‘Nervous,’ ‘excited’ GVSU students move in

ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — It was a busy day in Allendale on Wednesday as students returned to Grand Valley State University for another year of academic success. Fifteen residence halls welcomed students back to campus, with another 12 opening over the course of the rest of the week.

That brought thousands to town to brave well-constructed cues and cones. Families that News 8 spoke with on their way to campus said the operation was running smoothly.

While arriving on campus and unloading station wagons, minivans and moving trucks was light work, the difficult job was saying goodbye.

“I’m very excited for him and trying to focus on that and not think about my emotions of our only son moving out,” Kristine Zelmer, a freshman parent from Edwardsburg, told News 8.

“It’s our third (moving out),” said Melanie May, a freshman parent from Belding. “It does not get easier every time. He’s going to do great. We are very proud.”

Emotions were mixed, with nerves for the students moving in themselves.

“I was excited, but now I’m even more excited,” Emerick Zelmer added. “I got all my stuff into my dorm and it looks great. I can’t wait for what happens next.”

“Feels good. I’m a little nervous,” Kayden May told News 8. “Classes, I’ve gotta find those.”

There’s still plenty of time to find classes and buildings for the incoming freshmen. Academic exercises begin on Aug. 28.

Move-in week is also an important day for businesses and restaurants near campus. The owner of Mancino’s Pizza and Grinders told News 8 it even gets a little emotional for him and his staff.

“It’s exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking at times,” Michael Sirotko said. “It also means it’s the end of summer, so it’s a little sad at the same time, but it’s good for business.”

He told News 8 that with the academic year comes a boost in all kinds of pizza business. Students and faculty frequent their dining room while also increasing individual carry-out orders. In addition, there’s a boom in group orders for parties and department meetings.

Move-in week continues through Friday.

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