Union will officially welcome the Class of 2021 when students begin moving in on Sunday, Sept. 3.
The 573 students in the incoming class were selected from record 6,676 applications, one of the most impressive admissions cycles in the school’s history.
They hail from 28 states and 16 countries, including Egypt, Greece, Morocco, Nepal and the Netherlands. The class is talented, accomplished and diverse, with 29 percent international or from underrepresented backgrounds. More than 60 percent ranked in the top 10 of their high school class.
The class arrives at a time when Union continues to be recognized for its excellence. Founded in 1795 as the first planned campus in the country, Union is consistently ranked among the nation's top liberal arts colleges.
The school was recently included in the college guide, “The Hidden Ivies,” which highlights exceptional schools that offer a broad liberal arts education. Union was also among the Princeton Review’s list of colleges with the best return on investment, and USA Today’s College Guide ranked Union among the top five STEM schools for women.
At 9 a.m., students will begin moving into their residence halls. At 3 p.m., following a series of activities and programs, they and their families will receive an official welcome from President Stephen C. Ainlay and other College leaders in Memorial Chapel.
At 3:30 p.m., the students will say goodbye to their families before heading off to group orientation activities. There are two events specifically designed for parents: a tea in Schaffer Library from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and a reception hosted by Alumni Relations at 4 p.m. in Memorial Fieldhouse.
At 7:45 p.m., the students pose for a class picture at the Nott Memorial.
Orientation activities continue on Monday with a full slate of programs.
“This can be an emotional day for students and their families,” said Kate Schurick, dean of first-year students. “We are thrilled to welcome the Class of 2021 to campus, and look forward to the energy, talents and diverse perspectives they bring.”
Residence halls open for returning students Tuesday, Sept. 5.
Fall term classes begin Wednesday, Sept. 6.
Opening Convocation, in which the Union community celebrates the official start of the academic year, is set for 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5 in Memorial Chapel, followed by an all-campus barbecue on Rugby Field.