For the past two years, incoming freshmen visit the school at the end of their eighth-grade year in May.

The "Freshman Welcome," a two-hour event, helps incoming students meet some classmates, feel more at home and showcase the school's art, science, sports and music programs

"We want to make the transition smoother for the students, in particular for those who didn't go to middle school in the neighborhood," said Teri Kane, an alumna and parent volunteer who came up with the idea three years ago after attending a similar event at the University of Arizona. Exposing the students to the wide range of activities in the school gives them ways to get involved, she said.

Rebecca Murday, a sophomore at Willow Glen High School, said attending "Freshman Welcome" helped calm her nerves. "Even though I attended Willow Glen Middle School, I was unsure about how I would fit in, unaware of what I was getting into or how high school worked," said Rebecca, who will welcome freshmen at this year's event. "By the end of the day, I got to know more people and I was able to get information about cheerleading tryouts and talk to the coaches."

Rebecca was the freshman captain for the cheerleading squad. She spent her summer training with the team and developed a close group of friends before school started. "I felt I was a part of the community," she said.

Tarez Goudy attended middle school in downtown San Jose.

"I didn't really know anyone," said the sophomore. "It was very helpful to see the school's environment and meet the teachers and students." She was also able to start training with the water polo team in summer.

While the program is meant to help students feel more at home, Melissa Foster, assistant principal of activities at Willow Glen High, said it provides equal opportunity for parents and students to learn about what the school offers and a chance to speak with teachers and administrators.

Julie Lundquist, whose son is a sophomore at Willow Glen High School, agreed. "We haven't had any children in the San Jose Unified District so it was good chance for my husband and I to find out what the school offers," said Lundquist, who home-schools her children. "It took away some of the unknowns."

Jean Joudy, Tarez's father, thinks every parent and student should make time for the event. "I didn't know about the school but in that short time, I got a glimpse at all the different programs the school has to offer."

The Willow Glen High School's third annual "Freshman Welcome" is May 26 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 2001 Cottle Ave., room W102. Incoming freshmen and their parents can contact Teri Kane at 408.266.1644 or Debbie Bishop at 408.266.1351 or via email at wghsvolunteer @sbcglobal.net if they have not received their invitations.