Making the leap into college life is quite an adjustment for any student.

The University of Montana’s American Indian Services Program is hoping to help the transition be more comfortable for Native students – who sometimes face overwhelming economic and social changes – by holding a “Moving Camp Orientation” for students before the semester begins.

A press release from the program explains:

The Moving Camp Orientation, hosted by UM’s American Indian Student Services, allows students to enter their new environment while tying into the tradition of Native American “moving camps.” Tribes moved camp primarily during hunting season to follow bison and secure future survival and prosperity, according to AISS. Students can now “move camp” with their classmates and learn ways to secure their future success and prosperity as part of the UM community.

The event will take place on Aug. 22.

The day aims to address the sometimes overwhelming economic and social changes that occur when native students relocate to Missoula and UM. The Day of Welcome events help ease the transition and afford students the chance to build friendships, and learn about services and opportunities while forming a supportive social network.

“We are enthusiastic about the upcoming academic year, starting with the Moving Camp,” said AISS Director Fredricka Hunter. “We have a great lineup of events to support native students on The University of Montana campus. It’s always an exciting time to see the journey of our native students moving from their community and transitioning to become part of the UM community. With this move comes change, challenge and growth.”

The Day of Welcome will begin with a traditional prayer led by an elder in the Bonnie HeavyRunner Gathering Place at The Payne Family Native American Center and an introduction from UM President Royce Engstrom, Vice President of Student Affairs Teresa Branch, Dean of Students Randy Voorhees and Provost Perry Brown.

Students will have the opportunity to join the UM Student Involvement Network for team-building activities and explore campus offices and departments throughout the day, including Admissions and Enrollment Services, the Office for Student Success, the Office for Civic Engagement, Financial Aid Services and the Missoula Indian Center.

For more information, call AISS Program Assistant Jinann Bitar at 406-243-6305 or email jinann.bitar@umontana.edu.

Jenna Cederberg