Week of Welcome happens every fall, but planning goes on for months before Freshman Move-In Day, the informal kickoff of a week of fun and festivities for new and returning Eagles.
Be forewarned: Big-box stores near campus may be inundated Saturday, Aug. 15 with families stocking up on toiletries, cleaning supplies (LOL) and room decorations for freshmen moving into their new homes in South Village. Helpful FGCU staffers and volunteers will be on campus to help carry furniture, hold doors open and provide directions for our fledgling Eagles.
Returning students move in the following day. Find a complete schedule and tips for moving in here.
Week of Welcome is a critical time, especially for new students who are leaving home for the first time and establishing their independence in college. Studies show that students who quickly get involved in social activities, student organizations and recreation are more likely to stay in school and have a more positive college experience.
Following is a schedule of Week of Welcome events organized by staff members and departments from all across campus. Look for updates on Facebook and Twitter.
Outdoor Movie Night
Saturday, August 15: 9-11pm, Palmetto Lawn
The comedy “Get Hard” will be screened, with snacks provided by Programming Board and Resident Housing Association
Casino Night
Sunday, August 16: 7pm – 10pm, Alico Arena Auxiliary Gym
Sponsored by Resident Housing Association
Pool Party
Monday, August 17: Noon-4pm, SoVi Pool
Come get to know the Programming Board and Student Government representatives
Comedy Night
Monday, August 1: 7-9pm Veterans’ Pavilion
Come LOL at the Programming Board’s first comedy show of the year on the Great Lawn
President’s Block Party
Tuesday, August 18: 3-5:30pm, Palmetto Lawn
Meet President Wilson G. Bradshaw on the SoVi Green for an afternoon of games, giveaways and food
Hall Meetings
Tuesday, August 18: 7pm, University Housing
Meet neighbors and staff members and learn about important policies, upcoming events and how to make the most out of your residential experience
Hypnotist Night
Tuesday, August 18: 8:30-10:30pm, Cohen Center Ballroom
Join Programming Board for a night of hypnosis, improv and music
Fire Safety Training
Wednesday, August 19: 9am, Osprey 2001
Environmental Health & Safety offers safety training by the San Carlos Fire Department
Outdoor Carnival
Wednesday, August 19: 11am-3pm, Library Lawn
The Office of Student Involvement brings students together on the first day of classes for live music, carnival-style food, and novelties such as airbrush towels, custom name art and a photo booth
Celebration of Culture Welcome Reception
Wednesday, August 19: 12:30-2pm, Cohen Center Ballroom
FREE lunch with your friends, classmates, faculty and staff as well as student performances, keynote presentations and giveaways
Dunk City’s Eagle Revolution
Wednesday, August 19: 7-9pm, Alico Arena
Meet coaches and student-athletes for all 15 of FGCU’s Division I teams and enjoy free food and prizes; registered Dirty Birds are invited to attend a VIP pre-event at 5:30pm.
ReXpo
Thursday, August 20: 10:30am-1:30pm, Library Lawn
The Recreation Expo features information on all Campus Recreation facilities and programs, including group fitness classes, intramural sports and adventure trips. Sign up for sports clubs, and learn about all things recreation.
Library Welcome Event
Thursday, August 20: 2-5pm, Library
Hunt for treasure and explore the Library through a scavenger hunt
Headphone Disco
Thursday, August 20: 8-11pm, Cohen Center Ballroom
Join the Programming Board and Resident Housing Association as they host the biggest “silent party” ever with two DJs and two styles of music playing at the same time
Breakfast B.A.S.H.
Friday, August 21: 10am-noon, Student Plaza
Learn how to succeed at FGCU during a free breakfast
Involvement Fair
Friday, August 21: noon-3pm, Cohen Center Ballroom
The best place for new Eagles to meet more than 200 student organizations as they showcase what they have to offer, including academic, cultural, service and Greek organizations
Meet the Greeks
Friday, August 21: 7-9pm, Cohen Center Ballroom
National Pan-Hellenic Council and Multicultural Greek Council offer information about Greek life and an after-party
Women’s Soccer vs. Ole Miss
Friday, August 21: 7pm, Soccer Complex
First FGCU Athletics event of the school year. Registered Dirty Birds can enjoy free food at a pregame tailgate starting at 5:30pm at the ROC. Wear blue to support the Eagles.
Beach Blast
Friday, August 21: 8-11pm, Waterfront
Programming Board and the Resident Housing Association present food, novelties and live music – plus the announcement of Eaglepalooza’s headliner
WOW Day of Service
Saturday, August 22: 8:30am-2pm, bus loop by Howard Hall
Office of Service-Learning helps students get connected while participating in a service activity
National Pan-Hellenic Council Yard Show
Sunday, August 23: 7-9pm, Library Lawn