As students across the country prepare to head back to school, TODAY is doing its part to make the transition a little smoother for one college freshman in particular. Craig Melvin recently lent a helping hand to Rutgers University first-year student Ethan Thai as he moved into his dorm at the school’s New Brunswick campus in New Jersey. Ethan, who is from nearby Old Bridge, is part of a massive incoming class of 13,000 students beginning their college journey at Rutgers this year. Craig didn’t just stop by for a quick hello — he went the extra mile, helping Ethan carry his belongings and settle into the space that will be his new home away from home. This moment marks a full-circle experience for Ethan, who back in May made headlines when he announced his college decision live on TODAY. In a joyful moment on the Plaza, Ethan revealed that he’d chosen Rutgers, dancing with excitement as the university’s marching band joined the celebration. Now, just a few months later, he’s taking the first steps of his college experience, with Craig there to cheer him on once again.
In the segment that aired on TODAY Sept. 1, Craig greeted Ethan, his parents, May and Ted, and his sister, Emi, on campus and jokingly warned Ethan, who had not been in his dorm yet, not to expect too much.
“Keep your expectations a little low. This is freshmen housing,” Craig said.
Ethan, whose family remains about 30 minutes away from Rutgers, has a room on the top floor. He was impressed when he finally walked into his new room, alongside his family and Craig.
“It’s pretty nice, actually,” Ethan said.
Craig quickly pointed out a desk.
“Mom, Dad — this is where the magic is going to happen,” the TODAY co-host said.
After Ethan took a seat at the desk and said he would spend all his time there, Craig couldn’t help but poke fun at him.
“That’s going to be the only time he uses that chair,” he quipped, drawing laughter.
Craig, Ethan and his family then got down to business — unloading the car and placing everything, from toiletries to a Spikeball net and a supply of ramen, into a giant red bin to haul upstairs.
“Ethan decided to bring his entire house with him, apparently,” Craig joked as he pushed the bin in the dorm. “Wait until that kid sees my bill, though.”
The crew began the process of setting up the room before May soaked in the moment.
“(It’s very) surreal right now, we’re finally getting him moved in and I’m still not ready to let go yet, so I’m just very excited (for) the next chapter in his life,” May said, as Ethan gave her a little hug.
Ethan also began to understand the enormity of what lies ahead when Craig asked him if he’s doing OK.
“I think so. I wasn’t so emotional now, but I feel like seeing it and …,” he said without finishing the thought.
“It’s getting real,” his father said.
“Getting a little teary myself,” Craig joked, as he wiped his eye.
Craig and Ethan then carried a table up the stairs, complete with Craig yelping “Pivot!,” a clear reference to the famous “Friends” episode in which Ross tries to move a couch.
After the room was finally set up, Craig wished Ethan well, as only he can.
“When you need help moving out, I don’t want you to call me,” he joked.
“Best of luck. You’re gonna crush it,” he added.
