The Peer Mentor Recap at USU Eastern 2023

For many freshmen, classes began a week early. Those taking USU 1010–also known as a Connections course–moved in Tuesday afternoon so they could be ready for class to start Wednesday. A three-day course, Connections encompassed the rest of the week, and students learned many valuable skills necessary for college success, such as time management and communication. They also became more familiar with the campus and its resources through many activities and workshops.

Students had the opportunity to tour the library, learn about mental health with Jan Thorton, and meet with Jeff Spears, who spoke about the student mentorship program. They also had the opportunity to explore campus and learn answers to commonly asked questions.

Classes were held in the morning and afternoon, but evenings were reserved for a variety of fun activities to give students a chance to interact and meet their peers. The first evening after Connections class, students attended a game night hosted by the Peer Mentors. A large selection of indoor and outdoor games were offered. Campus Rec provided a variety of yard games on the Fountain Field including Cornhole and Nine Square. The Library and Learning Commons contributed various board games for students to enjoy as well as snacks and drinks.

Thursday night was movie night for all students. Held at the King Koal Theatre, students had the opportunity to watch Barbie (fantasy comedy), Talk to Me (horror), or Meg 2 (action). Connections students were given vouchers by their Peer Mentors, and USUSA provided tickets to the rest of the student body.

On Friday USU Eastern held its annual Luminary event. This year, the public was invited to participate for the first time since the event began. The night began with a welcome by Liz Prettyman, Director of Advising and Student Services. After her remarks, Dyson Lighthall, USUSA Vice President, and Kevin Hurst, Director of Students, both spoke about school-life balance and making the most of your Eastern experience. Lighthall also touched on involvement, and Hurst briefly provided tips for a successful year.

Blue lanterns were then passed out, and USU Eastern staff, returning students, and community members took their places on both sides of a designated path. Accompanied by the Drum line, and holding white lanterns, Peer Mentors led the Freshmen down the path. The walk is meant to be symbolic of the educational journey they are beginning, and directly correlated with the path they will one day walk at graduation. Students ended their walk at the Fountain Field, where they filled in a giant letter E. Here, they engaged in several activities with their lanterns while drones captured footage of them.

Afterwards they moved to the Eagle’s Nest, where a broadcast with Logan and Blanding campuses was scheduled. President Elizabeth Cantwell addressed the students and began a countdown for the lighting of the A tower. USU Eastern participated in the countdown, lighting up the USU sign here on campus. After which the ceremony ended, and students were free to leave or take pictures with the USU sign if they chose to.