There’s no second chance to make a first impression, and on Aug. 26 and 27, 2021, volunteer teams of University of Delaware faculty, staff, students and community members will help first-year students move into residence halls as a part of the Blue Hen Helpers (BHH) program.

The BHH volunteers welcome new students and their families on move-in day, assist with moving luggage into residence hall rooms and, most importantly, can relieve some of the stress families might feel on a hectic and emotional day.

“Blue Hen Helpers are such a breath of fresh air to new students and families arriving on campus," said Danielle Marenco, business manager in Residence Life and Housing. "Everyone is excited at the start of the year, and some of our new students are very anxious as can be expected. Being welcomed with open arms by upper division students, faculty, staff and local volunteers can help ease them into the transition of moving onto campus.”

James Tweedy, director of Residence Life and Housing, said, "When the UD community gathers to welcome students and their families, it makes a lasting impact on everyone involved. As the academic year picks up, we can become immersed the day-to-day demands — but this is a great time to contribute to the larger picture: students embarking on a once in a lifetime experience, a rite of passage. Showing the students they are supported on their first day is an excellent metaphor for how we want them to feel all four years.”

This year, new student move-in day will run across two days, Thursday, Aug.  26, and Friday, Aug. 27. Helpers can volunteer for three-hour shifts between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Please visit the SignUp Genius to select a shift.