Members of Brooks College House, known as Brooksians, begin their residential life at F&M during first-year orientation with the fiery Phoenix Ceremony. Each new resident writes down something that she or he would like to remain a part of their past as they move on to college and enter into the Brooks House community. These declarations are placed into the ceremonial Phoenix Sculpture and immolated in a bonfire on Hartman Green. This "rebirth" through fire epitomizes the symbolism of the phoenix and is an integral part of orientation for new Brooks House residents.