Move-in Day brings excitement – and a few tears – for students and families

Sydney Dunigan was excited yet anxious as she arrived on Belknap Campus Thursday. Sydney and her mother, Holly, unloaded their car and began walking toward her new campus home, Unitas Tower. 

“This is our first experience moving a kid into college, so I’m going to have to try to control my emotions today,” Holly said. 

Sydney was one of approximately 2,248 students  who moved in on UofL’s official Move-In day. Even more students were to move in over the weekend before the start of classes Monday.  

“We are so excited to welcome over 3,450 students to the Belknap campus this fall, a new record for the on campus population. We have been preparing all summer long for their arrival and look forward to contributing to their academic success this coming year,” said Thomas Hardy, director of campus housing.   

Like most families, the summer months for the Dunigans were filled with college prep. 

“There was lots of packing, a couple trips to Target and IKEA here and there. We got a couple days of just mom and Sydney shopping time, so we’ve really had a great experience doing this,” Holly said as she held back tears. “I’m excited for her to have a new experience. When I came to UofL, I didn’t have the dorm experience. I commuted every day, so I didn’t feel like a part of it. With Sydney, it’s fantastic because she’ll be in the dorm and be immersed with the activities, so she’ll really have the full experience.”

Max Correard, an incoming freshman from Connecticut majoring in sport administration, moved into Louisville Hall with help from his parents, Greg and Kris Correard.

Max said he decided to come all the way to UofL from his home in New England because of the people he’s met on campus and the positive feeling he got while being here.

“I came here and I just loved the campus. It felt like a big school, but it’s actually not huge and it just felt right. I met with people here and they made me feel like I was more than just a number. I felt like people were actually interested in me and making sure I got the best education that I can,” he said.

Greg said he and his wife are thrilled to see their eldest son begin his college career.

“I’m excited for him to try everything new and to dive in and find out about all the new traditions on campus," he said. "I’m excited for him to spread his wings and start out on this new journey.”

Photos from Move-In Day 2019 are available here. 

Check out more from Move-In Day 2019 below: