Colgate University first-year students and their families arrive on campus August 26, 2018 in Hamilton, N.Y.
Mark DiOrio / Colgate University
When Colgate welcomed to campus the families of more than 800 incoming students on Sunday, August 26, returning student-athletes, Residence Life staff, and members of student clubs and organizations were on hand to help with move-in.
At 815 students, the Class of 2022 represents one of the university’s largest class sizes and a wide variety of backgrounds. Among those moving in on Sunday were eight sets of twins. Although there are no official records of the number of twins each year, Colgate Vice President and Dean of Admission Gary Ross said he believes this is the largest number of twins in a single class.
Eleri and Laini Mackay of Brookfield, Wisconsin said they came to Colgate because they were initially attracted to the university’s Division I athletic program.
“I heard about Colgate from my high school hockey coach, who set up a visit for my sister and me to see the campus and meet the women’s hockey coaches,” said Eleri. “After I visited, I loved that I felt comfortable walking around campus, and everyone I met was so friendly. On top of that, the academics are amazing and the hockey program is one of a kind.”
Kate and Jack Van Meter of Mendota Heights, Minnesota will both be joining Colgate’s competitive swimming team.
“I believe that the experience of being involved in athletics throughout college will benefit me greatly,” said Jack Van Meter. “Being a part of a team is an amazing feeling because you know you always have people that have your back. No doubt there will be challenges during this experience, but I am prepared to face them — I can overcome anything with the help of my team.”
Kate echoed her brother’s excitement in joining the Colgate athletic tradition.
“A goal of mine has always been to train at a D1 level and I couldn’t imagine doing it anywhere else,” said Kate.
Angelo and Nathan Conlon of Cedarburg, Wisconsin are also excited to start their four-year journey.
“I chose Colgate after I visited the campus,” said Nathan. “I could not get over how beautiful the campus is, and how supportive everyone was. I am excited for classes to start, and to join this incredible community.
Christian Johns ’20, a political science and African American studies double major from Chicago, Ill., volunteered throughout the long-awaited day to help new students unpack and settle into campus. He wanted to use his SGA role as secretary of campus affairs to help out as a best as possible.
“I’m very excited for the first-year students,” Johns said. ”They are all full of joy and have so many opportunities ahead of them.”
Grace and Larsen Klein of Darien, Connecticut said they were attracted to Colgate because of the university’s stellar academics.
“I was most drawn to the liberal arts education at Colgate because of the opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking and analysis,” said Larsen. “I believe these skill sets will be applicable to any and all majors that I could explore at Colgate. That being said, I am most interested in the peace and conflict studies major. The way in which that major looks at history from multiple perspectives interests me as I enjoy studying history and how we can use it to shape our current society.”
Seven of the eight sets of twins in the Class of 2022 pose in front of the Colgate Memorial Chapel.
Mark DiOrio / Colgate University
Grace Klein believes her biggest challenge will be adjusting to the workload of college, yet she is confident she will acclimate well. She also looks forward to activities beyond the classroom.
“I am most excited to participate in different clubs and activities and meet new people,” said Grace. “Both Larsen and I ride horses, so we plan to join the equestrian team.”
Chloe and Zoe You of Suwon, South Korea said they have lived abroad in the past, but they anticipate having to adjust to life in a small town compared to living in a city.
“The one thing that drew both of us to here was the green campus,” said Chloe. “It was so full of trees and grass, and even though there are several large buildings, they all seemed to fit in and be harmonious with the nature around it. I love it here up on the hills surrounded by such beautiful buildings, trees, and people.”
Zoe You said she was attracted to Colgate because of its strong international community, and the close-knit nature of the entire campus.
“I am truly excited to deeply interact with all the domestic and international students at Colgate,” said Zoe You. “I am looking forward to meeting new people and making a strong, supportive community, which I will be able to rely upon for four years and beyond. Being surrounded by people from all over the world, sharing so many different cultures with each other… I am honored to be here together with all the other bright and wonderful students at Colgate.”