LAMORINDA WEEKLY | SMC students continue a colorful tradition | St. Mary's College | SMC Moraga


Photo Haley Nelson

More than 650 first-year and 160 transfer students moved into their residence halls at Saint Mary's College Aug. 23, with the day kicking off the College's annual Weekend of Welcome for new and returning students. In keeping with the Saint Mary's tradition of service, more than 100 student volunteers comprised of sophomores, juniors, and seniors helped out new Gaels by swooping in to unload cars, carry boxes of school supplies and personal effects, and help the new students transition into their new on-campus home.

Moving into the residence halls was the first of many activities spanning four days, steeped with games, a carnival, resource fair, pool party, and perhaps the most photogenic and physically engaging activity - the distinctly sloppy and fun "Paint the SMC" event, which happened Aug. 25. A longtime SMC tradition, students hiked up the hill to paint the large SMC letters that overlook campus. No brushes were allowed. Students used only their hands to paint not only the SMC letters, but each other as well.