New Limestone College students were allowed to move into their residence halls for the first time Friday. Returning students will be moving in starting Monday. Counselors were on hand to brief students about what they can expect for the school year. (Ledger photo / JOE L. HUGHES II) Welcome mats were rolled out last week for Limestone College students and their parents as the school began preparations for the upcoming academic year.

An estimated 300 new students were on campus Friday getting acclimated to their new homes. It is unknown how many are freshman.

However, Limestone College Public Relations Director Josh Crotzer expects that total to fluctuate somewhat by the end of the fall semester.

"We have always seen attendance numbers fluctuate a bit during the drop/add period," Crotzer said. "I don't expect this year to be any different."

Approximately 800 students are expected to attend Limestone this year. An array of activities has been scheduled to welcome students back to the college.

"Students are going to have a lot to do," Crotzer said. "All sorts of orientations and things should keep them busy."

New students took placement tests in English, math and computer skills this past weekend. While their children were taking tests, parents received a crash course on what their family could expect over the next four years.

"This is used to kind of put their minds at ease," Crotzer said.

In addition, the Limestone Campus Ministry held a cookout to help those looking for a place of worship.

"The cookout is primarily a way for local churches to meet and greet incoming students," Crotzer said.

Students also will have the opportunity to do things off school grounds. Starmax will host a bowling night for Limestone, sticking with a partnership the two entities have had since the recreation center opened last year.

"(Starmax) has done things for students in the past with family fun nights and other activities," Crotzer said. "We have built sort of a relationship with them and everyone seems to enjoy themselves."Classes begin at Limestone on Wednesday.