This past week, the class of 2028 was introduced to Prep in what may have been the best, most in-depth freshman orientation yet. The orientation spanned two days, with freshmen arriving at 8:15 and leaving by noon.

The Class of 2025 welcomed each freshman at the front of the chap- el, forming a tunnel to lead each new Hoya into the church and their life as a Prep student.

With the seniors having had a smaller, socially distanced orientation as rising freshmen, they made sure to shake hands, high-five, and even hug their new little brothers.

The orientation began with a speech from our new president of the yard, Tyler Garret, and our headmaster Mr. Glennon. Everyone then funneled into the MPR, where freshmen sat at tables with their advisories and got to know each other and their senior leaders. Dr. Magginis, Mr. Blue, and Dean Rod each spoke to the new class. Dean Rod only yelled at a few freshmen; I have high hopes for the class. The highlight of the day followed: a rock paper scissors competition. The President’s advi- sory took the victory, and each mem- ber was awarded gift cards to Chipotle. Then, seniors led their little brothers to end the day with a campus tour before sending the freshmen off.

The second day started in the South Room with an excellent breakfast. Afterward, the freshmen followed a scheduled walkthrough, navigating the halls of Prep’s many buildings to find their classes, and meeting all their teachers and classmates.

This was followed by an early breakfast, with Oscar and the kitchen staff preparing yet another amazing wel- coming meal. The advisory groups met one last time before the day ended with Mass, led by Fr. Van Dyke. As we start another year of life at Prep, we welcome the class of 2028 with smiles and outstretched arms. Let’s make campus a welcoming second home to the new Hoyas.