For Jon Dooley, vice president for student life, the best part of the move-in experience at Elon is walking around the Schar Center and greeting the families. The drive-in system, implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, allows Dooley to see the new families — and their excitement — firsthand.
“Move-in day is one of the most exciting days of the year,” Dooley said. “The weather is great, the energy is high and the students are excited.”
Dooley also said that move-in is the beginning of a new experience for the students and gives them the chance to move to a new place and make new friends.
“I’m most excited about having the students here, getting them settled into their dorms and meeting new friends,” Dooley said. “Everything is new for the students on the first day, so I’m excited to see the students settle into their new spaces.”
Brothers Sam and Nick Brown are excited to start school together, with younger Nick helping his younger brother Sam move in.
“I’m excited and can’t wait to move in,” Sam said.
John Barnhill, assistant vice president for university advancement, graduated from Elon University in 1992 and spoke about his excitement about welcoming new students as an alumni.
“This is my favorite day of the year. I remember when I moved in and my parents threw my bags over the wall and said, ‘See you in four years,’ and 30 years later I’m still here,” Barnhill said. “I’m so happy for these new students. They’re going to have the best four years and the best experience here. I’m excited and ready to go.”
