HCCC Welcomes New Students 
September 03, 2009
Herkimer County Community College welcomed news students to campus earlier this week with a series of orientation events and activities. In addition to moving into their new residences, meeting other students and attending a variety of workshops and sessions, students attended a convocation ceremony in the varsity gymnasium. President Ann Marie Murray spoke of the virtual life many make for themselves in Second Life, a 3D virtual world imagined and created by its residents, and encouraged students to consider their time at HCCC as their real second life. “For those of you who are looking to the future and are here to become a successful student, I ask that you consider all opportunities that are available to you here at our college, and perhaps consider that this could be in fact for you"a second life, not a virtual one, but a real one,” said Murray. Fellow student Brittany Varin encouraged students to get involved on campus by joining clubs, playing sports and striving for honors. Varin said “Take a step out of your comfort zone, you already know what’s inside, it’s what is outside that zone that can make the most impact. Challenge yourself to meet new people, go to resident activities, get to know your roommates, try new things, and never have any regrets.” Students also heard from Chairman of the Board of Trustees Donald Snyder, Alumni Association representative Cosmo Tangorra Jr. ‘90, Dean of Students Matthew Hawes and Dean of Academic Affairs Daniel Murphy. Following convocation, students attended an inspirational “Voices” presentation and met with academic advisors, and many enjoyed an afternoon outing to Glimmerglass State Park in Cooperstown. Classes began on Wednesday, September 2.