More than 5,000 freshmen learned Friday that Penn State students prefer a breakfast of Crunch Berries cereal, the University Creamery produces 2.5 million ice cream cones a year, and, on average, freshmen only change their bed sheets four times a semester.

These unusual statistics accompanied a warm welcome provided by Penn State President Graham Spanier at this year's annual convocation ceremony held at the Bryce Jordan Center.

Spanier recognized the excellence of the incoming class as he encouraged new students to become involved in various organizations and to become acquainted with their professors.

"You were invited to enroll at Penn State because you have great potential," he said.

To emphasize his point, Spanier introduced to the Class of 2009 three sophomore students who made the most of their first year at Penn State.

Kaira Klueber (sophomore-business administration) spoke about the importance of becoming involved early as she recalled her freshman year. "Sitting here last year during this ceremony helped me want to get involved."

Some student groups showcased their talents as freshman students filed into the center, including the Penn State School of Music Jazz Quartet and The Dreamers from the Phi Mu Alpha music fraternity.

Lindsay Carter (freshman-journalism) said she especially liked the sophomores' examples.

"I could see myself getting involved because it's very inspiring and motivating to see people like that," she said.

Undergraduate Student Government President Galen Foulke was also on hand to welcome the Class of 2009, and State College Mayor Bill Welch dubbed the group official citizens of Happy Valley. "We earn the Happy Valley title every day," Welch said. "This is a town full of over-achievers."

Jillian Knowles (freshman-premedicine) said she was overwhelmed by the crowd of 5,000 "over-achievers" at Friday's event.

Knowles added she also felt comfortable with her decision to spend her college years in Happy Valley.

"This event makes me have a lot of Penn State pride," she said. "Everyone here is unified and has at least one thing in common."

Turning the discussion to academics, Janis Jacobs, vice provost and dean of undergraduate education, introduced three faculty members and highlighted their achievements and creative approaches to educating their students.

Jacobs also encouraged students to take advantage of the wide range of educational opportunities.

"Penn State owes every student the integrated education that goes beyond the classroom," she said. "Invest your time in enriching your education."

Vice President for Student Affairs Vicky Triponey recognized the significance of Friday's ceremony.

"Tonight marks the ceremonial beginning of your academic pursuits," she said. "Sooner than you imagine, you'll be joining the ranks of alumni."