On August 28 and September 3, there were yellow bins and students everywhere as Kean University volunteers demonstrated their love of community and assisted the freshmen and upperclassmen moving into the residence halls.

The first day of move-ins, welcomed mainly the incoming freshmen and transfer students moving into Freshman, Cougar and Bartlett Halls. The day started early, with cars lining up for the second year of the drive-through process. 

"Due to the success of the inaugural move-in drive-though last year, we have made slight modifications to increase the productivity and experience to welcome over 550 students," said Arion Jamerson, Student Affairs, Director of Communications and Marketing.

As the cars entered the parking lot, they were greeted by a cheer squad as they checked in to get in for the drive-through line. As the cars moved through the line, they were given snacks, water, and smiles by Kean volunteers. Once in front of the residence hall, more volunteers helped students unload the vehicles to move the items up directly to their rooms.

The drive-through required the student to have a second person to drive the car and park after they unloaded the vehicle. Those students who came by themselves were still able to move in by unloading in the Vaugh-Eames or Kean Hall lots and then walking over to the residence halls. All resident hall students also had the option this year to make an appointment to drop off items in their suites prior to the move-in days.

The second day of move-ins was for the upperclassmen resident students moving into the Quad (Burch, Rogers, and Sozio Halls) and Upperclassman Hall.

“We are delighted with the successful and efficient move-in of our 405 upperclassmen residents. This year, we implemented a deliberate approach to streamline the process, ensuring a smooth transition for our students and their families. By allowing families to drive directly to their residence halls and into the quads, we reduced wait times and created a more welcoming and convenient experience,” said Punit Patel, Director of Residence Life.

The move-in shifts began at 7:30 a.m. with about 70 student volunteers to uplift upperclassmen residents and help transport any items to the residence halls. 

“Last semester was my first semester actually, I transferred last Spring. I didn’t live here, so I’m moving in for the first time and I’m pretty excited about that,” said Greg Grasso, a junior Communications Media and Film major moving into Rogers Hall.

He wasn’t the only one excited as many students and families journeyed across campus, laughing and smiling as they made their way to the residence halls and back. The first shift ended at about 11 a.m. when the campus went from being very demure and mindful to busy and bustling with movement.

The second shift began at 10:30 a.m., which consisted of about 80 student volunteers, the highest number of volunteers of the day. This is when the sun shined a bit brighter, and the temperature rose, allowing the students to take advantage of the hydration stations near Downs Hall for water bottles and a quick break. 

The majority of the stations were led by student volunteers. In addition to the hydration station, there were greeters along the route, multiple stations for directional support, and go-carts to assist anyone unable to walk far distances.

“I’m very excited [to be back], I’m looking forward to all of the new events on campus and I’m very excited [happy] that it’s a very beautiful day to move in,” said Marissa Gomez, an early childhood special education major graduating in 2025 who is moving into the Upperclassman Residence Hall.

As the day went on, a new group of students checked in at the gazebo near the tennis court. The last shift of the day went from 1:30 to 5 p.m., running through the second shift that ended at 2 p.m. All volunteers received a t-shirt, which helped to easliy identify the support team throughout the campus.

Over the two days, both move-ins were successful, leaving students and faculty satisfied and excited for the new semester. 

“We’re excited to kick off another great year and look forward to seeing our students Live, Learn, and Thrive in their new spaces,” said Director Patel.