Frosh Camp is an important tradition at Windward Community College for the school’s incoming freshmen.
Held twice in August, before the start of each fall semester, Frosh Camp is a two-day interactive experience to help new students get acclimated to the campus and college life.
“I think that the most important thing is that they’ll feel comfortable,” said Scott Sutherland, an educational assistant at Windward Community College. “They won’t feel as nervous. They’ll know some of their teachers and they’ll feel a sense of community at Windward.”
After a round of icebreakers to get things started, camp leaders and organizers hold discussion sessions on a number of topics including college perceptions and tips for student success. The incoming freshmen also get their student IDs and take part in a Campus Quest to learn where everything is on campus. They also sign up for Campus Connections, a series of workshops on the second day of camp where they meet and talk to professors.
“It’s really interesting because when you’re starting high school they don’t really do anything for you. They just tell you where your classes are and stuff and send you out,” said Kyle Wagner Lopez, an incoming freshman.
“This really lets you get to know the teachers and the faculty. So it’s really good,” said Wagner Lopez. “Kind of helps you get in there without shoving you in.”
Fellow incoming freshman Teroa Paselio agrees. “It’s helping a lot,” said Paselio. “I like how the staff is really getting into our business and stuff, like knowing our classes and what we have to do to get into our classes. I’m glad that they help you so on the first day of school you’re not lost.”
“We know that the more students feel connected to the campus, the more likely they are to succeed,” said Sutherland. “We want them to get to know the teachers, we want them to get to know the place and we want them to get to know their fellow students before they start school.”
With Frosh Camp behind them, many of the new students say they feel more prepared for the adventures that lie ahead.
“It’s going pretty good,” said Adrian Faatafuga. “I like the environment here. It’s pretty fun.”
