Aug. 23, 2009
COLLEGE STATION, Texas - Members of the Texas A&M volleyball team used their day off from a rigorous training schedule to participate in Residence Hall Move-In Assistance Day, welcoming and assisting new and returning Aggies to campus.
The assistance day program was developed by the Department of Residence Life to help students move into the residence halls. Sunday is when the majority of students move into the halls.
"It was good to see all the fresh, smiling faces and to help them get acclimated," Aggie sophomore outside hitter Chelsea Ringel said. "They were very thankful and excited that we made them feel so welcome."
"It was fun meeting everyone," added senior setter Kristen Schevikhoven. "Some people were kind of frantic when they first pulled up, but we helped put them at ease, lugging all of their things to their rooms in one trip. It was nice to be able to help."
The volunteers remained busy throughout their two-hour shift.
"After we finished with one pile, we moved on to the next carload," Schevikhoven said. "There was never time to stop, although I admit I did stop once to take advantage of a refreshing cup of free lemonade at a stand that some five and six-year olds had set up."
The athletes are used to working as a team, but it was one large assemblage of volunteers assisting with the move in.
"Churches, student groups, other sports teams were all helping out," Ringel said. "It was fun for everyone."
Ringel, Schevikhoven and the rest of the volleyball team resume practice on Monday in preparation for their season opener Friday at 10 a.m. against Iona. The players are confident that many of the other volunteers and students that they met on Move-In Day will make them feel welcome when they make their debut at their new home, Reed Arena.