Senior Nursing Major Ncuti Ishimwe and freshman agricultural education major Karlea Standlee paint a fence as part of a campus improvement project.

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks began the fall semester with worship and a workday on Aug. 23 with classes beginning on Aug. 24. The traditional Character Camp student orientation took place this week.

Every semester at C of O begins with Character Camp. This week-long experience introduces new students to C of O’s community, including team building, campus service projects, student interaction, and mentorship. Over 300 students were split between 32 different “families” to take part in the orientation.

“Character Camp provides our new students with a Christ-centered experience, creating opportunities for community and personal growth,” said Dean of Students Nick Sharp. “The College is excited to welcome a new class and is committed to fostering an environment that pursues faith together.”

Upperclassman served as “moms” and “pops,” answering questions and leading the new students in events throughout the week.

The week included breakout sessions, convocations, a challenge course, trips to Silver Dollar City and White Water, and campus service projects. As part of the festivities, students participate in the “Catwalk.” During the Catwalk, the incoming class walks through campus together linking arms, displaying unity among classmates. Near the end of their senior year, they will walk the path again, but in reverse order, culminating by exiting the Gates of Opportunity for a social gathering, sponsored by the Alumni Association.

“I had a great experience when I was in Character Camp,” said Ethan Hutchison, senior computer information science major. “My goal as a pop was to show the incoming students the love of Jesus and provide the students in my family with an amazing experience, all while building invaluable relationships.”

The College also uses the week to prepare students for their academic journey.

“Character Camp includes a meeting between new students and their academic advisors, based on their choice of intended major,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College Eric Bolger. “Many professors speak at Character Camp, giving students guidance on how to be successful in college, both academically and personally. Students also write an essay on the College’s vision to develop citizens of Christ-like character. These essays are evaluated, and awards are given to the students who write the best essays.”

COVID Precautions for Fall 2021

Due to the current impact of the delta variant of the coronavirus regionally, all students will be required to wear masks in classrooms from Aug. 24 – Sept. 10. Following this two-week period, administration will reassess the necessity of masking.

Come-and-go traffic for students and visitors will resume for the fall 2021 semester. For some indoor events, visitors may be asked to wear a mask.