Students and their supporters are making their way to Trent’s Symons Campus over as they move into residence and prepare to take part in Orientation Week activities in the coming week.

As this is a different, yet dynamic year on campus at Trent, the move in period has been extended in order to allow for physical distancing. Approximately 1,000 students are moving into single room residence rooms in a safe and welcoming way over four days.

“I’m very impressed with the initial work that Trent has put out in communicating with the parents and students and how much they have talked about safety and more information before they actually land here,” said Ruth Thorpe, a parent from Kincardine, whose daughter is starting in her first year as a joint major in Forensic Science and Biology. “Everything was very smooth for us.”

Students moving in may be physically distant, but share a palpable enthusiasm for what lies ahead in their first few weeks and in the first year of their program.

“[The orientation leaders] were very helpful, they helped us find a shortcut and cheered when we came in,” noted incoming International Political Economy student, Jayden Luscombe. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people, having a fresh start and making friends.”

Housing staff, student orientation leaders, and senior administration, including University president, Dr. Leo Groarke and new provost and vice-president Academic Dr. Michael Khan, were all on hand to give Trent’s newest community members a warm welcome, as well as Trent swag.

Incoming Gzowski College resident Abby Henry was welcomed personally by President Groarke, as she received a new Trent mask and a jar of honey from Trent’s Apiary. “I felt like royalty for a second,” she noted, also sharing that she is eager to explore Trent’s 1,400 acre campus. “I’m looking forward to walking around the campus – it is beautiful here and I just want to explore.”