The University of Toledo is ready to launch its much-anticipated Rocket Welcome Weekend, scheduled from August 22 to August 25. This annual event serves as both an exciting introduction and warm welcome for new and returning students, coinciding nicely with the start of the fall semester on August 26.
Beginning on Thursday, August 22, students will start moving back to their residence halls, ushering in the weekend's festivities. Highlights will include energetic campus activities, opportunities to engage with faculty and peers, and several community-building events.
Friday kicks off with the energetic Rocky’s Welcome event, taking place from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. at Savage Arena. This program is specially organized for first-year, transfer and adult students to get acquainted with key faculty and student leaders.
Interim University President Matt Schroeder will help with move-in duties on the same day, making appearances at Parks Tower during both morning and evening shift hours. Later, students are invited to relax at the Flatlands bonfire, complete with music, yard games, and, of course, s’mores.
The weekend continues with exciting activities including the Class of 2028 barbecue at noon on Friday, followed by the annual Rocky’s Welcome. For all students, the CAP Carnival takes over from 5 to 8 p.m. at Carter Field, featuring games, rides, and delicious food.
Saturday, August 24, is another packed day beginning with the Class of 2028 Lunch from noon to 1 p.m. at the Flatlands, wrapping up with Flicks on the Field at Glass Bowl Stadium, where students can enjoy movies under the stars.
Friday's itinerary also includes several engaging activities; starting the day is the Academic Adventure event at Main Campus locations from 10:30 a.m. to noon, which aims to connect incoming students with their respective colleges. Later, commuter and residential students can gather to meet and participate in crafts, each from 1 to 1:45 p.m.
A spirited Class of 2028 group photo is planned for 3 to 3:30 p.m. at Glass Bowl Stadium, capturing memories for years to come. Maintaining the vibrancy of the weekend, Rocky and Rocksy’s Meet Up offers interactive icebreakers and conversation starters for new students from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
On Sunday, the activities culminate with the Jam Session from 6 to 9 p.m. at Centennial Mall Steps, hosted by the National Pan-Hellenic Council, showcasing stroll performances by the Divine 9 fraternities and sororities.
Everyone will carry the fun beyond Welcome Weekend with Monday's Sundaes on a Monday event, treating students at Thompson Student Union/Centennial Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, the Campus involvement Fair on Wednesday, August 28, will provide opportunities for students to explore local organizations and student performances.
For the adventurous, Saturday, August 31 offers Rockets to the Point, where students can join the Office of Student Engagement on a thrilling day trip to Cedar Point. More detailed information as well as RSVPs can be found on the university's webpage.
For anyone interested, there’s also more information about the various events lined up on the Rocket Welcome Weekend website. The full roster of exciting activities promises to not only welcome newcomers but also enrich the campus community.
Transitioning to campus life can sometimes feel overwhelming, but students at California State University, Northridge have valuable advice from returning students and faculty members to ease the way. From finding parking to making new friends, there’s plenty of wisdom shared by those who have navigated the campus before.
Returning students stress the importance of arriving early for classes to secure parking spots, especially during the first few weeks of the semester. It's one of those small yet significant tips shared by senior Ruby Durant, reminding newbies to get there 20 to 30 minutes beforehand.
Familiarizing oneself with the campus before classes start can significantly mitigate stress. Senior Tyler Yamauchi encourages all new students to visit the campus environment before their first day to get the lay of the land and to enjoy Associated Students events like Welcome Week.
Tim Szczepanski, from Associated Students, emphasizes the idea of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. He simply states, "Don’t be afraid to try something new — you never know what can come from it. This is the time."
Academic advisors are also keys to ensuring success during college years. Danielle Spratt, professor of English and director of the Office of Community Engagement, suggests reaching out to advisors early to explore ways to get involved.
For academic support, Rashawn Green, director of the Learning Resource Center, recommends students utilize resources as early as possible. It’s wise not to wait until they're facing challenges; the center offers invaluable writing assistance and tutoring across various subjects.
Purchasing textbooks can be another hurdle for students, but Yi Ding, the online instruction coordinator at the university library, has tips to ease the financial burden. She advises students to acquire syllabi as soon as possible to search for affordable textbook options, noting the cost-effective resources available through the library.
The essence of student life includes maintaining mental health and finding pockets of peace daily. Graduate student Iman Khan encourages everyone to establish routines comprising small self-care practices to help with every-day stressors.
Participative activities at the Student Recreation Center are also highly recommended. Ruby Durant mentions how beneficial it is to take advantage of exercise classes like pilates and Zumba, which come at no extra cost to students.
Students at CSUN even establish their own peaceful retreats by visiting the Oasis Wellness Center. Shivonne Peart, graduate student, shares it’s the perfect spot to meditate and recharge after long commutes, saying it’s been beneficial for keeping her mental health intact.
Katie Karroum, the Associated Students president, encourages trying many on-campus resources. She shares her personal experience of feeling directionless and how she found her calling through exploration, aided significantly by various college programs.
Joining clubs as soon as possible is another piece of advice offered. Ruby Durant champions the importance of making new friends and networking by attending organization fairs.
Even attending office hours can create invaluable opportunities for students. Olivia Herstein, a writer-editor, assures students to utilize this direct communication, where becoming familiar with their professors can open doors to mentorship and guidance.
Networking opportunities take place both on and off campus. Roberto Marcial, who studies Public Relations at CSUN, highlights the importance of connecting with peers and alumni during campus events.
Making new connections is fundamental, especially during the first couple of weeks. Jenny O’Mara Steinbeck suggests just saying hello to those around you could lead to lasting friendships.
Adjusting to college life requires awareness about one’s pace. Aubrey Richards reassures students it’s okay to take fewer classes if needed, emphasizing the importance of personal growth over rigid structures.
Lastly, the narrative is never too late for those contemplating returning to school. Shivonne Peart exemplifies this sentiment by sharing her experiences, encouraging any student to follow their own unique timelines.
