Every freshman moving into the University of Oregon's 36 residence halls this week will hear a similar personal greeting. "We want new students to know that we are really glad they are here and want to get them off to the best possible start," says Jim Buch, UO director of enrollment services. To do the job, Buch's staff enlisted volunteers and students who know from personal experience how it feels to be the new face on campus. They're ready to roll up their sleeves, pick up a bag and help new students find their way. Even UO President Dave Frohnmayer will be on hand Wednesday to help some of this year's 3,000 new students move in. The welcome mat is out all over campus. Freshmen can learn how to save money on books, pick up last-minute scholarships or take a class in leadership even before formal classes begin next week (Sept. 29). Students can meet new friends at non-alcoholic dances and parties hosted by the university. Freshman Seminars extend the personal touch well into fall term. In this program, first-year students can enroll in small-group seminars taught by senior faculty that cover everything from how to make your own herbal remedies to how to negotiate with people you don't agree with. The Freshman Seminars, says coordinator Sherri Argyres, help students feel they are now a part of the campus community. SOURCE: Jim Buch, UO associate vice president for student academic affairs, (541) 346-1264; e-mail, jbuch@oregon.uoregon.edu -30- #T-1042/Day