Saint Xavier University welcomed its newest Cougars on Thursday, Aug. 21, with a full day of activities during Cougar Trax, the university’s orientation program for first-year students.
Cougar Trax marked the official start of students’ academic careers at SXU, 3700 W. 103rd Street, Chicago, combining sessions critical to success in the first year with opportunities for fun, social connections and community-building.
“Coming out of high school, this is a great opportunity to see the campus and meet new people,” Estefani Becerra, of Harvey, said.
Dymond Williams, of Chicago, agreed with her sentiments.
“Everyone has been very welcoming here at Saint Xavier and it is a great way to get acclimated with the school environment,” Williams said.
The one-day program also included the university’s longstanding New Student Induction Ceremony.
The day began at the Shannon Convocation and Athletic Center with welcome remarks and an introduction to life at SXU during the “Stepping Into SXU” session. Students then rotated through three educational workshops designed to familiarize them with campus resources, academic expectations and involvement opportunities.
But for many students, the highlight of the day was First-Year Fest portion of the event.
“I’m entering the nursing program at Saint Xavier and this gave me the opportunity to meet other students in the program,” Shamiya Ramey, of Harvey, said.
The midday celebration gave students a chance to enjoy lunch, relax and meet their peers in an informal setting before the start of the semester. Music and conversation filled the campus as incoming students began forming connections that will carry them through their college experience.
After lunch, students returned for the final round of educational sessions before preparing for the New Student Induction Ceremony in the Shannon Center.
All new students were invited to participate in this symbolic celebration of their official entrance into the Saint Xavier community.
They were greeted by University President Keith Elder, Ph.D., along with members of the cabinet, deans, faculty and staff. A student speaker shared reflections on Saint Xavier’s Mercy heritage and enduring mission, connecting the university’s history to the experiences awaiting the new class.
Led by the student president of the Saint Xavier Council, incoming students recited the new student pledge before receiving a Saint Xavier medallion — a symbol of their membership in the SXU community and the beginning of their academic journeys.
Cougar Trax closed with a sense of excitement and connection as students left the ceremony ready to embark on their first semester at Saint Xavier University.
