racing.

“I’m excited to meet new people and make new friends,” says Shernel, who’s older by six hours.

On Aug. 15, all three marched down the “welcome walkway” for Convocation—Jefferson’s annual rite of passage where faculty, staff and Phil the Ram cheer on new students and their families as they enter the Gallagher Center for a special ceremony. The incoming undergraduate class for East Falls Campus features over 830 students from 23 states and 18 countries.

In her welcome, University President Dr. Susan Aldridge recognized the significance of the students starting school during Jefferson’s Bicentennial. She also thanked parents for their support and stressed the value of a Jefferson education, where undergraduates achieve a 97% employment and grad school success rate.

“I love spending time with our students. You’re hopeful and inspiring to us,” she says, urging the new class to take control of their future. “Be bold, creative and joyful as you write this Jefferson chapter in your personal story. I hope this University is everything you dream it will be—intellectually, socially and personally.”

Class of 2022 grad Jared Floryshak shared a simple message for new students in his welcome: Get involved.

“See everything this campus has to offer and lean into it,” says the law and society alumnus. “There’s truly something to do here for everyone.”

Joining clubs, sports and organizations helps students acclimate to Jefferson, meet new people, gain valuable life experiences, develop leadership skills and boost their resumes, he says.

“I met some of my best friends here. I met my girlfriend of five years here. And most importantly, I got a great education here,” Floryshak says. “This campus is a special place.”

Student Government Association President Paris Schell pushed the new class to look inward and use Jefferson’s support resources when necessary, such as the Student Counseling Center and Academic Success Center.

“Think to yourself before the anxiety begins, the stress appears or the assignment is due, what do I need to thrive in college,” says the biopsychology student.

In another special part of Convocation, incoming class members nominated a remarkable high school educator who impacted their academic lives.

This year, the Centennial Educator Award recognized English teacher Eric Weingarten at Girard Academic Music Program, nominated by health sciences/pre-medical imaging and radiation sciences student Juliana Squillace; Dr. Michaelina Greenawalt, health and medical sciences instructor at Lehigh Career and Technical Institute, nominated by health sciences/pre-medical laboratory sciences and biotechnology student Finn Santoro; and Walter Stark, physics and engineering teacher at Pemberton Township High School, nominated by construction management student Angela Bucceri.

Dr. Greenawalt played a major role in Santoro enrolling at Jefferson to explore his interests in genome editing, biotechnology and bioengineering, he explains. “She ignited a passion in me for science, learning and being curious and a critical thinker.”

Bucceri’s teacher also saw her potential, especially with project management and organizational skills, and pushed her in class.

Jefferson stood at the top of Bucceri’s list for much of her time in high school. When she finally visited, “The vibe was, ‘This is a place I want to go. This is a place where I would get all the opportunities to learn,’” she recalls.

Now that the school year has begun, Bucceri looks forward to meeting new people, being independent and taking on more responsibility.

“I’m just excited for the experience,” she says.

See more scenes from move-in day and Convocation below.