U of R welcomes more than 500 first-year students on move-in day

The University of Regina turned into a hive of activity this week as more than 500 students arrived on campus for move-in day, marking the beginning of their first year of university life.

Education student Rylee Moggey admitted that leaving home was the most difficult part. “I’m very close with both my parents… they’re sad, but excited for me though,” she said.

Read more:

• University of Regina terminates main lease with student union URSU
• Cadmus Delorme elected as next University of Regina chancellor
• U of R president addresses concerns after URSU fee collection cut

First-year film production student Chloe Baron (middle) stands with her family and volunteers after moving into residence at the University of Regina. (Jacob Bamhour 980 CJME)

Nursing student Dariia Zabolotnia was focused on the new experiences ahead.

She said she looked forward to residence life and meeting “lots of new people.” Film production student Chloe Baron said she chose Regina because it offered the four-year program she wanted.

Both admitted they had packed sentimental items, like stuffed animals, to make the transition easier.

Others shared enthusiasm about starting fresh.

First-year pre-social work student Colton Hall moved into residence at the University of Regina, saying he was most excited to meet his roommates and start fresh. (Jacob Bamhour 980 CJME)

Colton Hall, from Saskatchewan, said he was eager to meet new roommates as he began pre-social work.

Dallis Newton, who grew up in Central Butte, said the appeal of university was “a new place and just starting fresh.”

For Devlyn McClung, a kinesiology student from Moose Jaw, nerves centred around academics. She said her goal was simple: “a bunch of good grades.” She carried a blanket from home to ease the adjustment.

Behind the bustle, more than 250 volunteers helped unload vehicles and guide families through the process. Bryan Wilson, manager of Housing Services with the university, said the day was a campus-wide effort.

“This is one of the days where the U of R team really comes together… staff, faculty, and students all helping out to make the experience as smooth as possible,” Wilson said.

First-year kinesiology student Delvyn McClung (centre) poses with family after moving into residence at the University of Regina. (Jacob Bamhour 980 CJME)

Students received keys in the parking lot before teams of staff and peers carried belongings to dorm rooms. Orientation activities followed, including information sessions for parents, a community welcome event and a barbecue. Later in the evening, students were invited to watch an outdoor movie at the Kīšik Towers.

Wilson said those events are designed to help newcomers settle into unfamiliar surroundings and start building friendships. “We want people to take away a lot of positivity from their time here. The welcome events are really an opportunity to make new friends and get involved,” he said.

Families unload vehicles outside residence buildings at the University of Regina during move-in day, where more than 500 first-year students arrived on campus. (Jacob Bamhour 980 CJME)

Most students moving in came from across Saskatchewan and other provinces. International students are expected to arrive throughout the week. Wilson said housing had room for more applicants, with information available through the university’s website.

The excitement on campus continues into the long weekend, with residence programming ranging from board games to a ping pong tournament and even an escape room. Welcome Week will run through September 5, ending with the Rams football home opener against Alberta at Mosaic Stadium.