faculty yesterday welcomed its newest students.

The Convocation ceremony, which is held annually, brought together both faculty and freshmen in declaring and celebrating the start of the academic year.

College president George Cook opened the proceedings by reminding the freshmen class of the positive choice they had made.

"On deciding to further your education you have also decided to participate in the future of Bermuda,'' Dr. Cook told the class.

"Take advantage of this college and its facilities... It will not be easy, but it will be worthwhile''.

Chairman of the college's Board of Governors, James King, told the freshmen that the entire faculty "fully believes we can provide an enhanced level of education''.

And recent graduate Rebecca Lindo kept her speech short but sweet by encouraging the new pupils to take part in activities and have fun.

"I have really enjoyed my time here so I know you will too,'' she said. "But remember, studies are the most important part of college life and keeping up is always easier than catching up.'' Agreeing with her was Student Council representative Ilethea Morris who also advised the freshmen that even though there was "more to college life than academics'', they should continually keep in mind "what you put in is what you get out''.

Another aspect of convocation was the announcement of those students who achieved academic recognition by reaching the President and Vice-President Lists.

A total of 18 students made the President's List which is reserved for students who earned a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 or above.

And 16 students were named to the Vice-President's List for students who obtain a GPA of 3.0 to 3.5.

Following the naming of these students, freshman Kenji Bean raised the college flag.