Nearly 1,000 new students gathered on West 120th Street, excited to walk through the blue and gold balloon-adorned halls of Teachers College for the annual fall New Student Orientation. This year’s class includes over 1,900 students from 44 states and 55 countries, with more than a quarter being first-generation and two-thirds speaking a second language or bringing work experience. During NSO, the College welcomed them into TC’s vibrant community, contributing to a student body of over 4,000.

Hosted by the Office of Graduate Student Life and Development (GSLD) , the multi-day event offered a robust schedule of interactive activities, informative resources and opportunities to connect with fellow classmates. 

Here's just a small glimpse into the week of events. 

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

Welcome, future changemakers! TC’s newest students were warmly greeted as they entered Everett Lounge in anticipation of the week’s festivities, where they checked in and received some TC-themed goodies.

“Orientation is your gateway to immerse yourself in this exciting journey," shared Denise Boneta, Executive Director of Graduate Student Life & Development. “Our team often reflects on the friendships and opportunities we encountered during our own time in grad school — experiences that profoundly shaped our careers and values. We're committed to providing you with similar opportunities to make lasting memories.”

A complimentary campus tour gave students a closer look at the ins- and -outs of TC’s unique campus.

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

Live from Teachers College…it’s New Student Orientation! Tom Rock, Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer, hosted his annual talk show, which featured special guests from across the College, music, and “Family Feud”-inspired trivia.

“Throughout our history, we [TC] have focused on systemic challenges in education in a broad sense — taking into account physical and mental well-being, with a focus on the public good,” President Thomas Bailey said in his visit with students during the festivities. “This interdisciplinary approach provides opportunities for you as students, and I hope you seek them out and take advantage of them. Forge connections and get involved. And explore the culture, experiences, and people of New York City, which is a classroom all its own.”

“The legacy of Teachers College and the impact TC has had world-wide in the fields of education, health and psychology is profound," shared KerryAnn O’Meara, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Provost, and Dean of the College. “It is a place of excellence and consequential work happening in the past and now, but it’s also a place where people really care about one another and want you to succeed."

At the ODCA Open House event, students had the opportunity to learn about the College’s year-round academic, social and educational programs and connect with TC’s Janice Robinson, Vice President for Diversity and Community Affairs.

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

Lunch is served! Students gathered for community and conversation over a meal during the department-specific “mix and mingle” sessions.

"Our new students are embarking on a journey that we know will be impactful and life changing for them,” added Rock. “We try to provide information in an engaging, informative, and fun way throughout our NSO programming so that our new students not only learn about the College, but so that they also meet others  along the way. Fanny He, Associate Director of Graduate Student Life & Development, is the mastermind behind this program and does a great job executing our ideas.”

How well do you know Teachers College? During a scavenger hunt designed to highlight frequented campus spots and resources, students tested their knowledge using a campus-wide map and helpful clues.

Incoming students give back to the local community by joining Project Linus during TC Serves, assembling blankets for children in underserved communities.

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

Orientation concluded with an opportunity for students to connect and learn more about TC’s diverse collective of student organizations during an Affinity Group Mixer, where students played board games and met leaders from students groups such as Black Student Network, Coalition of Latinx Scholars, Queer TC, Students with Disabilities Affinity Group, Student-Parent Group, TC Veterans, and more.

Until next time, TC! Be sure to stay up to date on future events, happenings and more through the Office of Graduate Student Life & Development and connect with us on social media.

— Jacqueline Teschon