‘A Pageantry of Humanity’: Pomona College’s Move-In Day Leaves Lasting Impression on Newest Sagehens

Residential advisors and returning students welcomed the newest class of Sagehens to campus as warmly as they’d been welcomed their first day in a new environment.

Hananiah Quinn ’27 and Maria Wen ’27 were among the large group of helping hands emitting positive vibes outside Lyon Court bright and early.

“The energy is always palpable,” said Quinn, an international relations major from Kansas City, Missouri. “We really bring the energy. There’s a lot of anxiety from parents and families, so being able to ease that, to placate that to the best of our abilities, is wonderful.”

“This is part of the reason I love my job and why I love Pomona.”

Colin Dunn ’30 applied to Pomona Early Decision I, his heart set “from the get-go” on experiencing a global perspective from the comfort of his home state. The San Francisco native and musician woke up Saturday nervous—but ready—to be in his new space.

“It’s a good feeling knowing I’ll have some independence,” he said, his electric bass and acoustic guitar at his side. “Everything was amazing. Everyone cheering, streamers in my hair, all this Pomona merch. I’m excited to see everyone else and meet people on campus.”

The warm and organized welcome leaves a positive first impression on new families and reflects the hard work of those who planned the day’s events, said Avis Hinkson, vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

“To see the community come together to welcome our newest members is such a joy.”

The Class of 2030—29% of whom are first-generation students—took a group photo on the steps of Carnegie Hall in the afternoon, then did the time-honored walk Through the Gates with Starr and Hinkson to conclude the traditional Move-In Day festivities.

Pomona College welcomes 414 first-year and 28 new transfer students to campus for the 2026-27 academic year, with 42 states, including Washington, D.C., and 27 countries represented. The new class also includes 15% international students by citizenship.

On a campus buzzing with activity nine months of the year, the fear of missing out on events or experiences is real for students new to Pomona, said Wen, the residential advisor.

“As a first-year student,” the San Francisco native and anthropology major added, “I know I was overwhelmed by all the things Pomona offers. I wanted to do everything.”

Her advice to new Sagehens: “Settle in and figure out where you are before setting expectations for the upcoming year. That way you’re not disappointed by things you couldn’t do and can feel fulfilled by things you could.”