Every parent knows the story of 'Mother hen and her chicks'. Every child cannot wait for mother hen to let go. However, the anxious reality of the unknown holds true for both parent and child. A new environment, new challenges and new people are all part of a new journey for first year registered Agrisciences students. Agrisciences newcomers were warmly welcomed by both the Agrisciences Student Association (ASA) committee and faculty staff. The comfort was much needed. The anxiety in the atmosphere was soon filled with relief as Prof D Brink (Dean of the Agriscience faculty) took to the podium to introduce the exciting journey that lies ahead. A very informative session regarding University structures and support systems were explained during the proceedings and parents were further comforted into 'letting their chicks go'. During the welcoming programme (which spanned over two days), the ASA took great care to accommodate the next generation of Agrisciences Maties with food, sweet treats and entertainment. Included in the entertainment package was a challenging task, communication without a cellphone (very daunting for any of the new generations). This exercise was nothing shy of entertaining and the newly registered students soon got to know each other. As the programme came to an end there might have been a few feint sighs of relief, complimented with a sense of proudness from the ASA and faculty staff members. Job well done!