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Move-In Monday: Campus Traditions, Lingo, and Tips

Elmira, NY (08/10/2020) — Our summer "Move-In Monday" series continues with tips and tricks for the incoming Class of 2024. Today, the Office of Residence Life team shares some of the lingo and traditions unique to Elmira College, along with some general tips and terms specific to college life.

Uniquely Elmira:

  • The "Puddle" is the pond in front of Cowles Hall.
  • Get ready to sing your heart out! Elmira College has many traditional college songs that new students will learn during Orientation.
  • Special traditions and events like Mountain Day, Holiday Banquet, and Candlelight await you. While we may need to explore adaptations for these traditions this year, that's part of making history. Mountain Day today is not the same as it was in 1919 when it first started, yet it remains one of the most beloved traditions. Our students are resilient and we can't wait to see how they leave their mark on these traditions just as others have before them.
  • The Mark Twain Study, located near Cowles Hall, is the study in which the famous author penned Tom Sawyer and other iconic works.
  • Cowles Hall sits atop Prospect Hill, which was once covered by irises. This is why the iris is a symbol at EC, and also why purple and gold are the College's official colors.
  • Octagons are also a symbol at Elmira College. The shape was popular when Cowles Hall was being built and octagons can be found in architectural and design elements all over campus.
  • The Soaring Eagle mascot pays homage to the city of Elmira, known as the "Soaring Capital of America."

College Life 101:

  • A dorm is called a residence hall.
  • Instructors are professors not teachers.
  • Make sure you have everything you need for college life by checking out the pack list from the Office of Residence Life team.
  • The "Freshman Fifteen" can be a very real thing for all college students. This term refers to the 15 pounds or more new students might gain as they transition to college life, so be sure to make healthy food choices and stay active. The fitness center in Emerson Hall, located near the Speidel Gymnasium, will be available as local and state guidelines allow.
  • Avoid wearing your student ID on a lanyard. It is an easy way to lose it.
  • Take a walk to find buildings and classrooms BEFORE classes start. This will ensure a smooth first day of classes and keeps sheepish glances at the campus map to a minimum.
  • Leave plenty of time to get to classes and avoid being late. Classrooms will be stocked with cleaning supplies, and students should wipe down their desk/chair/table surfaces upon arrival in the classroom.
  • Get involved on campus, virtually and in-person! There are more than 70 student clubs and organizations at Elmira that will help make the transition to college life easier.

Have questions? The Office of Residence Life team is always here to help.

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