As a continuation of Rice University’s Office of Student Success Initiatives’ O-Week, the Student Center will host Weeks of Welcome (WoW) Aug. 23-Sept. 6 at various locations on campus. The program will combine academic, educational, developmental and social programming for both undergraduate and graduate students to provide a solid foundation for new and returning students as they transition or return to Rice.
WoW is designed to help students connect with campus resources, explore student life, meet new people, build community and find their place at Rice. Throughout the series, departments and student organizations will host a variety of free events. Departments will engage students through fairs, open houses, workshops and socials, while student organizations will introduce themselves through info sessions, meet-and-greets, game nights, late-night events, festivals and mixers.
All events are compiled into a centralized calendar available via OwlNest. Highlights this year include:
- RPC’s Welcome Back Day: Ricechella: 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, RMC Grand Hall
- Get the Scoop on International Education: 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, Welcome Center
- Discover Research Fair: 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, RMC Grand Hall
- Student Center x Recreation Center: Arcade Rewind: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, Gibbs Recreation Center
- Student Activities Fair: 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, RMC Building and Central Quad
- CCD’s Fall Picnic: 11:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, Huff House
- HACER’s Fiesta en la Calle: 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, Ray Courtyard
- Explore DOU: Navigating Student Resources: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, RMC Grand Hall
- Study Abroad Fair: 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, RMC Grand Hall
“Weeks of Welcome is an exciting kickoff to the academic year,” said Andrea Herrera, assistant director of marketing and programs for the Rice Student Center. “For new students, it’s a first glimpse of what life at Rice can be. For returning students, it’s a chance to reconnect and jump back into their community. More than just a schedule of events, WoW is our way of saying, ‘You belong here, and we’re so glad you’re here.’ It’s designed to make the transition into a new year feel exciting, not overwhelming.”
One of the biggest goals of WoW is to help students start building relationships that will shape their college experience.
“Whether students are stepping out of their comfort zones or just showing up to see what’s out there, it’s all about connection and community,” Herrera said. “These moments show students that they’re part of a vibrant, inclusive community. By the end of the first two weeks of classes, our hope is that students feel welcome, confident, connected and ready to make the most of their time at Rice.”