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After the campus tour on Sunday afternoon, everyone met on the lawn outside of St. Frassati Student Center for a barbeque dinner. Grilled chicken, potato salad, corn, and watermelon were served buffet style, and all settled down at the tables to eat and talk. The program’s tutors (members of the teaching faculty) also arrived for the meal, sitting with the programmers and their families. New friendships blossomed quickly as students had a chance to talk to one another without the business of check-in from earlier, and the tables buzzed with laughter and conversation. 

After dinner, there was a travelers’ Mass for those offered by Summer Program chaplain Rev. Moses (Luke ’14) Blain, O.Praem. At last, students said goodbye to their families and headed to Dolben Auditorium for their own orientation. Director of Admissions John Jost introduced the program’s staff to the students, including the admissions and media teams and the chaplains. “I hope you will take advantage of this opportunity at the Summer Program to open your hearts and minds to the Lord,” said Head Chaplain Rev. Greg Markey, “and let Him work in your life through this program.”

Finally, it was time to introduce the prefects! The lights went out in the auditorium, and Admissions Counselor Andrew Grumbine took the microphone to announce each one as members of the group made their exciting entrancess on stage. Set to dramatic music, flashing spotlights, and tremendous applause from the programmers, each prefect ran out as his or her name was called, until the entire team of 16 was assembled. 

After these last introductions, the men and women split off and went back to their residence halls. In the common rooms, the prefects had the opportunity to introduce themselves more personally, sharing stories and the different aspects of the Summer Program that they were passionate about, while also taking questions from the programmers. 

When explanations were over and all questions answered, the party headed outside. Students made themselves comfortable around bonfires, enjoying churros and mozzarella sticks over lively conversation. The night came to a close at curfew and, though they were sorry to put an end to the festivities, everyone speedily fell asleep after a long day of traveling. 

Check the Summer Blog later this afternoon to hear about the programmers’ first day of classes!

More photos from the High School Summer Program

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