Troy University welcomed around 1,500 new students to the Troy Campus from June 10 through July 12 for IMPACT, the two-day orientation process that prepares students to become a Trojan and gets them excited for their college experience.
During IMPACT, incoming freshmen and transfer students take photos for their student ID, attend a browse session featuring opportunities to get involved around campus, visit academic departments and register for classes. They also get to learn gameday chants from TROY’s head coaches and enjoy a night of ziplining, kickball, canoeing and more at Butter and Egg Adventures.
“IMPACT marks the beginning of their new journey at TROY, and we want to make sure they have the best start possible,” said Jessie Gurlaskie, Director of New Student Orientation. “IMPACT introduces new students to all things TROY—the campus and classes, but also the social aspects of clubs, athletics and Greek life. It’s rewarding to our team that so many of our students leave IMPACT with friends they’re excited to see again once the Fall semester begins.”
Grace Phillips, an incoming freshman from Peoria, Arizona, plans on studying elementary education and spending the time between IMPACT and Rush Week brushing up on TROY’s sororities.
“People are so sweet here. I’ve had a lot of fun, and it’s been nice meeting new people and making new friends,” she said. “This is the furthest I’ve ever been from home, but I’m more excited than nervous. The campus is so pretty and I’m really excited to be here.”
Continuing the family tradition of attending TROY, Makayla Graham from Phenix City, Alabama, hopes to major in accounting and said she appreciated the opportunity to learn the campus before classes start.
“I love it here. Everyone has been so nice and helpful, and I learned a lot of things I didn’t know about TROY before,” she said. “It feels good to be exposed to this much of the campus before classes start. I feel confident, I’m ready to take it all on. I’m excited to meet new people, but I’m mostly excited for my work.”
Parents are also invited to attend Parents Orientation free of charge and are provided with information on student services, expenses and how to assist their student in transitioning to college. They also have the opportunity to meet with selected faculty members and current TROY students.
“The parents and students at the IMPACT sessions have been incredible, and their Trojan Pride is already radiating,” said Korrie Lynn Williamson, Senior Director of Enrollment Services. “I am beyond excited to see these new Trojans begin their journey at TROY!”
April and Mike Wilkes from Panama City Beach, Florida, said their daughter had a strong interest in social work and knew TROY had a “good program.”
“TROY also took our Florida Prepaid, which was nice,” she added.
The family visited last fall, and returning for IMPACT reaffirmed they’d made the right choice.
“We’re really happy we made this decision. There’s been so much information and everyone has been so friendly. It seems like a really family-oriented school, and we like that” Wilkes said. “We like that things seem to be leadership-driven and we liked the director of the social work program.”
As a freshman, their daughter will be living on campus and the pair said they felt satisfied in knowing she would be safe.
“We’re extremely happy with the safety,” she said. “She’s already met three of her roommates, and I think they’re going to get along great and it’s going to be a great experience for all of them.”
A Last Chance IMPACT session is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 12. During this session, students will register for Fall Semester which begins on Aug. 14. To register for Last Chance IMPACT, click here.
For more information, visit the IMPACT website, call 334-670-3179 or email impact@troy.edu.
