Biola University’s New Student Orientation kicked off on Aug. 25, celebrating the new semester and welcoming new students to the community. The university faced many challenges with enrollment throughout the pandemic and continues to face decreased enrollment rates. 

WELCOME WEEK RECAP

Incoming freshmen and transfer students had the opportunity to set foot on campus alongside their families for the first time as part of the Biola student body. The Biola community greeted students with tours, resource fairs and University Communion. Families also attended events including a regional mixer and info sessions. 

New Student Orientation connects first-time Biolans with the university community. Throughout this week’s schedule, Biola hosted several events to connect its diverse population. Veteran students had their own orientation and commuters were invited to a dinner hosted in the Collegium. Both groups including Hispanic, transfer, FirstGen and Global students were invited to a dessert reception. All communities came together once again when invited to the President’s Welcome BBQ — an event where students and families can meet Barry H. Corey, president of Biola University. 

ENROLLMENT CONCERNS

Enrollment numbers for Biola University took a hit when the pandemic began. As a result, Biola University set out to bring in more students for this new semester. 

“Our incoming undergraduate goal is 1,000 students and the continuing student goal is 2,283 students for a total of 3,282 enrolled undergraduate students,” said Lee Wilhite, Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing and Communications. 

According to Wilhite, in the last two years, Biola had over 980 students enrolled. This year, so far, Biola has enrolled 922 incoming students but hopes to reach 1,000 over the next few weeks. Final enrollment reports are expected on Sept. 13.