Despite the two people we had to let go, the entire orientation staff put forth everything they possibly could. Nevertheless, there was some force inside us all that said “Let’s put on the best show we could possibly put on!” We had people push themselves past their physical and emotional limits as we helped this last group better understand UT and pick their first classes despite the competition from upperclassmen and orientees from previous sessions. The shows we put on were particularly good and full of unexpected lines despite our supervisors’ advice against ad-libbing. I was one of the guilty ones as I tacked on a little bit of drama at the end of my part.
I have always loved working registration for the Cockrell School of Engineering, and this week was no different. My feat of the week came when someone showed clear signs of losing her composure because she was unable to register for one of the classes she needed. I looked in the course schedule to see what I could do. I saw a section open and added her right into it. Not only was she very happy, but she learned what to do when bad things happen: Keep your cool.
“Follies” is a time for the staff to say goodbye and to make light of each other’s ways, give/get unofficial awards, and for returning orientation advisors to exchange gifts. After a spell of laughter came a lot of hugging and crying. This all-nighter was not a good idea because the deadline to move out is at noon. Thank goodness I packed!
