More than 200 students got an early start at Sacramento State this semester thanks to the Hornet Welcome program.

The program, hosted by the Student Activities Office, was designed to help incoming freshmen adjust to college life, said program coordinator Heather Dunn Carlton.

After moving into residence halls on Thursday, participating freshmen and their parents attended a speech and reception.

“We?ve had a really good turnout,” said Panhellenic Sorority Council representative Jill Freedman. “Last year, we had a much smaller program. This is the first year that we are having something on this scale, with 250-300 students.”

On Friday, several campus groups offered seminars such as “How to Land the Perfect College Job” and “What? Nobody Told Me About That!”

“The thing that impressed me the most was the presentations and speeches,” said Tony Cabrera, whose son will be a freshman this fall. “They were very short, informative and lighthearted. I?ve been to too many long, drawn out speeches.”

Students attending the program also sat in on sessions with information about the many services available at Sac State, said Associated Students, Inc. Vice President Eric Guerra.

“We wanted some kind of outlet; too many people find out about our services too late,” Guerra said. “I had been going to Sac State for three-and-a-half years before I even knew they existed.”

The goal of the program, according to the Hornet Welcome Web site, is to educate and involve new students. Freshman Koji Jitosho felt it was successful.

“The best part was learning about the student associations and getting to know the people that run everything,” Jitosho said.

Others appreciated the chance to explore the campus before classes started. “It?s nice to meet new people and learn more about the school so on Monday I won?t be lost,” said freshman Laura Fleischer.