Aug. 17 marks the beginning of incoming students’ adventures at Northwestern State University with New Student Convocation. The convocation serves as an official welcome to all new students, formally inviting them to embark on their journey to higher education in Natchitoches. Students buzz with excitement and anticipation not only for the future connections and accomplishments they can achieve, but for the education that NSU’s campus offers to all.
This year’s convocation was led by guest speaker Leighann Westfall, winner of the 2024 Outstanding Young Alumna Distinguished Service Award. Westfall gave incoming students advice that can last throughout their time at NSU, encouraging them to stay true to themselves and always strive to be leaders.
Keith Wade, a freshman physical therapy major, took Westfall’s words to heart. “At first, I was looking at my schedule and credit hours, and I was thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can do all of this.’ This convocation honestly inspired me to keep going even though it might be a little hard and rough sometimes,” Wade said.
The convocation hosts many new university students, but Jasmine Lopez, a freshman early education major, has already lived on campus for two weeks due to her participation in the NSU Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band. Lopez is passionate and eager to join Educators Rising, the professional organization that supports students interested in a career in education.
What Lopez remembered most about the convocation was the kind and unique gesture that James Genovese, the university’s president, gave students. “He made an effort to find similarities between all of us students, and I find that super important. Not only did he connect us, but he made us feel welcomed,” Lopez said.
Ayden Hymel, a freshman musical theater major, shared how welcoming NSU has been to the new students and is excited for the school year. “My goal is to definitely make my mark on campus,” Hymel said. “Musical theater is a huge part of my life, and the fact that I get to take it seriously is amazing. I want to be able to break through and solidify my place here and show the people that I am ready and focused.”
New Student Convocation offers students advice, guidance and reassurance through many encouraging campus leaders, faculty and staff who are determined to help them as they embark on their educational journeys at NSU. The connections these students form with one another and those outside of their year can flourish into beautiful friendships, and the education they gain here can benefit them long after they leave NSU.
