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The Class of 2029 arrived on campus with packed cars, helping hands, and plenty of excitement, as families and friends joined them for the start of Charge In, the University’s official welcome to a new academic year. From Bergami Hall and Bethel to Bixler, Gerber and Westside, students unpacked mini-fridges, bedding, and boxes while volunteers, student-athletes, and Resident Assistants kept the day running smoothly.

For Angeline Carty ’29, a forensic science major from New Jersey, the moment felt surreal. “I’m beyond excited,” she said as she prepared to move into Westside Hall. “The packing process was long, but hopefully unpacking won’t be.”

Her parents laughed and joked, “We can’t wait to get rid of her!” They were already planning to return in the fall for Family Day to check in and catch up on all she experienced.

Across campus, families gathered outside residence halls, pausing for hugs, photos, and goodbyes. Brenden Tresca ’29, a computer science major, had just gone inside Gerber Hall to finish unpacking while his parents and younger brother waited on the lawn.

“I’ll miss him, because I’m going to lose my helper around the house,” his mom admitted with a smile. “He’s an Eagle Scout and knows how to do things.

“I appreciate the move-in here,” she continued. “It’s been a long time since I moved into college, and we were not cared for in this way. It’s a wonderful welcome for the kids, and a great roster of events this week.”

Tresca’s father agreed. “He actually does a lot at home,” he said, while Brenden’s younger brother added with a grin, “I’m a little glad he’s out of the house, but I’ll miss him, especially for sports.”

The Tresca family, who live just half an hour away in Fairfield, said they felt confident in the Charger community. “Emotionally, I’m losing my helper,” his mom said, “but I feel like we’re leaving him in capable hands.”

By mid-morning, students streamed onto the Gerber-Bixler quad, where music played and Charlie the Charger posed for photos. Adriana Malo-Idrobo '29, a forensic science major, was heading to lunch with her family after unloading boxes.

“I’m kind of nervous, but also excited,” she said. “I’m looking forward to campus life this year, getting involved, meeting new friends, and diving into the academics. Everything, really.”

Nearby, Sarah Colaneri ’29, an interior design major, held up the T-shirt each new student received at check-in. “We just got here,” she said, smiling. “I’m glad to be out of the car after a 2.5-hour drive.” Her parents described their feelings as “mixed emotions, but mostly excited.” They admitted the reality of missing her might hit during the drive home.

At Westside Hall — home to the largest group of new Chargers, with 271 new students — resident assistants answered questions and provided an overview of the space. Student-athletes pitched in carrying items, while the Residence Hall Association handed out ice pops to keep spirits cool.

President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., was on hand, helping families carry items and chatting with students about their new beginnings. At each residence hall, Charlie the Charger greeted students with high-fives and fist bumps, keeping everybody’s energy up. “It’s a festive atmosphere,” said Tresca’s mother. “It’s a 360 experience – very immersive energy.”

By early afternoon, most cars had been unloaded, and students were beginning to make their rooms feel like home. Families took a final stroll around campus before heading out, while new Chargers turned their attention to Charge-In activities, from the official class photo to social events designed to bring everyone together.

“I want you to know the AV������ is here to support you,” Ophelie Rowe-Allen said at a special family send-off event. “You are now a Charger!”

With their first official milestone behind them, the Class of 2029 is ready to embark on a journey filled with discovery, connection, and Charger pride.