Incoming Franciscan University freshmen say why they came to the Ohio Valley from all over the US

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio (WTRF) — For college students, back to school means a lot more than new pencils and folders, and around 800 Franciscan freshmen are spending the day unloading the van.

It was the university’s biggest incoming class ever, 78 years after beginning as a small college on a hill.

It marks several straight years of record enrollment, after opening a new dorm, a new conference center and a new academic building in just the last year.

Students I spoke with came from Michigan, Georgia, Massachusetts, and even California, all of whom had heard of the Steubenville school’s national and even international reputation for Catholic education.

“I went to a lot of student conferences and I just had such a great time and I came to tour in April. I really just felt like the Lord called me to go here. I’m really excited.”

Mariana Levigne, Studying Theology and Communication Arts

“I like the feel of university, it was small and it felt more like I have a place here. I feel like I belong here.”

Harold Gildehaus, Studying English

The resident assistants were also there to cheer on every move-in car that pulled into the dormitories.

The older students had a message for the Class of 2028: it wasn’t long ago that we were in your shoes, and we’re here to help you through.

“Don’t be afraid of like when things start to change or like get shaky because we’ll help you find your way through and it all works out.”

Emma Reynolds, Resident Assistant

“Don’t be afraid and be confident in yourself. Just like step out and meet people because there’s so many fantastic people that go to school and that live in this area.”

Joey Labbe, Resident Assistant

Classes begin Monday at Franciscan University, but students already have a new coffee shop to check out before they open their books.

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