Crossroads consists of fun-filled times including information sessions, skits, team building activities, campfires, inspirational speakers, games, food, and plenty of fun ways to get to know your future classmates before classes even start! The goal of Crossroads is for every freshman to leave with a greater understanding of what it means to be a Bellarmine Knight, how to be successful academically and socially, and how to access the resources and support networks available to you on campus.
The cornerstone of the Crossroads experience is the small group experience. There will be two Orientation CREW leaders, current students, for every 12-15 freshmen. In these small groups, you will get a chance to discuss the topics presented at Crossroads within a group of people that you will get to know very well. Small group leaders will remain connected with you throughout your entire freshman year to provide support, assistance, answers, and tips on how to use the many resources available on campus.
Cedarmore Camp and Conference Center rests on 600 acres of rolling hills and woods that provide a pastoral setting, perfect for retreats or conferences. Cedarmore is conveniently located less than an hour from Louisville, yet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A lodge will house all students during each session. There is also space for gathering with the entire group for meals and other activities. Transportation to each session will be provided from campus via bus.
The CREW
The CREW is made up of upperclassmen who serve as student orientation leaders. They are here to lead you through the Crossroads activities, to assist with any questions you might have, and to offer you a real student perspective of what you can expect in the coming year. These are students who have been through orientation and experienced their freshman year at Bellarmine, and they want to share what they have learned with you! CREW members are student leaders who love Bellarmine and who are full of enthusiasm and energy. They have been preparing for Crossroads all year long, and they can’t wait to meet you!
Topics Covered
Time Management
Study Skills
Leadership and Involvement
Diversity
Campus Resources
Bellarmine History & Traditions
Academic Success
Sessions
You will choose from three sessions to accommodate your schedule. Preference for session 3 will be given to students from out of state, so that they may come to campus and remain. Fall athletes should consult with their coaches as to which session to attend.
Session 1: August 15-17
Session 2: August 17-19
Session 3: August 19-21
(Priority will be given to out of state and international students.)
Other Important Dates Thursday, August 21 Freshman Move-In Day
Friday, August 22 Convocation
Monday, August 25 First Day of Classes
Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Is attendance at Crossroads mandatory?
A: Yes. The $200 matriculation fee assessed to all freshmen covers the cost of your Crossroads experience and is non-refundable. Crossroads gives you the opportunity to meet classmates, faculty and staff, as well as learn about the resources available to help you throughout your college experience. We believe attending Crossroads is essential to your first-year success.
Q: How is Crossroads different from the SOAR program?
A: During SOAR, you will get to hear from several offices on campus explaining about the services they have to offer you, including financial aid, security, and the bursar’s office. You also meet with an advisor and register for classes, and you have opportunities for campus and residence hall tours. Crossroads is a much more interactive program that will help you to really begin to interact with and get to know fellow classmates. This may be during small group time or in the lodge during the more unstructured, free time. You will also get an idea of what types of situations you might encounter during your freshman year, and how to handle those situations. The SOAR program takes place over the course of one day, and many attend with their parents. At Crossroads, you get to experience the Bellarmine community on your own for three days and two nights.
Q: May I drive myself to the camp?
A: No, all students are required to ride the bus from Bellarmine’s campus down to the campsite and back.
Q: May I leave the camp at any time during my session?
A: No, students are required to stay on the campsite for the duration of their session.
Q: When should my parents come to campus?
A: If you will be living on campus, we recommend that your family arrive on Thursday, August 21, to help you get moved-in to your residence hall. We encourage all parents to join us on campus Thursday afternoon to sign the matriculation book and enjoy dinner and entertainment! Friday convocation activities will also include parents and families.
Q: Who should my family contact in case of emergency, while I am attending Crossroads?
A: If there is an emergency, parents should contact Campus Security at 502.473.3333. The Security Staff will be able to get in touch with staff and students at Cedarmore.
Q: What Bellarmine staff will be supervising the Crossroads activities?
A: A variety of faculty, staff, and administrators will be in and out to say hello, and talk to students. Jessica Bowman, Assistant Dean of Students, will be supervising all Crossroads activities, including the bus rides to and from campus throughout all three sessions.
