Rice University will kick off its annual O-Week tradition Aug. 13, welcoming the diverse and talented Class of 2027 with open arms.
The most selective class in Rice’s history, this year’s incoming undergraduate class is 1,140 new Owls strong and represents fewer than 8% of the 31,056 people who applied to the university.
"O-Week is one of my favorite Rice traditions," President Reginald DesRoches said. "It represents new beginnings, possibilities, and hope and excitement for the future. I look forward to meeting our new Owls and giving them a warm welcome to Rice and to Houston."
The newest parliament of Owls is a diverse one, with 32% from underrepresented minority groups: 20% self-identify as Mexican American, Chicano, Hispanic or Latino and 12% identify as African American or Black. Another 13% are international students, hailing from over 47 countries. The class also includes students from 53 U.S. states and territories.
“While we are proud to have a community that is reflective of the diversity of Houston, the most diverse city in the country, we are equally proud of the environment of inclusion that we have created at Rice,” DesRoches said. “Our differences are not just tolerated, they are celebrated as a core strength of our institution.”
The incoming class will arrive at Rice bright and early Sunday, Aug. 13, for Move-In Day, kicking off an action-packed week of events to acclimate them to campus life.
After a ceremonial walk through Lovett Hall’s Sallyport and a matriculation address from President DesRoches, Rice’s newest students will participate in academic planning sessions and learn about diversity at Rice. The incoming Owls will also register for their fall semester courses, learn all about the many traditions at their residential colleges, enjoy the President’s Welcome Party, cheer on the university’s athletic teams at the Rice Rally, and much more.
O-Week will conclude Aug. 19 with Rice’s annual Welcome Back Day Festival as returning students return to campus to meet their new classmates and begin the 2023-24 school year. To learn more about O-Week, click here.