West 120th Street was bustling with excitement as nearly 1,000 students prepared to enter the welcoming halls of Teachers College. This year’s theme, “Views from the Big Apple,” captured the quintessential aspects of New York City life, showcasing everything from the neighborhood’s #1 train and the iconic Statue of Liberty to beloved local staples like pizza and bagels. 

This year's incoming class includes students from 41 states and 53 countries, with more than 20 percent identifying as first-generation students. Organized by the Office of Graduate Student Life and Development (GSLD), the three-day New Student Orientation included hands-on activities, essential campus resources and numerous chances to connect with fellow incoming students.

Here’s a closer look.

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

New students were greeted with vibrant energy from NSO staff as they entered Everett Lounge, where they checked in and received an itinerary for the day along with some special TC-themed goodies. 

“New Student Orientation is always such a special time of the year,” shared Fanny He, Senior Associate Director of Graduate Student Life & Development. “We love creating a memorable experience for our new students and welcoming them to the Teachers College community. The energy from NSO carries into the first few weeks of classes, gearing us up for an exciting start to the academic year.”

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

Next, students convened for their department-specific “mix and mingle” sessions, during which they enjoyed lunch, connection and even a surprise appearance from President Bailey and department faculty.

“I’m looking forward to building a community [at Teachers College] because I want to explore research opportunities, make new friends, and explore New York,” shared an incoming student in TC’s International and Comparative Education program. “I hope to work in international education, and TC is an amazing place to begin that journey.”

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

“Views from the Big Apple,” a talk-show-inspired segment, made its debut this year. Hosted by TC’s Tom Rock, Associate Vice President & Chief Student Affairs Officer, Division of Enrollment & Student Success, the event offered students  TC fun facts, trivia, and an opportunity to get to know the TC community better. 

"It’s exhilarating and inspiring to meet our new students who are about to embark upon a journey that we know will be impactful and that will forever change the trajectory of their personal and professional lives,” shared Rock. “From this day forward, TC is now a part of their DNA—a part of their history."

The talk show featured President Thomas Bailey, KerryAnn O’Meara, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Provost, and Dean of the College and several TC alumni including Brennan DuBose, Min Kim and Charmagne Jones-Gall.

“At Teachers College, we believe that interdisciplinary approaches to serious problems can offer much more powerful solutions, and you can take advantage of lots of opportunities around the College to contribute to that work,” shared President Bailey during the roundtable where he offered advice to new students. 

“Over the course of my career, I went in many new directions I hadn’t planned on, and I’m glad I had those opportunities to explore, so I encourage you to keep your eyes open to things you may not be expecting,” Bailey said, noting the College’s emphasis on supporting students through their professional journey. “Even after you’ve graduated from the College, we’re here for you. We want to ensure you are guided along your entire pathway so you can achieve your  goals, here at the College and as you go out into the world.” 

O’Meara also joined the conversation, reflecting on higher education’s role to “create opportunities and open doors,” and sharing what she treasures most about the College: “TC’s history and global nature creates a richness and intellectual diversity that has always been really special. Our faculty are also doing incredible work, often in teams, where they are applying research to practice, learning from what’s happening in the world, and bringing it back to TC.”

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(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

(Photo: Kevin Chiu Films)

During a scavenger hunt designed to highlight campus hotspots, resources, and more, students put their TC knowledge to the test using an interactive campus map and helpful clues.

“I’m looking forward to learning from my peers around me. I’ve learned a lot about the College today and how it helps educators transition into their next steps," shared an incoming student in TC’s Art & Art Education program.

All students were invited to explore “Brain Space,” an opportunity for students to “take a pause” and recharge. Opportunities for calming activities such as tea-tasting, painting and tote bag decorating awaited, providing a perfect way for students to relax and unwind.

NSO concluded with an opportunity to learn more about TC’s diverse campus resources including the Gottesman Libraries,  Cowin Student Success Hub and more. Located in Horace Mann 242, the Hub is named for Trustee Emerita Joyce Berger Cowin, whose leadership and service to the College has been essential to the development of this new offering, which convenes resources across enrollment, academic success, student wellness and more. 

Looking forward to another meaningful year together on #TCWay! 

— Jacqueline Teschon and Sherri Gardner