First Year students will be split into small groups led by an Orientation Leader or Community Advisor, depending on where they are living. These groups are meant to help foster connections with other new students, led by an older student who is trained to support new students through their transition. These groups are great ways to meet other people and make some new friends right away! 

Required Sessions

For students in the Class of 2030, Welcome Week is required. If you have an absence request, be sure to submit it ahead of time utilizing the absence request process. If you have a disability or require accommodations to allow you to participate, please utilize the accommodations process. The University’s Disability Resource Center (DRC) works with students to provide reasonable accommodations and support access to Welcome Week programs and activities.

All of Welcome Week is required and attendance is taken at several events.

Absences

Attendance at Welcome Week is expected, with the exception of pre-approved absences. Approved absences for Welcome Week include:

• Illness
• Caring for Dependents
• Military Training or Service
• Some State Fair-Related Involvements
• Family Occasions (Wedding or Funeral)

Please plan work and other activities so they do not conflict with your ability to participate during Welcome Week. Students who are part of programs or groups with pre-approved schedule adjustments, such as student-athletes, marching band members, spirit squad members, and other designated student populations, will receive information directly from their program regarding any modified Welcome Week expectations.

Living On Campus
If you are living on campus, you will move in prior to the start of Welcome Week sessions and events. All on-campus moving and housing information can be found on the Housing and Residence Life webpage.

Living Off Campus
Your Welcome Week experience is designed with your unique needs in mind. Here's what to know:
 

• You will receive a schedule tailored to help you navigate Welcome Week events.

• Free parking can be provided if you live more than a mile from campus.

• Look for a mailer arriving in late July with important information.

• Complete your Welcome Week survey to help us personalize your experience.

We’re excited to welcome you to campus soon!

If you live in an on-campus residence hall, Welcome Week meals begin with dinner on Wednesday through dinner Friday. Refer to the M Food Co. website for when full meal plans will be available for students.

If you live off-campus and do not have an M Food Co contract, you will have the opportunity to pre-register for meals offered starting with dinner on Wednesday through dinner Friday when you complete the Off-Campus Survey. Dietary restriction info has been saved from Orientation. If it has changed, please reach out to OTE.

Welcome Week features a variety of signature events designed to help new students build connections, explore campus, and begin their University of Minnesota journey, including:
 

• Pride and Spirit: A long-standing tradition that celebrates school pride and welcomes the incoming class to the University community. Students will learn Minnesota cheers, chants, and gameday traditions and have the opportunity to take part in the new student “M” photo on the field at Huntington Bank Stadium.
   
• New Student Convocation: The University’s official welcome ceremony for new students and a long-standing tradition celebrating community, school pride, and academic excellence. Held in 3M Arena at Mariucci, Convocation brings together the incoming class to hear from University leaders, faculty, and student representatives and experience the spirit of the University of Minnesota, including a performance by the University of Minnesota Marching Band.
   
• Gopher Discovery Fair: An opportunity to connect with hundreds of student groups, campus departments, and University programs. Students can explore their interests, discover involvement opportunities, and find ways to get connected on campus.
   
• Explore U: An opportunity for new students to discover campus resources, student organizations, local businesses, and community partners. Attended by thousands of new students and student leaders, Explore U helps students learn about involvement opportunities, services, and ways to get connected on and beyond campus.
   
• Late Night Movie: A Welcome Week favorite that brings new students together for an outdoor movie experience at Huntington Bank Stadium. Students can relax with friends and enjoy a movie under the lights.
   

Additional events throughout the week provide opportunities to build community, learn about campus life, and prepare for a successful first semester.