Union University kicks off semester with Welcome Week
JACKSON, Tenn. — It’s Welcome Week at Union University and the pool party with Campus President Samuel Oliver seems to be at the top of everyone’s list from the activity lineup this week.
It’s Union’s move in day for newcomers. Many current students, faculty, and staff help unload their vehicles to get settled into their apartments. Most tell us they’re excited for the start of the semester.
“It is going to be a fun-packed week, we call it ‘Welcome Week.’ So, there’s a full schedule everyday. We have fun things like the Welcome Week Show which a bunch of the student leaders do silly skits and have a super fun time and the students always love that,” said Emma Pence, Union Life Group leader.
When the students first arrive on campus they are greeted by Life Group leaders to help familiarize them with the Jackson area. Peer leaders tell us their experiences have turned in lifelong memories.
“Getting to be surrounded by people who encourage me, who love fun, who love the Lord and also are super, super smart. It’s almost like going to the minor leagues in high school to the major leagues where it’s like…man, this is another level but it challenges me to be better everyday and I’m super grateful for that,” said Isaac Smith, Union Life Group leader.
Sports are in full effect at Union University as the start of the semester is underway. Union Soccer Coach Steven Cox is impressed with how well they have trained for the season. He’s striving for to them beat their last achievement: receiving 10th place in the nation at the 2021 Conference Tournament.
“We talk about, in our athletic department, being a family and relationships really, really matter in our athletic department and within our team. Today’s day one, we did our fitness test and the guys have prepared really, really well for this upcoming year. We’re excited,” said Cox.
We had a chance to talk to a few students and the energy is present at Union University as they get ready to start the first of the semester.
“We’re very Christ centered here and they really mean that, so the people here just pour into you and they really care about you, you can just tell that in every organization they heave on campus. There’s a lot of organizations and they’re all really really good to be a part of. It’s a really exciting time of the year you know. A lot of nerves but a lot of excitement too so it’s just good to see everyone help out and just make the freshman feel at home,” said Benjamin Blackwood, Union Track Team member.
Union University is ready to raise the bar in education, academics, and positive lifestyle for the campus environment.
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