Meeting the Class of 2020

The College of Optometry at UMSL has many distinct features, including small class size, a wide array of externships, successful board pass rates, and high retention, but one of the most defining characteristics is the family feel atmosphere.   Each year the college begins the cycle of recruiting and admitting a new group of individuals from all over the country, and even the world.  These 44-46 students come together as strangers and leave as close friends and even extended members of one another’s families.  

The journey toward becoming this family begins in April at the Class Mixer, where the students meet for the first time and get to know one another.  Spouses, significant others, and even parents are invited to the event; providing the opportunity to know not only the other students but also those who make up their support system.   The class of 2020, along with their families, met on Friday night at Sub Zero for a dinner and drink reception, which allows the incoming class and their guests to meet in a social environment.

On Saturday, April 23, 2016 the students and their guests met for a day-long event to learn more about UMSL including financial aid, student support services, campus safety, campus recreation, and to initiate the journey of looking for housing.  “This weekend is just the beginning for the incoming class to come together and get to know one another better,” commented Director of Student and Alumni Services, Nick Palisch.  

After several weeks, and even months, of reading each other’s biographies on MyGateway and posting on the Class Facebook page, the incoming class was able to meet for the first time. Meeting other students before classes start in the fall allows them to be more comfortable with each other in August. “The mixer allows for the students and significant others to meet in a social setting to get to know each other better.  The mixer is equally important for the significant others as they will be adjusting to the life of an optometry student too,” commented Palisch. 

The incoming class was also able to ask questions of current students about what to expect in the fall.  The University Meadows apartments provided Ted Drewes frozen custard and gooey butter cake, which are both St. Louis staples to the students and guests. During the dessert reception, students were given tours of the apartments and special lease-signing promotion.  Palisch feels the mixer creates the first sense of a family atmosphere and allows the students to interact well before school starts. The mixer helps to ease the nerves and generates excitement for the incoming class.

Some of the students travelled a long distance to meet for the first time, but felt the trip was well worth it. Throughout the summer the class of 2020 will have several more opportunities to get together as a class, including an escape room adventure, Six Flags, bowling, and class picnic.  
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