Dana Burnejko, an undeclared student from Clinton, New Jersey, said “I’m really excited and a little nervous. I’m ready to jump in and start making friends.”

Her mother said the ride from just north of Flemington went well and that she appreciated the way students and UD staff helped out with move-in. “I like the fact that UD has good academics and a lot of activities, and a lot of friendly people,” Diane Burnejko said.

Kathryn Rienzi, a fashion merchandising major from Somers, New York, said that what motivated her decision to attend UD was the beauty of the campus and its reputation for academic excellence. “The first time I visited UD, a student walked up and asked me if I needed any help,” Rienzi said. “I was really impressed with that.”

“My youngest is now going off to college,” her mother, Irene Rienzi, said. “UD is the perfect fit, and this is the best move-in experience we have ever experienced.”

Eliezer Shahid, an electrical engineering major from Laurel, Delaware, said he was looking forward to beginning his studies at UD. “UD is close to home, and has a good reputation as an engineering university,” Shahid said, adding, “And I really like the campus.”

Nathan Augenbraun, an electrical engineering major from Newtown, Connecticut, chose UD for its location, academic reputation and cost.

Elliot Stahl, a physics major from Wilmington, Delaware, said UD is the kind of school that attracts students from Delaware and other states, as well. Goals include becoming an astrophysicist and eventually teaching at an institution such as UD.

Xander Opiyo, a computer engineering major from Bear, Delaware, said, “I want to learn in a university that has a well-established record of academic opportunity. It’s also nice to make a new beginning and have the chance to meet new people.”

Kyle Moskowitz, a chemical engineering major, also from Bear, said he chose UD because it has one of the best programs in the United States and that is also close to home. “I’m excited and happy,” Moskowitz said. “I really want to meet new people. It’s going to be fun.”

Nada Hazzaa, an international business major from Montgomery, New Jersey, said she really liked the campus and that fact that UD has a great program for support her major.

Giovanna DiStefano, a pre-veterinary major from Downington, Pennsylvania, described herself as being a bit nervous but very excited about starting her studies at UD. “I had heard that UD has one of the best pre-veterinary programs anywhere,” DiStefano said. “The farm on the UD’s South Campus also is amazing.”

Caitlyn Fernandes, an undeclared major with an interest in business, said, “It really feels good here. The campus is one of the prettiest I have ever seen, and it reminds me a lot of my hometown.”

Bianca Morris, a music performance major from Bear specializing in flute performance, chose UD for its location and the reputation of its music department. “It’s great to be close to home,” Morris said. “I hope to eventually get a master’s degree in music.”

Elizabeth Nocket, a vocal music major from Bear, said she like the fact that UD is close to home and also has a great music program.

Miao Wan, an international business major from China, and recent graduate of the English Language Institute at UD, also was impressed with the beauty of the campus and is looking forward to the academic challenges of a UD education.

A special day

Kathleen Kerr, executive director of Residence Life and Housing, noted that move-in day is a special day for staff as well as for the newly arriving students.

“This is the best day of the year, when the students come back,” Kerr said. “We missed having them over the summer.”

Making move-in day go as smoothly as possible represents the contributions of many campus partners as well as student volunteers, Kerr said.

“We implemented a staggered move-in schedule, with three different arrival times, and everyone so far seems to be following that schedule,” Kerr said as move-in day unfolded. “Helping with all of this are Parking Services, the University Police Department, Grounds, Alumni Relations, Custodial Services, Housing and Facilities personnel, Dining Services, Student Life and our Blue Hen Helpers.”

1743 Welcome Days

With students on campus, a host of 1743 Welcome Days activities were provided.

Planned by the Division of Student Life in collaboration with campus partners, 1743 Welcome Days serves as an extended orientation by which students can familiarize with their new community and learn about self-discovery, personal wellness, social responsibility, and inclusivity.

Student Life includes UD’s Career Services Center, Center for Black Culture, Center for Counseling and Student Development, New Student Orientation, Office of the Dean of Students, Office of Student Conduct, Office of the Vice President, Residence Life and Housing, Student Health Services, Student Services for Athletes, Student Wellness and Health Promotion, and the University Student Centers.