Malaya Thompson is ready to experience a new world as a Ferris State University freshman.

Thompson was among the first students to complete the check-in process at Wink Arena on Thursday, Aug. 24, before heading to her new campus home in North Hall. About 3,000 students will be calling the Big Rapids campus home this fall, greeted by volunteers ready to help them move boxes from vehicles to residence halls, apartments, and suites.  

The freshman from Grand Rapids plans to study Forensic Psychology. Thompson said she is experiencing something new by beginning her Ferris experience. 

“I do not know too many people here. My roommate and I met through an app,” Thompson said. “She reached out, and we have the same interests, so we have shared those and are getting ready for our time on campus.” 

Thompson and her mother were preparing to cross the campus and to begin moving items into her room, preparing for her first time living away from home. 

“I know Ferris is not far from Grand Rapids, but I am looking forward to being on my own and starting my college experience,” Thompson said. 

Director of Housing and Residential Life Lisa Ortiz was on one of her first circuits of facilities welcoming students in the morning session, driving a cart to check in with volunteers, Department of Public Safety cadets and families unloading their vehicles in campus parking lots.

“We have had around 500 students already on campus for more than a week, with athletic teams preparing for their season, our Residence Hall Association staff and others,” Ortiz said. “Thursday will bring approximately 1,000 students and their families here to complete their move-in process, and Friday will be the busiest day of this schedule.”

Bulldogs-in-Action volunteers were active across campus, using golf carts designed to take sizable loads of furnishings, study equipment and many other items from parking areas to the doors of residential facilities.

Jennie Stange, a student activities specialist in the Center for Student Involvement, was at the wheel of a cart near West Commons, bringing items from the parking area to West Campus locations.

“I have been involved with Bulldogs-in-Action each year as I very much enjoy engaging with the students and parents,” Stange said. “It is an important outreach program, whether students are brand new to Ferris or returning to campus. We certainly make their move-in work easier. It makes a good first impression and people love it.”

Ferris State’s Fall 2023 semester classes start on Monday, Aug. 28.