Xaverian students were welcomed back to campus during Orientation Week from September 6th to 8th, reconnecting with friends, meeting new classmates and teachers, taking part in opening liturgies, and hearing about the administration’s outlook for them for the year.

As students filtered into the auditorium, giving hugs and greetings to those they hadn’t seen in months, they prepared themselves for the year ahead. Encouraged by Principal Daniel Sharib ‘96 and President Robert Alesi ‘78, they were reminded of what was expected of them.

“We need you to work hard and put your best foot forward. You are the models the younger students in this building look up to,” said Sharib. 

Wednesday saw orientation for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, where students attended homeroom, received MetroCards, watched a welcome back WXBN episode, and decorated magnetic X’s to put on their lockers. And while many students could have left right after the day’s events were done, many remained on campus to prepare for the following days’ orientations for new students.

“I remember what it was like when I was a freshman and the upperclassmen who talked to me and showed me around,” said Nicholas Baillargeon ‘24. “It made all the difference, so I like to get involved and give back.”

On Thursday, sophomores assisted the 6th-8th graders in Genesis’ Gen X Program, where students got to know each other, played games in the gym, and took part in a mass. 

“It was a great day to learn how to be a Clipper,” said one of Xaverian’s youngest, sixth grader Maggie Koufos. “I met a lot of new people and had a lot fun while doing so.”

Friday saw Big X, Little X, where juniors and seniors welcomed in freshmen. New students made care packages for the needy, participated in a scavenger hunt to get to meet teachers and administrators, were treated to lunch in the cafeteria, completed a run-through of their schedule, and attended mass. 

“I found Big X, Little X helpful because the Big X’s told me where my classes were and told me how to manage my time so I could get my assignments in on time,” said freshman Gabriella Agastino.

After a summer full of planning, the administration was happy to see students back in the building again. Mrs. Jessica Healey, Academic Dean, stated, “I think orientation went well. I think that it was a good intro to what the year is going to be like.”

Orientation was packed with new beginnings, welcoming everyone to the new school year and opening up many new opportunities for all. Good luck this year, Clippers!