Wednesday, Sep 8, 2021
These Broncs are calling Rider 'home' after a year of virtual learning
by Rachel Stengel '14, '20
This fall, Rider welcomed the Class of 2025 after more than a year of mainly virtual learning.
"The pandemic has created a number of challenges for students making their college decision," says President Gregory G. Dell'Omo. "Despite these inherent challenges, the Class of 2025 has found that Rider is the place that will help them achieve their dreams. I am so proud to welcome our newest Broncs to campus and look forward to a year where the entire University community can take full advantage of the Rider experience."
The Class of 2025 hails from 25 states. There are some local Broncs, with nine calling Lawrenceville, N.J., home, and 80 students from Mercer County. Ten new students are international, representing Brazil, Colombia, France, India, Jamaica, Norway, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia and Sweden.
Approximately 60% of new students identify as female and 40% as male. Emily/Emilie, Sarah/Sara and Madison are the most popular names for women. Matthew/Matt and Joseph are the most popular names for men.
Being a Bronc runs in the family for 55 new students. About 8% of the Class of 2025 consists of legacy students, meaning a family member previously attended Rider. Seven members of the Class of 2025 have had multiple relatives attend Rider.
Incoming musical theatre student Sydney Druttman is excited to start her collegiate career as a Bronc. Her grandfather Fred Babcock '66 earned his degree in accounting from Rider.
"When I told my grandpa about [my acceptance to Rider] he started crying because he was so proud, and that’s when I knew there was something really special about this school," she says.
This year's class follows similar trends as previous classes with 48% from underrepresented groups. Approximately 41% of Rider’s entire student body is now made up of underrepresented students. Also, 34% of the Class of 2025 report that they are first-generation college students.
This fall, Rider also welcomed 11 new faculty members. They are experts in a range of subjects, from computer science to game design to music education.