The Science Quad was filled with excitement as the Physics Department hosted its annual Welcome Event for first-year students. Although the event was designed for those starting their experience at Waterloo, upper-year students were on hand to greet and connect with the incoming class. Over a hundred students mingled with more than a dozen professors, enjoying conversation and camaraderie outside of the classroom.
To keep everyone fueled for the festivities, a variety of snacks were available, including hot dogs, pretzels, cake, and veggie platters, for students to enjoy. There were games set up for some playful competition, but the highlight of the afternoon was Professor Richard Epp teaching students how to walk on stilts. Yes, stilts. After a quick demo, several brave students gave it a try, turning the Science Quad into a physics-themed circus of sorts.
Faculty speeches offered words of encouragement and insight into the journey ahead for these first-year students. The gathering was organized by Dr. Karen Cummings and Maya El-Baltaji, with support from the Undergraduate Experience Committee, whose efforts helped create a welcoming and memorable start to the academic year.
Students left with full stomachs, new connections, and a sense that physics might be more fun than they ever imagined.