Senior Day at Irvine Valley
Irvine Valley College welcomed students from various local high schools for “Senior Day” to welcome incoming students for the fall.
The event took place outside of the Student Services Center where food stands and representatives from campus clubs and organizations filled the grassy open area.
“I’m very impressed,” said Kathleen Schrader, Dean of Math and Science. “It looks like a lot of seniors came. It will let them see what college is like.”
Seniors were able to roam around the event and IVC campus while Director of Financial Aid Darryl Cox served as emcee for the day. Cox asked general knowledge questions about the campus and financial aid of attendees in exchange for prizes including a year’s worth of free parking permits and clothes adorned with the college’s name.
“I’m glad seniors are excited about going to college,” said biology instructor Katherine Schmeidler. “That’s always good.”
One radio station provided music as it emanated from its colorful hummer to provide background sounds to the event.
What seemed to be the most popular booth of the day provided artwork to those willing to sit for a portrait. IVC alumni sketched diligently with a pencil in one hand and a pad of paper in their lap as a long line awaited each individual drawing.
Those who desired instant gratification could sit in the photo booth for a few snapshots.
Attendees who visited booths and inquired about clubs and activities received tickets that could be used toward cotton candy, henna tattoos or a their individualized portrait.
The event, overall, gave high school seniors a glimpse of what their college will be like and to see the campus before their first day of classes. Dean Schrader feels that events such as Senior Day are important for community colleges.
“It will let them see what college life is like,” Schrader said. “It is very important for community colleges. Community Colleges can offer as much, if not more [than a four year university] for its two years of school.”