GW Welcomes Students During Move-In

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The busy scene of students and their families filling into the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campus neighborhoods -suitcases and packed moving bins in tow -signaled the beginning of a new school year at the George Washington University.

During Move-In Week, thousands of students made their way to GW and settled into their residence halls with help from family members.

There was a cheerful energy in the air as students caught up with friends or met new ones, explored campus buildings and planned for an exciting semester ahead.

Twins Tess and Grace Genirs arrived in D.C. ready to begin their sophomore year after making the almost four-hour train ride from Manhattan with their parents.

The sisters said they're looking forward to getting back to campus life.

Tess, who is studying communications at the School of Media and Public Affairs, said she missed her friends and the day-to-day activities at GW.

"We're mostly excited to just have a routine again and to be able to study together, things like that, go to the library," Tess said. "And I'm in a sorority, so I really like seeing those girls and I'm excited to see them again."

Grace, who is studying international affairs at the Elliott School, added she's also looking forward to getting back to classes and learning new things this academic year.

Their mom, Carol, said she's happy to see her daughters begin their sophomore year together.

"It's very exciting. And I think, you know, for any parent, it's difficult, but it's a wonderful moment," Carol said. "So, I'm really excited for them."

The sisters have a notes page on their phone labeled "momisms," filled with things she's told them over the years, so Carol knows they'll be taking some of her advice with them.

The main thing she wants them to remember is to enjoy their time at GW and to work hard as well.

Sienna Santangelo, a sophomore studying political communications, made the five-hour drive to the Foggy Bottom campus with her mom. She said she's happy to be back and is looking forward to walking to her favorite campus spots.

"I'm excited to be with all my friends and to start getting involved again and to start classes," Santangelo said.

Her mom, Rimma, said she hopes her daughter enjoys the year and learns a lot.

"Have fun. Study hard. Do what's best for you. Make great friends," Rimma said.

Below are photos from GW Today photographers William Atkins and Long Nguyen: