Nearly 900 fresh faces appeared Sunday on the Brandeis campus, most with bright smiles, excited to begin their new lives at college. The Justice welcomes these new students, the Class of 2007, to what we hope they will call their home for the next four years.The arrival of a large group of first-years is always a fortuitous occasion. We are always sad to see our friends graduate and leave Brandeis, but it is opportune for us all to meet new people who bring with them the diversity of thought and opinion that completes college as the fountainhead of liberality that improves our nation and our world.

We also congratulate the Class of 2007 for choosing to come to Brandeis, as we are sure their qualifications offered them many choices. Brandeis is the example of the best of both a liberal arts college and a research university. Brandeis has an ever-growing student body, but a community that feels infinitely smaller. We are a large collection of learners as well as pleasure seekers. The Justice wishes the Class of 2007 the best of luck finding their places as essential individual elements in our community.

It is admirable also that the University seems to be showing its best side to our first-years. Administrators and Orientation leaders are giving their all to welcome new students and make them comfortable here. The campus, with new plantings and new pathways looks impressive in green. The Village, our new upperclass dormitory, has given the approach to the University on South Street an attractive addition. The University's efficient handling of various Internet viruses shows the administration's efficiency and good management. And on Sunday President Reinharz wore a fabulous suit.

With all this considered, the Justice offers a few suggestions to our new friends:

Suggestion One: Brandeis is not what most imagine college to be. There are the ubiquitous frat parties - and we wholeheartedly suggest you go - but every night is not wild on this campus. Fun may not be around every corner, but it certainly is around. Work a little harder and find it, because when you do, it will be worth it to you. But enjoy also what is unlike the college experiences we have all seen in movies. Relish drinking cheap beer under your RA's nose, and discussing Camus at the same time. Have fun seeking out those certain perfect spots on campus - and there are many - and smoking whatever it is you kids smoke.

Suggestion Two: Go wild when picking your classes. There is so much out there and we know none of you really know exactly what you want to learn, because we certainly didn't. Take classes from many departments and experiment, because you must remember four years is plenty of time. Remember also that four years will end before you know it, so while you should indeed choose your classes widely, do choose them wisely. And try to become friends with your professors, because most of them wouldn't mind talking to you after class about what you think, or perhaps meeting you for lunch. Basically, while you're having fun at college, don't forget to learn.

Suggestion Three: Stick it out. Not everyone will love everything and everyone immediately. Brandeis is like a fine wine - or malt liquor - growing bolder and more flavorful with the passing days. What seems bitter now will turn sweeter later. So if you love it, good for you. And if you don't, stick it out, because it's worth it. Trust us.

So welcome once again to the Class of 2007 and welcome back as well to our upperclassmen returning today. Let's drink together - before classes begin Thursday - to another great year in Waltham.