There will be a lot more traffic on Lake Avenue and White Street in Danbury today and this weekend.  Students are moving into their dorms at Western Connecticut State University.  Dean of Students Walter Cramer says Welcome Week activities kick off at 1:30 this afternoon with their annual Entering the Gates Ceremony.

Cramer says it's symbolic as well as a physical entering of the university.  It starts off the academic year as new students are ushered through the picturesque wrought-iron main gates by alumni, faculty and returning students.

In addition to orientation events geared toward helping freshmen adjust to college live, there are workshops for parents about the transition of sending their children to college.

Cramer says this weekend is a chance for freshmen to get to know other new students and upperclassmen.  The big event is Clubs Carnival on the quad of the Midtown campus.  Students can get a sense of what's available in campus life for them.

With the opening of the Honors House in the old Alumni Hall, the University is looking to renovate the basement of the Midtown Student center to create a performance space.  The Coffee House and other events will be moved there.  he says that will be a great place for commuter students to hang out as well.