The beginning of a student’s first semester is often one of their most hectic and exciting times on campus: Picking up books, joining clubs, finding the best study spots or places to grab a coffee. Many first-year students are getting their first taste of independence from families, as well. 

But, before that wondrous feeling of emancipation can take place — who’s going to help you move all of your stuff into your new room?

For Kalieb Yarber, it was the whole family. Mom, dad, and his younger siblings all made the trek from Victorville, California, to help move him into the Tonopah Complex. 

Kalieb is the first of the Yarber children to attend college and the first in his family to attend a four-year university. Both of his parents attended community colleges. And, while he said he’s ready to work hard and focus on his academics, just like he did throughout middle and high school, Kalieb maintains, with an easygoing smile, “Why was I drawn to UNLV? I heard it was a party school.”

Jokes aside, his mother, Heather Yarber, said that UNLV already has helped Kalieb set his sights higher. He is currently majoring in nutrition. He initially planned a future career in travel nursing because, as he put it, he “didn’t think someone from a lower economic level could become a medical doctor.” He was also concerned about post-graduation college debt, but after doing research into scholarships, realized that becoming an ER doctor was within his reach. 

“Plus,” said Kalieb, “I want to show my younger siblings that anything is possible, no matter where you came from or your economic background.”

Packing Light with Confidence

More than 1,500 students will be joining Kalieb in the Dayton, South, Upper Class, and Tonopah residence complexes. Some COVID-19 safety protocols remain in place, such as sanitation stations and more single-occupancy options. This year, students also will have greater access to mental health resources. Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is expanding and plans to embed two counselors in the residence halls within the next academic year.

During the three days of move-in, a procession of vehicles lined up outside of the residence halls. Cars were unpacked and essential items hauled in by cart. While an anxious and emotional time for parents, students, more often than not, were ready for the adventure.

One such student stood calm outside of Dayton Hall. First-year Gregory Holmes of Pahrump by way of San Diego was taking a break after his parents helped to move him into his new room. Gregory, a computer science major whose career goals include becoming a cybersecurity officer for the U.S. Air Force, said his “interest was spiked” to come to UNLV because it’s the only university in Nevada to offer an Air Force ROTC program.

When asked if he had any worries about his first year at college, Gregory replied confidently: “I don’t doubt my abilities to handle it. I want to make sure I stay focused and follow through.”

Outside of academics, Gregory hopes to continue his passion for hiking and athletics by joining the UNLV Mountain Club or any club related to the sports he enjoyed in high school: Rowing, water polo, and volleyball. He’ll be sharing a room with a friend, and said he packed somewhat light after learning from his older sister’s experience.

“My sister packed a lot of stuff,” Gregory said while smiling, “So, it was a struggle.”

Best Advice: Put Yourself Out There

Of course, it wasn’t only first-year students moving into the residence halls. 

Lorrea Corotan is a second-year hospitality major. Her cousin encouraged her to run for a position with the Resident Hall Association (RHA), which helps plan events and advocate on behalf of students living on campus to the university’s administration. 

Last year, Lorrea was elected president for Dayton Complex, a position that should start building her resume for a future career in event management. Originally from Hawaii, Lorrea would like to intern with a local hotel before moving to Los Angeles to organize concerts and other large-scale entertainment events.

As a seasoned sophomore, Lorrea’s advice for first-year students is sound: “My advice would be to put yourself out there. If I didn’t put myself out there, I wouldn’t have known about RHA.”

Learn more about campus life and events for all students.