Despite a day of grueling heat, Brandeis' class of 2008 was welcomed by a deluge of spirit and smiles as they arrived on campus Sunday. Beginning at 8 a.m. and lasting through mid-afternoon, orientation leaders, community advisers and other campus staff worked to ensure a smooth move-in for incoming students. "Opening day went amazing," said Alana Hamlett '06, orientation core committee coordinator. "It was very gratifying to watch the new students move in."

Hamlett's thoughts were echoed by many around the campus. "As a parent, I thought it was very organized. The volunteers were so friendly," said Shelley Levine, parent of Jason Levine '08.

"I was stressed, but the Orientation Leaders helped a lot," said Kwame Graves-Fulghan '08.

"I was looking for someone to complain and I couldn't find anybody," said Rick Sawyer, Dean of Student Life. Agreeing with him, Senior Vice President for Students and Enrollment Jean Eddy said, "Our students come across as helpful, friendly and loving."

Perhaps the most challenging part of the day was the heat. Temperatures reached nearly 90 degrees with a relative humidity of over 80 percent. The only relief came from a short sun shower in the early afternoon.

"That sun shower was like an oasis in the middle of the desert," said Orientation Leader Donnie Phillips '06.

At 3:30 p.m., new students and their families gathered at Gosman Sports and Convocation Center for the official opening ceremony of Orientation 2004.

Director of Orientation and First-Year Programs Michelle O'Malley gave the official welcome to the incoming class, saying she recognized the special bond she feels to the new students as a new member of the community herself.

"Starting this new adventure with you, I am confident we will find our way because, like our orientation theme, there are no wrong turns," O'Malley said.

University President Jehuda Reinharz spoke next, reminding students that Brandeis may be "young in years, but it is very rich in its history." He also encouraged all students to take full advantage of what the University has to offer.

As in years past, he closed his address with a reminder for students to call home. After of applause from pleased parents, Reinharz warned them not to call their children too often - a comment receiving an equal round of applause from students.

The closing address was given by Hamlett, who emphasized the journey students and their families will take as they progress through Brandeis.

"This journey may seem intimidating and overwhelming, but it's one that allows change, growth and acceptance," she said. "[...] Realize that your journey will help make Brandeis a stronger community."

As students shuffled out of Gosman and said their final goodbyes to their families, many of them expressed sentiments of eagerness for the upcoming orientation week.

"I'm excited, especially because I heard orientation at Brandeis is supposed to be great," said Jill Seplowitz '08.