Thousands of new Huskers chanted “Go Big Red” as the University of Nebraska–Lincoln officially welcomed them into the community.
The class of 2027 lined up in a winding trail around Memorial Stadium to pass through the gates to the field to the sounds of cheers and “Sirius” by the Alan Parsons Project for their own Tunnel Walk Aug. 18. After taking a group photo in a giant N formation, they watched welcome videos from Paul Pechous, president of the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska, and Chancellor Rodney Bennett before heading to Meier Commons by the Nebraska Union the Chancellor’s Barbecue.
In his video welcome, Bennett noted that it is his first semester on campus as well and encouraged the students to get involved.
Braydn McCorkindale, freshman actuarial science major from Wayne, Nebraska, had been to Husker football games before abut had never spent that much time down on the field.
“It was kind of overwhelming at first because I’m from a small town, but then it was pretty fun seeing everybody who is a freshman,” he said.
He said being new to campus can make it difficult to approach new people but some times all it takes is getting the conversation started.
“You can always do the basic, ‘What’s your major? Where are you from?’” McCorkindale said. “Once you break the ice, it’s easier after that.”
Brynn Baumert, freshman biological systems engineering major from West Point, Nebraska, enjoyed the atmosphere and was also struck by the number of people.
“It’s crazy seeing this many people because this is more than my hometown,” she said.
Baumert said in addition to starting her academic program, she’s excited to participate in campus intramurals.
She’s glad new students had opportunities to get out and about to meet new people.
“It’s cool to see everyone involved and not just in their dorm rooms,” she said.
