For the first time at this year's Opening Exercises, freshmen processed into the University Chapel by the residential college they have joined. Each group was led by the carrier of a colorful banner bearing the college's shield -- the Mathey College banner is visible in the midst of this crowd on Sunday, Sept. 7. The interfaith service traditionally marks the start of each academic year. Classes begin on Thursday, Sept. 11.

Photo: John Jameson, Princeton University Office of Communications

African drummers led the procession of faculty members and administrators in academic regalia.

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications

New students sat with other members of their residential colleges, cheering when one of their own was announced as an academic award winner.

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications

The class of 2012 filled the chapel as the rest of the participants in the ceremony filed in. People flew kites on long poles overhead.

Photo: John Jameson, Princeton University Office of Communications

In her address, President Shirley M. Tilghman challenged the freshmen to take on as their first class project a voter registration drive with the goal of registering all eligible voters and making sure they cast their ballots on Election Day in November.

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications

Following the ceremony, the class of 2012 was led by the banner bearers from the chapel through FitzRandolph Gate for the "pre-rade."

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications

The "pre-rade." gave the freshmen the opportunity to officially enter the campus to start their undergraduate experience and to be greeted by "high-fives" from fellow Princetonians.

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications

Honored for their academic achievements, pictured with, from left, Dean of the College Nancy Malkiel, were Susan Butler, Oguzhan Atay, Bogdan Stoica, Holger Staude, Simion Filip and Qingzhen (Sophie) Wang.

Photo: Brian Wilson, Princeton University Office of Communications