The lines stretched around campus Aug. 22, as 506 new students began their careers on the Hill. From 24 states, as well as China, India, Romania, Botswana and Turkey, first-year and transfer students spent three days getting to know the College and each other.

Upperclassmen wearing yellow shirts swarmed the students’ cars as they reached the residence halls, and carried all their belongings swiftly to their rooms.

Among the comforters, towels and laptops were the treasures students just couldn’t leave behind.

Brittany Jarboe ’11 was sure to bring her blanket emblazoned with a basketball design, made by her best friend. Elyse Sparks ’11 brought decorations to make her room feel more like home. One first-year Art major brought her cherished paintbrushes, while others brought iPods, Playstations and a plush octopus named Russell.

“I brought my pictures, because you have got to have memories with you,” says Anthony Gordon ’11.

The class of 2011 includes 113 athletic team captains, 15 Eagle Scouts, 12 Gold/Silver Award Girl Scouts, 15 student newspaper editors and 75 Student Government members.

A record 52 students are enrolled in the Honors program. Admittance is based on a combination of high school GPA, SAT scores, writing sample, honors classes, AP classes, class rank and any other areas of significant achievement.

While in high school, more than 230 participated in significant community service, including mission trips, tutoring and peer counseling. One worked in inner city Los Angeles with the homeless. One built homes in Tijuana, Mexico, and another tutored children in Lima, Peru. Others continued hurricane relief efforts from Katrina.

More than 200 of the incoming students were active in music and theatre, and more than 150 have held at least one leadership position while in high school.

Although the morning was overcast, the sun shone brightly after Convocation for the traditional ringing of the Old Main bell, signaling the start of each student’s college career.