University greets its freshmen

Asem AbdelfattahStaff Writer Many Troy University students kicked off the new academic year by attending the New Student Odyssey Convocation at the Trojan Arena, where they heard encouraging words from Troy’s administration. Earl Ingram, the vice chancellor of academic affairs, started the event by giving a few words of advice to the new Class of 2022. “Everyone looks great at the starting line,” Ingram said. Ingram advised the new students to attend all their classes and make sure to stay away from distractions and be persistent. “Going to college is like an Olympic marathon,” he said. “It’s a long race, and you only win when you reach the finish line.” Chancellor Jack Hawkins also spoke, addressing the parents in the audience, to assure them Troy University will treat their students like family. “Family values are important at Troy University,” Hawkins said. “I ask you to give your children their freedom while at Troy but also stay close to them and make sure to be by their side for support and guidance.” Hawkins also emphasized the values of “civility” and “dressing for success.” The chancellor then addressed the students, both domestic and international, with his own advice. “One of the most valuable things to gain from Troy is the relationships you build with the faculty and the students,” he said. “We want to know you by name and not by number. “Be involved around campus. The purpose of a higher education is not to make a living but to make a life.” Football Head Coach Neal Brown then invited all the convocation attendees to the Veterans Memorial Stadium on September 1 at 5 p.m. This game against Boise State will be “perhaps the biggest home contest in Troy football program history,” said. Hal Fulmer, the dean of first-year studies, who also said the event was a success.“This event is the starting signal of the academic year,” Fulmer said. “All the inspiring and motivating speeches followed by the lighting of the torch give a great feeling about the academic year. Fulmer encouraged all first-year students to visit his office at the Eldridge Hall student success center. “Our job is to help students succeed,” Fulmer said. “I really encourage students to visit us so we can help them achieve their academic and collegiate goals.” Zeba Qureshi, a freshman nursing major from Dothan, said she felt “really welcomed and at home” following the ceremony.“Both my siblings also went to Troy, but I feel more at home here now than before,” Qureshi said. “I’m excited to have my own Troy experience.” Jim English, a Troy alumnus from Troy who accompanied his daughter to the convocation, said he is excited for the opportunities his daughter will have at Troy. “I came to Troy in the 80s, and a lot has changed since,” English said. “I am proud my daughter chose Troy University, and I’m excited about the opportunities she has here, like study abroad and the access to different experiences. “I feel like she can really expand her horizons here.” Zhenwan -Elijah- Yang, an economics and finance exchange student from China, said he really enjoyed the convocation and expressed his eagerness to experience Troy. “It was great,” Yang said. “I felt very welcomed from the chancellor and other speakers. “I am excited for the classes to start. I can’t wait to attend the football games and hear the band play.”