Rice University will kick off its annual O-Week tradition Aug. 18, the orientation program that familiarizes incoming students with their new schools, residential colleges and classmates as it welcomes the Class of 2028.
One of the most selective classes in Rice’s history, this year’s incoming class is composed of 1,163 new Owls and represents an acceptance rate of 8% for the undergraduate class. Overall, Rice received 32,473 freshman applications.
The newest parliament of Owls is a diverse one, with 29% from historically excluded groups, not including international students. Another 14% are international students, hailing from 42 countries. The class also includes students from 46 U.S. states, including Washington D.C. and two territories.
“As we begin a new academic year, I am filled with excitement and optimism for what lies ahead. This is a momentous time to be at Rice University,” said Rice President Reginald DesRoches. “We are welcoming one of the largest and most diverse classes of new students in our history. These talented individuals will contribute to the rich tapestry of ideas and experiences that make Rice a dynamic and innovative place to learn and grow.”
The incoming class will arrive on campus Sunday, Aug. 18, for Move-In Day, kicking off an action-packed week of events to acclimate them to campus life. Move-in day will begin around 7 a.m. when upperclassmen greet the new arrivals and help them move into their residential college rooms.
After saying goodbye to their parents as they launch their college journeys, the new students will gather for matriculation at 7:30 p.m. at Tudor Fieldhouse, where members of Rice’s leadership will welcome them to their next four years on campus. The freshmen will then make the ceremonial march through the Sallyport, and tradition holds that students should not pass through the Sallyport again until they graduate.
Throughout the week, 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. 24 with Rice’s annual Welcome Back Day Festival as returning students repopulate campus to meet their new classmates and begin the 2024-25 academic year.
Students are encouraged to document their O-Week experience online by including #RiceOWeek2024 on their social media posts.
To learn more about O-Week and see the full schedule, click here.
*Enrollment statistics shared in the story are as of Aug. 8., and may shift slightly.
