Two-hundred University of Delaware students arrived early for spring semester to build their social, personal, academic and career skills.

The Spring into Success conference was organized by Residence Life and Housing, New Student Orientation and University Student Centers to provide all students in their first year at UD an opportunity to participate in workshops offering skill development, strategies and resources that can aid in their success as students.

“The conference has been a good experience,” said Xander Opiyo, computer engineering major. “It’s been an equal share of personal development, like the stress management and study skills courses, study abroad, employment opportunities and how to get involved.”

Pre-conference workshops were available during the day on Friday, Feb. 3, for returning students, while new students attended New Student Orientation.

Friday evening’s opening session featured keynote speaker and student motivation expert Arel Moodie. This high-energy, interactive session left students with concrete strategies for success that echoed through the remainder of the conference.

After the keynote session, University Student Centers hosted a preview of Perkins Live.

Sessions on Saturday were on key with general education priorities at UD as well as relevant concerns: topics ranged from study skills and global engagement to savvy media consumption and getting involved in service.

“This is a great way to jump start your spring semester and meet new people,” said Gillian Williams, double major in public policy and organizational and community leadership. “And get a good grasp on some hard skills that you can use during this spring semester.”

The Spring into Success conference was made possible by a grant from the Unidel Foundation.