Friday marked a special day for Nick Sarno ’28 and his parents, Debbie and Vince, as it was both move-in day at Marietta College and Nick’s birthday.
Approximately 275 new students joined the Marietta College community, with many of them moving into their new residence halls on Friday. The new students kicked off H.O.M.E. (Honoring Our Marietta Experience) Week, an event aimed at helping them prepare for the social, cultural, and academic expectations at Marietta. The week provides an opportunity for the new students to familiarize themselves with the campus, bond with their peers, and get ready for classes starting on Thursday, August 22.
Nick's journey to become a Marietta College student began through his passion for rowing. As a member of the rowing team, he connected with Marietta’s coaching staff and fell in love with the College after a campus visit. His fondness for the College grew even more when his New Jersey high school won the Head of the Muskingum regatta, in which his school competed.
For Nick, Marietta College felt like home right away. He plans to study Sports Medicine and was drawn to the team culture and the close-knit community at the College.
While witnessing their son embark on his academic journey hundreds of miles away, Debbie and Vince expressed mixed emotions.
“We’re thrilled for him,” Debbie said. “I’m getting emotional, but I know that I’ve equipped him with all the tools he needs.”
First-year and transfer students moving into Marietta housing were greeted by current students who were ready to assist with unloading vehicles and moving belongings into the residence halls.
Joshua Radloff ’25, who had been working as the McDonough Leadership EXCEL Coordinator during the week, took on a new role on Friday. Alongside his Delta Tau Delta brothers and other members of the Greek community, he pitched in to make a smooth move-in day for families.
“I wanted to ensure that the new students have the same great experiences that I’ve had here,” Radloff said. “I remember move-in day, and having student volunteers helping made things so much easier on my family. I want the same for the new students.”
Within minutes of pulling up in front of Elsie Newton Hall, Donald Ciminero’s van was emptied, and his son, Nico’s belongings were brought to his room.
“This was nice,” Donald said. “I didn’t expect all this help.”
Fiona Betzold ’28 traveled from Michigan to study Sports Medicine and play lacrosse.
“I’m really excited to be here,” she said. “Everyone has been so nice, and I really can’t wait to be a part of this close-knit community.”
Transfer student Aiyana Hancock ’26 and her mother, Carrie Shook, were already familiar with Marietta.
“I’m from here and transferred to be closer to home,” said Aiyana, who is studying Sport Management. “I was at a school three hours away, which was just too far for me.”
Carrie was pleased with her daughter’s decision.
“She plays softball, and we used to have to travel three hours just to watch her home games,” Debbie said. “I’m happy to have her much closer now and to be able to watch her play. This was a great move.”