Kick off the academic year with Welcome Week
After incoming students move into the residence halls on Saturday, Aug. 23, Welcome Week events will being later that day and last through Sept. 7.
Welcome Week events are meant to get students connected through various facilitated activities while creating impactful memories.
Kayla Bloemendaal, a sophomore majoring in business and marketing, said participating in Welcome Week activities her freshman year helped with the transition to college.
Among her favorite Welcome Week activity was the outdoor movie event at Newman Field.
Bloemendaal encourages incoming students to patriciate in Welcome Week to easily make connections. Her advice is to get outside of your comfort zone and meet new people.
“I think students should attend Welcome Week activities purely because it allows you to meet your neighbors, greet new people and make a bunch of friends,” she said. “Attending activities also makes you more familiar with campus. It makes you feel not as lost and more at home.”
There will be several activities to attend throughout the week. Below are some to look out for.
Group Events
Saturday, Aug. 23 through Monday, Aug. 25
Various locations
Group events are required for all first-year students to connect with others and attend events together, including Welcome to the Academy and college meetings. Check myNDSU for your Welcome Week group’s schedule and additional information.
Saturday Night Live
Saturday, Aug. 23, 7:45 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Memorial Union
Head to the Memorial Union to try a variety of activities hosted by student organizations and campus departments. Food and prizes will be available.
Walk Through the Gates
Monday, Aug. 25, 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Corner of 12th Avenue and University Drive
Join fellow students in the traditional walk-though of the main campus gates. The Gold Star Marching Band will play music, and faculty, staff, current students and President David Cook will all be present to cheer you on.
First Day Photos
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Bison Statue
Grab a photo by the Bison statue on your way to classes to share with family and friends.
Memorial Union Open House
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Memorial Union
Check out all that the Memorial Union has to offer by stopping by a variety of activities and booths.
Tie-Dye Night
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Babbling Brook
Hang out with friends while creating a unique NDSU-themed tie-dye shirt. Shirts and dye will be provided.
Block Party
Thursday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Reed-Johnson/Weible Recreation Area
Don’t miss out on a night of music, yard games, snacks and fun.
Meet the Farm Animals
Friday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Shepperd Arena
NDSU has rich agricultural roots as a land-grant university. Get to know the animals, including sheep, pigs and more.
Discover Downtown
Saturday, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sept. 1
Downtown Fargo
Experience all that downtown Fargo has to offer by checking out local stores and restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Red River Farmers Market on Saturday, and make sure to take a photo at each location downtown for a chance to win a prize.
Student Involvement Expo
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Putnam Field (next to Old Main)
Explore hundreds of student organizations to find what sparks your interest.
Part-Time Jobs Fair
Thursday, Sept. 4, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Memorial Union Oceti Sakowin Ballroom
Learn about the various part-time employment opportunities across campus. Students from all majors are welcome to attend.
For a full list of events, check out the Welcome Week schedule.