Welcome Class of 2014

With music blasting and leaders cheering and dancing, the freshmen were overwhelmed by the noise and enthusiasm of their screaming Link Crew leaders at the entrance of the cafeteria so early in the morning (it was 9:45) – but at least they were awake!

The new freshmen on campus are known as the one hundredth graduating class at San Ramon Valley High School, as the school is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.  The slogan on the back of their class t-shirts is, "It took 100 years to get it right!"

After the warm welcome from all of the Link Crew leaders, everyone played icebreaker games, the freshmen were introduced to some of the school's staff, and the morning ended with singing and dancing.

The freshmen then split up into groups of about 12 with two Link Crew leaders. In these small groups in separate classrooms, they got to know each other better and began to learn the ropes of high school. The Link Crew leaders also talked about their experiences in high school and told their group what every freshman should know, such as how to balance homework and sports, how to join or create a club, and how not to procrastinate on projects.

"Orientation was exciting and really fun because we got to do activities to work together with different people and make new friends," said incoming freshman Karson Kwan. "I was kind of nervous to start at a new school and I got a little confused on where my classes were, but overall it was fun."

Behind the scenes, the Link Crew leaders spent two days of training prior to orientation learning activities they would teach the freshmen. They also had to make costumes for all of the freshmen and called them to remind them about orientation and answer any questions.

"My favorite part about being a Link Crew leader was being able to be super crazy and not having to worry about making a fool of myself because it's totally okay!" said senior Nicole Lung. "Plus, the expression on the freshmen's faces were great when they entered the cafeteria and when we approached them in the halls to make sure they're okay. They were really pumped up from our energy!"

After all of the classroom activities were over, the freshmen began a tour of the campus with their small groups. They dressed up for the costume contest, judged by various staff.  Costumes included "Go Fresh(men) deodorant," popcorn boxes, and "Super Frosh" (superheroes).

Following the tour, there was a break for lunch before "school" began for the freshmen, as they were put to the test to find their classrooms. Each period was five minutes long with a five minute passing period. Link Crew leaders lined the halls to help them find their way so that they wouldn't be as lost on the first day of school.

"I liked going to my classes and meeting my teachers," said Armando Roca, an incoming freshman. "It was really helpful."

Overall, the orientation went smoothly and was successful thanks to the help of advisors Mr. Pinkerton and Ms. Pike.

Welcome to the class of 2014!