Weekend of Welcome 2025

Clark welcomes hundreds of Running Start students for a specialized orientation weekend

Each student was given a printed copy of their schedule, so that they could find the location of their classes.

More than 500 Running Start students and their supporters gathered on Clark’s main campus for the 2025 Weekend of Welcome (WoW) on Saturday, September 22, 2025. Coordinated by Student Affairs, the all-day event helped students get to know campus, build connections with peers, and prepare for their first college classes. 

“Our goal for this event was to give new Running Start students more than just an introduction to campus,” said Dani Depuy-Grobbel, Assistant Director of Dual Enrollment and Special Programs. “We wanted them to gain practical skills and insights to support their success here at Clark. Students come to Clark with many different educational experiences, and this event is designed to ensure each one leaves with a toolbox of strategies and information to help them thrive academically and build a sense of belonging as part of the Clark College community.” 

Students participated in a scavenger hunt lead by Amy Tam and student ambassador Jude, as one of the six activities during the day.

Divided into groups, students rotated through sessions designed to orient them to college life. They toured campus during a scavenger hunt, locating key resources such as the Help Desk, Tech Hub, and the Penguin Early College (PEC) Center—a dedicated place for Running Start students to study and connect with their peers. Many also walked through their upcoming schedules, mapping out where their classes would be held, and where they would park, catch the bus, or make arrangements for their rides. 

Other sessions focused on the tools and support services at Clark. A session on technology at Clark walked students through MyClark, Canvas, and student email, while other sessions covered topics like safety and wellness, academic success, and what it means to be a Penguin. Meanwhile, Career Services staff encouraged attendees to think about their interests, inspirations, and future goals.  

“Clark is all about building community and creating a sense of belonging,” said presenter Trish Haakonstad. 

Trish Haakonstad, along with Michael Caldwell, far left, lead the career exploration session.

That sense of belonging was already visible throughout the day. Students chatted with old friends and new acquaintances, browsed the bookstore for Clark swag, picked up books and supplies, and had their student ID photos taken. Parents and supporters were also welcomed at the event, with sessions tailored specifically to answer their questions. “Thank you for including the parents—this is helpful so we can help guide our students as they navigate their first collegiate venture,” said one Running Start parent. “We appreciate getting the information for parents online and in person too.” 

During one activity, students were invited to write down their “why” for attending Clark. Responses ranged from seeking an affordable, high-quality education to wanting a challenge beyond high school—they generally maintain an average GPA of above 3.0 at Clark, and about 90% of them are passing their classes here throughout their time at the school. But some had specific reasons for wanting a head start on their college education. 

The event invited not only students but also welcomed parents and supporters.

“I joined Running Start because it gives me a better chance to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse,” one student shared. 

For some, the journey ahead begins with general education courses like College 101 or introductory classes in English, history, and math—sometimes online or at a satellite campus location. Others are already pursuing specialized courses aligned with their chosen career pathways. 

Even when technology hiccups affected a few buildings, presenters adapted seamlessly, keeping the energy high and ensuring students left the day with the information they needed.  

This is the first time post-Covid that Clark has hosted an orientation of this magnitude just for Running Start, and it was one of many ways Clark ensures students are prepared for the new term. Earlier in the week, the college hosted Welcome Day, where all students could explore campus, locate classrooms, and get their questions answered.  

The first week of each term—known as Welcome Week—also provides resources and support to help students transition into the new academic year. Together, these events reflect Clark’s commitment to helping every student feel prepared, connected, and supported from their very first day. 

Participants also took advantage of being on campus to purchase books, supplies, and stock up on Clark College gear.

Learn More About Running Start

Running Start at Clark College allows high school juniors and seniors to earn college credits while completing their high school education—saving students money while advancing their education. Students can attend college at minimal cost while still living at home as a high school student.  

Running Start students select courses that challenge them academically and provide real-world applications. High school counselors review their high school and college courses and verify students are on track to meet their respective high school’s requirements. Many earn their associate degrees in conjunction with their high school diplomas, leaving them prepared to start a career or transfer to a four-year institution. To learn more about this program, visit the Running Start page on Clark’s website. 

The Penguin Early College (PEC) Center is located through the double doors between Gaiser Hall and the library, and it is open Mondays through Thursdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Photos: Clark College/Jenny Shadley