New students welcomed in their first day at UMA
BY CRAIG CROSBY
Staff Writer Kennebec Journal & Morning Sentinel 08/26/2008

AUGUSTA -- Addison Lewis is not your typical first-year college student.

The 16-year-old Raymond girl has already graduated from high school and had a book published.

But Lewis' parents, who attended Monday's orientation for first-year and transfer students at the University of Maine at Augusta with Addison, were experiencing some very typical jitters.

"It makes me feel better about her coming to Augusta," Sharon Lewis said of the opportunity to explore the campus and meet her daughter's professors and administrators during orientation.

Addison Lewis was one of 137 students to take part in Monday's half-day event. For many of the students, the orientation offered the first chance to see the campus before classes begin on Sept. 2.

"I didn't know where anything was," said first-year student Corey Morris of Orford, N.H. "I was really afraid I was going to get lost."

In addition to touring the campus and meeting with professors and administrators, students were invited to attend topics ranging from finances to becoming involved on campus to study skills.

The incoming students also were welcomed by President Allyson Hughes Handley and Dean of Students Kathleen Dexter during a presentation at Jewett Hall.

"My wish for you is that you will realize some of those dreams that have brought you to UMA," Handley said.

Leah Estey, Augusta Student Government Association president, explained the student government's role and encouraged the incoming students to join.

"We're the voice of the students," she said. "We want to hear from you."

Sheri Fraser, director of academic and career advising, said studies have shown students who attend college orientation are more likely to succeed during their time at that college.

"You're investing your time in your college education," Fraser said.

Moses Brathwaite, a freshman who hopes to study applied science and minor in behavioral science, was first attracted to UMA by the diligence of men's basketball coach Jim Ford.

"I called the coach," said 6-foot, 5-inch Brathwaite. "He called me back within an hour."

Brathwaite, who is on active duty through 2011 and is stationed at Brunswick Naval Air Station, was also drawn to Augusta because the university would accept the 70 credits he had earned through online programs. That will allow him to finish his degree in just 18 months.

He will spend the 18 months after that pursuing a degree in computer information systems.

"It's been great," Brathwaite said of her experience entering UMA.

Lewis has still not decided what she will study, but orientation gave her the opportunity to develop preferences for professors.

"This day is going to help," she said.

Craig Crosby--623-3811 Ext. 433

ccrosby@centralmaine.com

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