Peddie On Campus Orientation, widely referred to as POCO, is one of Peddie’s greatest traditions to kick off the school year. New students participate in interactive games, scavenger hunts, campus tours and more. It is the perfect way to get to know your new classmates and friends at Peddie.

Two freshman boarding students, Ava and Sadie, gave their insights into their POCO experiences. Both Ava and Sadie were nervous before POCO, mainly because of all the new faces. As roommates, Ava and Sadie quickly became close friends. However, they met many of their other friends during the activities. Sadie’s favorite part of POCO was the slip and slide, and Ava’s favorite was Blue and Gold Games. Ava recalled that her least favorite part was the awkwardness and uneasiness at the very beginning before everyone got to know each other. By the end of POCO, Ava and Sadie felt much more settled in with their new friends. The only questions left were about their classes and teachers.

POCO leaders are also very integral to the process. Sophomore day student and POCO leader Julisa stated, “It is one of the best Peddie traditions that many people on campus can easily get involved in.” Julisa’s favorite part about being a POCO leader was watching the new students come together and make friends. Her favorite games that she helped with were the slip and slide and human knot. Julisa’s advice to future POCO leaders is not to be afraid to help everyone get to know each other and start to make friendships. She said that breaking the awkwardness is important to help everyone settle in.

POCO is one of Peddie’s most valued traditions because of the memories that Peddie students make. It can be one of their first experiences with their closest friends. It is a great way to get acclimated to campus life and have fun playing some interesting games.