Welcome to McKendree University!
New Student Orientation (NSO)
So you’re ready to move away from home and start life as a Bearcat? The excitement
is building, but with that comes nerves as well. We want to make your college transition
as smooth as possible. To help with the process, all new students experience New Student Orientation. This five-day program, scheduled prior to the first day of class, is designed so
you can experience all that McKendree has to offer. You’ll be grouped with your fellow
classmates, an older peer mentor, and a McKendree staff member. Together, you’ll navigate
through various activities and McKendree traditions such as Convocation, Playfair,
and Into the Streets. You will have the chance to ask all of those nerve-racking college
questions, and gain insight from someone who has been in your shoes. Who’s ready to
become a Bearcat?
Opening Convocation (Academic Ceremony)
Just as graduation signifies the end of your college career, convocation signifies
the beginning. Convocation is a McKendree tradition that is deeply valued and cherished.
As a new student, you and your family will come together for this ceremony. After
a welcome address from our University President, every new Bearcat will sign the matricula,
etching your place in McKendree history forever. The matricula is an official document
of the University that marks the beginning of your time at McKendree, and is held
in our official archives indefinitely. If you don’t already, you’ll definitely feel
like a true Bearcat after convocation.
Into the Streets (Service Projects)
During NSO weekend, you and your classmates will have the opportunity to help others
and make a difference in the communities around you. Into the Streets is our yearly
program held on the Saturday of NSO. In a group, you'll be assigned to a local organization
to volunteer for the day. Some organizations we support include the Christian Activity
Center, the NICE foundation, and Stray Rescue. The hope is that through a day of service,
you will learn about the work of not-for-profit organizations and the reason these
organizations exist, increasing your desire to serve throughout college and become
engaged citizens and lifelong learners. As a Bearcat, you'll be given many opportunities
to help others through the Lyn Huxford Center for Community Service.
You'll Like McKendree
Make It McKendree
