Welcome Days 2015: First days of the rest of your Huskie life
It’s the most wonderful time of year — those glorious, stress-free days when campus is open, but classes have not yet begun. NIU’s Welcome Days, Aug. 21-23 are jam-packed with events and activities to help new and returning students and their families get set for Huskie life.
“Welcome Days is the perfect opportunity for students to get to know the campus, meet other students, and have a great experience,” said Jill Zambito, director, Student Involvement and Leadership Development.
Friday: Joining the Huskie pack
The fun can’t begin until you move in. The doors fling open 9 a.m., Aug. 21 for The Residence Hall Opening — Welcome New Huskies and Families! NIU volunteer students, staff, faculty and alumni will be on hand until 3 p.m. to help you move into your new digs. Break for lunch from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. at any of the four dining centers. Your OneCard gets you and your family lunch.
Parents and families can head off to the Parent and Family Orientation Session at 3 p.m. at your residence hall. Listen for NIU’s Marching Band who will begin the Band Run at 4 p.m. at Neptune Hall, winding through campus picking up folks along the way for spirited Huskie Pride parade to the Convocation Center for the Huskie Family Welcome. NIU top dog, President Doug Baker will introduce you to what it means to be a Huskie.
After dinner either at your residence hall or on the town, Meet Your Floor Community commences 7:30 p.m. After that business wraps up, it’s time to kick back at the Residence Hall Association Block Party, 8:30-11:30, Lorusso Lagoon (north of Stevenson Towers). Like all good block parties, this will have entertainment, games and giveaways.
Saturday: Running with Huskie pack
Thinking about giving back to your new community? Bring your positive attitude to the Saturday of Service at the Holmes Student Center’s Capitol Room, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Aug. 22. Not only will you learn about volunteer opportunities, you’ll get to participate immediately by volunteering with the DeKalb Community Gardens. Keep the community spirit going at the Greek Life BBQ, 12 to 2 p.m. on the East Side of Huskie Stadium. Sorority and fraternity sisters and brothers will be on hand to answer your questions about Greek Life while you nosh on barbecue.
After all this free food it’s a great time to get moving. Rec Fest can help. From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center you can participate in obstacle courses, fitness classes and 3-point contests. Sweat, laugh, and win prizes all while learning about the programs and activities available through the Rec Center.
The big welcome continues through the night. Start NIU – A Military, Commuter and Non-Traditional Student Welcome serves up food and info about services and engagement opportunities for commuter, transfer and military students. It’s 5:30-7 p.m. on the North Lawn Adams Hall. RSVP here. Next up, get set for a mind-blowing experience with The Mentalist Team. From 8:30-10 p.m. at the HSC, Carl Sandburg Auditorium, professional mentalists will read your mind. Really. It’s entertaining and hilarious. Dash over to the Duke Ellington Ballroom, also at the HSC, for the Glow in the Dark Dance Party, 10 p.m. to 1 p.m. Dance the night away with glow sticks and all things neon. Last year over 2,000 dancers grooved under black lights. You won’t want to miss it.
Sunday: On the hunt for Huskie success
Maximize the last day before classes by getting a head start on a success strategy at the Huskie How-To: Teaching New Dogs Old Tricks, 1-2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23 at the HSC, Sandburg Auditorium. You’ll hear from those who know what it takes to be successful both inside and outside of the classroom. If part of that success for you means giving back, don’t miss the Involvement Fair, 2-4 p.m. HSC. This fair is a great way to learn about the nearly 300 student organizations on campus and meet organization leaders.
No Welcome Days weekend would be complete without more free food. The President’s Picnic, 4 – 7 p.m. at the East Lagoon provides food with a healthy dose of fun. President Doug Baker will be there to help launch the new academic school year. Head back to your residence hall by 7 p.m. for Engaging in Your Community. You’ll get to meet returning students and learn more about living with your roommate and life on your floor.
You’re welcome, Huskie.
Click Here To Submit A News Tip Or Story
8 Comments
Oh no! Our economy is being stimulated! The horror!
Grreeat! I live over there. Now my day is ruined.
Wasn’t too bad at Target today. They have extra people working to reduce long lines.
Oh NOOOO!!! I am out of bread & milk!!!!
Somehow I don’t think the post will slow the mass of shoppers tomorrow!! Our summer peace comes to an end!
Walmart may not be too happy about this postð
OMG run and hide people!! I am avoiding any department store on the sycamore road strip for about 3 weeks. It is going to be a mess!!
Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Rachel Rainey i knew move in had not happened. I curse u