Spotlight: Wisconsin Welcome
An ever-increasing number of students took part in last week’s Wisconsin Welcome, which included orientation events geared toward greeting new freshmen and transfer students.
Orientation and New Student Programs began holding Wisconsin Welcome in 1989, says Kathy Kruse, assistant director of the program. Students are the primary participants, says Kruse, but a goal for next year is to include more faculty and staff.
This year’s events included a Rec Sports Night, a transfer student social, a UW A Cappella performance and a snowman-building contest. One of the most popular events featured master hypnotist Jim Wand; more than 900 people attended the Jan. 21 show held at the Wisconsin Union Theater.
Photos by Jeff Miller
Hypnotized students believe they are on a scary rollercoaster ride.
Volunteers are hypnotized to believe they are dogs and dog owners at a national dog show. Pictured is freshman Eric Phillippi.
Volunteers believe they are trash-talking, macho wrestlers.
Master hypnotist Jim Wand hypnotized senior Luke Piwoni, a Wisconsin Welcome student adviser, to believe a microphone stand is the most beautiful woman he could ever kiss.
Polaroid photos taken during the show as proof of students hypnotized by Wand sit on the edge of the stage.
Hypnotized on stage by Wand, freshman Wesley Beck performs as a dancing singer Beyonce Knowles during Friday’s Wisconsin Welcome event.