On September 3, 2024, there were yellow bins and students everywhere, Kean University student volunteers demonstrated Kean’s love of community and assisted 405 upperclassmen in moving into Kean’s Residence Halls.

“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 and 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.

And he doesn’t seem to be the only one excited, many students and families journey across campus laughing and smiling as they make their way to the residence halls and back. The first shift ends at about 11 a.m. when the campus goes from being very demure and mindful to busy with movement.

The second shift began at 10:30 a.m. consisting of about 80 student volunteers which was the largest amount of volunteers of the day. This is when the sun shines a bit brighter and the temperature rises allowing students to take advantage of the hydration stations near Downs Hall for water bottles and a quick break. 

The majority of the stations are led by student volunteers. In addition to the hydration station, there were greeters in the Vaughn Eames parking lot, multiple stations for directional support along the parking lot and residence areas and a break room in the Miron Student Center Plaza for student volunteers.

“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 goes on, a new group of students go to check in at the gazebo near the tennis court, the last shift of the day, going from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. running through the second shift that ends at 2 p.m. These student volunteers get the hottest part of the day, most getting rid of their hoodies and grabbing water bottles and multiple bites of food throughout the day. 

In the end, the upperclassmen move-in day was a victory, leaving both 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.