By Annalisa Purser, communications specialist, University Marketing and Communications

[bs_row class=”row”]
[bs_col class=”col-sm-7″]If you’re new to campus (and even if you’re not), download the “New To The U” app right away so you don’t miss out on Welcome Week activities, contests, socials, opportunities to get involved, and of course, free food.

Welcome Week, coordinated by the Center for New Student & Family Programs, began Thursday, Aug. 18, when more than 3,000 students moved into on-campus housing and transformed the campus overnight from its slow-paced summer to a bustling center of excitement.

On Saturday, almost 1,200 first-year students and their families were welcomed to campus by President David W. Pershing, First Lady Sandi Pershing, student leaders and faculty and staff from across campus at New Student Welcome in Kingsbury Hall. The event featured a guest lecture by Martha Bradley-Evans, senior associate vice president for Academic Affairs and dean of Undergraduate Studies.

“I encourage you to fully embrace your opportunities and to be active participants instead of passive observers,” she told the incoming class as she gave them advice on how to make the most of their college experience. “Get an education, read, develop a sense of awe, delve into the local culture, visit museums, visit buildings, find your power spot, work well and learn from other human beings.”

Welcome Week is a time for students at any stage in their career to find out about learning, service and research opportunities offered through the U that not only provide unique life experiences but also build their resumes and prepare them for life after graduation.

“Make more of your education by being more open, more willing to try or take risks, to experience more than you already have,” Bradley-Evans said. “I promise you it will be worth the journey.”

Bradley-Evans oversees the U’s Office for Undergraduate Studies, which provides students with transformative undergraduate experiences through advising, support, advocacy and signature experiences. The office administers programs in global education, community service and research opportunities. Students can connect with these programs and many more during Welcome Week.

“Welcome Week brings together campus programs, offices, academics and clubs in a way that only happens once each year,” said John Michael Pantlik, associate director of the U’s Center for New Student & Family Programs. “By taking advantage of this time, students can set themselves up for success.”

Once the app is downloaded, students, families and staff will have access to the entire Welcome Week schedule of events. Students can browse the full schedule of events, filter by date, categories or keywords, and add specific events to their personal calendars.

Selected events are highlighted to the right, but all events can be found on the “New to the U” app.[/bs_col][bs_col class=”col-sm-5″][bs_well size=”md”]Welcome Back Bash
Monday, Aug. 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Marriott Library Plaza

Stop by the library plaza for a snack and a fun Welcome Week giveaway.

Out-of-State Student Reception
Tuesday, Aug. 23, 4-6 p.m.
Union East Ballroom

New to Utah? Come meet other first-year students who have relocated from other states and make connections. Join the group for snacks and prizes.

PlazaFest
Wednesday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Union Plaza

Hundreds of clubs and organizations will be represented outside the Union for students to learn more about the many ways to get involved.

Transfer Student Social
Thursday, Aug. 25, 9-11 a.m.
Union East Ballroom

Meet and mingle with other students who have recently transferred to the U. This session gives students more information about Transfer Programs offered throughout the year. Students will also enjoy snacks and a chance to win prizes.

Block U Class Picture
Friday, Aug. 26, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Rice-Eccles Stadium

Join the rest of the class of 2020 at Rice-Eccles Stadium for the Block U Class Picture tradition. Pick up an official class of 2020 shirt and then be part of a human-made giant block U on the football field with other members of your class. Upper class students and staff will welcome new students and help form the outline of the U. Enter the event through the ticket office, near Gate A on the south side of the stadium.

Crimson Nights
Friday, Aug. 26, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.
Union

Kick off the school year with the largest late-night event on campus. Beach attire is encouraged for this back-to-school party, and there will be free food, multiple DJs, dancing, activities and more. Crimson Nights is a campus tradition that is free for U students, but a UCard is required to gain access.[/bs_well][/bs_col]
[/bs_row]