Excitement continued to grow at Iowa State as students began moving back into the dorms last week. As boxes were unpacked and parents said their farewells, students anxiously waited for their Iowa State experience to begin. With enrollment numbers continuing to climb this year at the College of Engineering, no one was as proud or thrilled as Dean Jonathan Wickert. “The record enrollment is truly a sign of the value and opportunity that students and their parents see in our program,” explained Wickert.
To usher in the new school year, Wickert, joined by his wife Karen and daughter Rebecca, made his rounds through Friley Hall greeting students. With a bucket of candy and some delicious cookies courtesy of Karen and Rebecca, Wickert chatted pleasantly with students of all majors. Occasionally, he would meet an engineering student, and his face would light up as he discussed the opportunities the college has to offer, hoping to guide the students toward success.
Greeting the students has become an enjoyable tradition not only for Wickert and his family, but also for the students. “Move in day is a really important day for students and parents alike,” said Wickert. “By greeting them and their families, it helps welcome them to the university and establish the friendly atmosphere that we take pride in here at Iowa State.”
Wickert is not the only one looking forward to another beginning. Despite the inevitable challenges of coursework, new and returning students are optimistic about the new school year. Andrew Hartman, freshman in computer engineering, is looking forward to the novelty of living on his own. “I chose Iowa State because they have a great engineering program, but I think that what I am most excited for is all the experiences I will have outside the classroom and the independency of being away from home,” said Hartman.
Sharing Hartman’s enthusiasm is fellow computer engineering student Michael Potter. Being a seasoned student at Iowa State, he is well aware of the opportunities that will await him as he tackles his junior year. “All the opportunities and services that the college has to offer are wonderful,” he said. “Hopefully, my years here will result in a great education that allows me to utilize my degree after graduation.”
Not only has a great reputation for the college been established among engineering students, but students across the entire campus also recognized the college’s value. Mary Harmon, junior in biophysics, serves as a Community Advisor in Friley Hall. Throughout her career at Iowa State, she has heard nothing but great things about the College of Engineering. “I have a couple of engineering students on my floor, and I couldn’t be more excited for them because I know they are going to be a part of such a great program,” explained Harmon.
As students are settling into their new homes, the campus-wide excitement fuels the start of a new year, and the College of Engineering gears up for yet another great school year. Faculty and staff look forward to inspiring the new students and shaping them into Cyclone engineers.
For photos of Wickert and his family greeting students, please visit our Flickr album.