Welcome WEEK 2025
August 21-24
Welcome Week includes events and activities that will help you get connected to your campus and classmates, feel supported as you navigate college, and prepare for successful years at West Chester University!
Click on the Event Titles to Register for Events
Thursday, August 21
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
4:30-6:30PM
Please see description for hall times |
Dinner Meal times are determined by residence hall. Students must use their meal swipe and attend with their building 4:30PM:
6:30PM:
|
Commons Dining Hall |
|
6PM |
Resident Floor Meetings [MANDATORY for all On Campus Residents] Join your Resident Assistants and peers on your residence hall floor for a mandatory meeting.
|
Residence Halls |
|
8PM-11PM |
If WCU is your home away from home, then consider Sykes Student Union the living room!
Come by and stay awhile to enjoy snacks, activities, crafts, and more. There will
be tons of options for DIY dorm decor, games (board and video!), a photo printing
station, and a mini market with local vendors selling items to help make your space
your own. Come exactly as you are to explore YOUR student union and meet new people
in a laid-back, chill environment.
|
Sykes Student Union |
|
8PM-11PM |
The Department of Campus Recreation welcomes the Class of 2029 with a night of fun-filled programs, activities, and giveaways. At this event, you’ll be able to learn about our facilities, fitness programs, outdoor adventure pursuits, intramurals, and sport clubs offered both on and off campus. Enjoy Snacks and giveaways along with a Plank and Pushup Contest, Hot Shot Shooting Contest, Putting Contest, fun at the Climbing wall, and a live DJ! Fitness Classes Offered During the Event: Pilates with Gabby 8:15pm, Studio B Cycle w/Erin 8:30pm, Studio C BodyPump with Brynn 9:10pm, Studio B
|
Student Recreation Center |
|
|
Please see "Move-In Meetup Events" tab to view more events taking place on this day |
Non ADA Accessible 
Activity may involve visual stimulation, such as use of lights, colors, or flashing
lights. 
Activity may be physical in nature, involving running, jumping, dancing or other
physical movement. 
Activity aims to be calming to basic senses. 
Activity may involve large amounts of social engagement in a group setting. There
will likely be a large crowd present. 
Activity may involve auditory stimulation, such as loud music, sounds, or other noise.
Activity is a required program.
Activity is for transfer students.
Friday, August 22
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9AM-10AM |
Unleash your inner artist at our "Design Your Own Canvas Painting" event! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned painter, join us for a fun and relaxed morning of creativity. You must sign up in advance for this event and it is limited to 30 people.
|
Center for Contemplative Studies |
| 10AM-11AM |
Unleash your inner artist at our "Design Your Own Canvas Painting" event! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned painter, join us for a fun and relaxed morning of creativity. You must sign up in advance for this event and it is limited to 30 people.
|
Center for Contemplative Studies |
| 9AM-11AM |
Donut Forget First Aid with Student Health Services Come visit Student Health Services in Commonwealth Hall for an open house! Grab some health and safety supplies and a donut while you are there. |
Student Health Center Commonwealth Hall (bottom floor facing the Lawrence Center) |
| 1PM-2PM |
This presentation consists of a live 25-minute overview of the current night sky followed by an educational and entertaining full dome movie, roughly 30 minutes in length. This event is limited to 60 people, please register in advance through Ramconnect.
|
Mather Planetarium |
| 2PM-3PM |
Spend an hour outdoors in West Chester University’s beloved Gordon Natural Area, 126 acres of protected forest right here on our south campus! Enjoy a guided tour from GNA Steward Dr. Nur Ritter, learning more about the GNA, its flora and fauna, and the miles of recreational trails as you go.
|
Gordon Natural Area (R Lot) |
| 2PM-4PM |
Are you a student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not complete a four-year college
degree? That means you're a first generation student!
|
Chickie's & Pete's |
|
4:30-6:30PM
Please see description for hall times
|
Dinner Meal times are determined by residence hall and floor. Students must use their meal swipe and attend with their floormates. 4:30PM:
6:30PM:
|
Commons Dining Hall |
| 6PM |
Floor Meetings [MANDATORY for all On Campus Residents] Join your resident assistants and peers on your residence hall floor for a mandatory meeting
|
Residence Halls |
| 8PM-10PM |
This event is Mandatory for first-year residential students. Join us for an unforgettable evening as we officially welcome our newest Golden Rams to the WCU family! Ram Rally Under the Lights is a high-energy celebration featuring music, fireworks, and a powerful performance by the incomparable Golden Rams Marching Band. This spirited community event is open to all- new students, returning Rams, WCU faculty and staff, and our local community members. Come feel the excitement and energy of the Ram Fam as we light up the night and kick off the year in true Golden Ram style! Don't miss this WCU tradition! Shuttles will be departing Wayne Hall loop continuously starting at 7:20 pm
|
Farrell Stadium
|
| 9:30PM-11:30PM |
After Ram Rally Under the Lights, head to the SECC to unwind and enjoy late-night food with friends. Think: Coffee house vibes! There will be live music, games, crafts, and plenty of space to kick back and relax before the night ends.
|
The Learning Stairs at The Science Engineering Center and Commons |
|
Please see "Move-In Meetup Events" tab to view more events taking place on this day |
Non ADA Accessible Activity may involve visual stimulation, such as use of lights, colors, or flashing
lights. Activity may be physical in nature, involving running, jumping, dancing or other
physical movement. Activity aims to be calming to basic senses. Activity may involve large amounts of social engagement in a group setting. There
will likely be a large crowd present. Activity may involve auditory stimulation, such as loud music, sounds, or other noise.
Activity is a required program. Activity is for transfer students.
Saturday, August 23
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 8:45AM |
Managing Your Money and Title IX Education This event is MANDATORY for first-year residential students from the following Residence Halls: Allegheny and Brandywine An audience interactive program that addresses issues surrounding dating, sex, and sexual violence on college campuses through relatable language and scenarios -presented by the consent education expert Stacey Rose! There will be no pre-registration for this event. You will only be able to register and check-in AT THE EVENT.
|
Asplundh Concert Hall |
| 10:15AM |
Managing Your Money and Title IX Education This event is MANDATORY for first-year residential students from the following Residence Halls: Goshen and Tyson An audience interactive program that addresses issues surrounding dating, sex, and sexual violence on college campuses through relatable language and scenarios -presented by the consent education expert Stacey Rose! There will be no pre-registration for this event. You will only be able to register and check-in AT THE EVENT.
|
Asplundh Concert Hall |
| 11:45AM |
Managing Your Money and Title IX Education This event is MANDATORY for first-year residential students from the following Residence Halls: Commonwealth, Killinger, Schmidt, and South Campus Apartments An audience interactive program that addresses issues surrounding dating, sex, and sexual violence on college campuses through relatable language and scenarios -presented by the consent education expert Stacey Rose! There will be no pre-registration for this event. You will only be able to register and check-in AT THE EVENT.
|
Asplundh Concert Hall |
| 10AM-1PM |
Catch a shuttle from Asplundh Concert Hall, commonly referred to as the “Castle Building”, and meet us in the Borough of West Chester to experience all our rich community has to offer! This event will include a Coffee Crawl, miniature golf, succulent planting, community engagement, and freebies at our community Grower’s Market!
|
West Chester Borough |
| 12PM-2PM |
West Chester University First Responders Meet and Greet Welcome, Golden Rams! As you embark on your first year, join us at Dinniman Plaza, right in front of the SECC building, for a unique opportunity to meet and chat with West Chester's local Fire, EMS, and Police services. This is your chance to learn about the vital work they do, ask any questions you may have, or simply get to know the dedicated individuals who serve our campus and surrounding area. Come connect in a friendly, informal environment! |
Dinniman Plaza (in front of The Commons Dining Hall) |
| 1:30PM-3PM |
Join the Office of Sustainability and University Libraries for a free plant potting
event! Practice some basics of caring for houseplants and paint a terracotta pot,
all while learning more about sustainability on campus.
|
Sykes Student Union Ballroom A |
| 2PM-4PM |
Welcome Week just got sweeter! Get a glimpse of the world of student engagement at Org Island, a sneak peek into the student organization experience. Interact with student organizations while enjoying some ice cream from Hangry Bear Creamery (limited to the first 300 attendees). Your golden match is waiting - don't miss it!
|
Residential Quad Rain Location: Sykes Student Union Ballrooms B and C, and the TV Lounge |
| 2PM-4PM |
Calling all transfer students! Get ready to 'taco' bout it. Enjoy some delicious walking tacos while connecting with other transfer students! You might even get a new piece of WCU gear for attending!
|
Sykes Student Union 10A |
| 2PM-3PM |
Transitioning from the Chrome Book: How to Use your Computer at WCU Starting college is exciting, but navigating new technology can feel overwhelming. "Tech Savvy Start" is a hands-on workshop designed to help WCU students master the essential technology skills they need for success. With separate sessions for PC and Mac users, this session covers accessing WCU’s learning management system, using WCU email, attaching and uploading documents, organizing files, and exploring the university's tech resources. This workshop empowers students to confidently handle their technology needs, ensuring they can focus on achieving their academic goals. We recommend that you stay the full duration of this event. Please bring your laptop to this session. PC users can head to Anderson Hall room 213 and Mac (Apple) users can go next door to room 212
|
Anderson Hall second floor rooms 213 (PC) and 212 (Mac) |
| 2:30PM-4PM |
Stop by Sykes to hang out with some cuddly therapy dogs and learn more about our campus Counseling Center.
|
Sykes Student Union First Floor Lobby and TV Lounge |
| 7PM-9PM |
Golden Hour with Student Affairs A sunset social for First Year students! First 100 attendees get a WCU picnic blanket! Enjoy the Fizzy Mama Soda bar, a live DJ, salty and sweet snacks, and pop up student performances throughout the event.
|
Academic Quad |
| 9PM-12AM |
New year, new GLOW! The party is in the Res Quad complete with glow-in-the-dark games, novelties, a DJ, giveaways, and more. You won't want to miss this all-out celebration of a new school year at WCU. Rams (glow) UP!
|
Residential Quad Rain location: Sykes Student Union Ballrooms |
|
Please see "Move-In Meetup Events" tab to view more events taking place on this day |
|
Non ADA Accessible Activity may involve visual stimulation, such as use of lights, colors, or flashing
lights. Activity may be physical in nature, involving running, jumping, dancing or other
physical movement. Activity aims to be calming to basic senses. Activity may involve large amounts of social engagement in a group setting. There
will likely be a large crowd present. Activity may involve auditory stimulation, such as loud music, sounds, or other noise.
Activity is a required program. Activity is for transfer students.
Sunday, August 24
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9AM-12PM |
Campus may seem large (it’s 403 acres after all!), but you've got this! Orientation Leaders, along with other student leaders, are here to walk you around campus buildings to check out where your classes will be held. Bring your class schedule, stop at the Cafe Gourmino coffee truck in front of Ehinger Gym, and get searching! Did I mention free coffee?!
|
Ehinger Lawn and in Academic Buildings |
| 9AM-12PM |
Rams in Community Meeting This interactive session is designed to help students navigate the campus and residential experience. The focus is on issues that may arise when sharing a living/learning community with others. Topics covered include alcohol and drugs, managing and resolving conflicts, and other expectations of the University community. |
Times and Locations Distributed by your Resident Assistant |
| 1:45PM |
This event is mandatory for first-year students. Join us for West Chester University's inaugural Convocation. Get ready to hear from President Bernotsky as well as speeches from student leaders, witness performances from our talented student groups, and remember to say hi to Rammy when you see him! Asplundh Concert Hall will be a Sensory and Overflow Space for this event.
|
Hollinger Field House- Enter through Ehinger Gym |
| 2:45PM |
This event in mandatory for first-year students. Welcome Class of 2029! Before you dive into your first college course, seize this chance to make your mark on campus. Right after Convocation, head to the Academic Quad for a memorable welcome event where you will snap a photo with your entire class spelling out 2 0 2 9, enjoy delicious water ice from the Kona Ice truck, and receive your exclusive class t-shirt. Join us for a fun-filled gathering and kick off your college journey with excitement and camaraderie!
|
Academic Quad |
| 7PM-10PM |
The Dowdy Multicultural Center Presents: Rams Rollout: Glow Skate Party Get ready to roll into a night of culture, color, and community at our Rams Rollout: Glow Skate Party! 🛼🎉✨ Join us for an unforgettable evening where the lights are low, the vibes are high, and the fun takes center stage. Whether you’re skating to your favorite beats, showing off your best neon fit, or just vibing with friends, this is your chance to connect with others and celebrate!
All are welcome to roll through this joyful space dedicated to celebrating the diversity, identity, and unity of multicultural students at WCU.
Glow sticks, music, snacks, skates, and good vibes provided!
|
Sykes Student Union Ballrooms |
| 5PM-8PM |
Rams in Community Meeting This interactive session is designed to help students navigate the campus and residential experience. The focus is on issues that may arise when sharing a living/learning community with others. Topics covered include alcohol and drugs, managing and resolving conflicts, and other expectations of the University. community |
Times and Locations Distributed by your Resident Assistant |
|
Please see "Move-In Meetup Events" tab to view more events taking place on this day |
Non ADA Accessible Activity may involve visual stimulation, such as use of lights, colors, or flashing
lights. Activity may be physical in nature, involving running, jumping, dancing or other
physical movement. Activity aims to be calming to basic senses. Activity may involve large amounts of social engagement in a group setting. There
will likely be a large crowd present. Activity may involve auditory stimulation, such as loud music, sounds, or other noise.
Activity is a required program. Activity is for transfer students.
Other Events
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuesday, 8/26 from 5PM - 8PM |
Join us to welcome newcomers and say welcome back to old friends as we embark on a new academic year together. We look forward to hosting LGBTQ+ students and allies alike as we help set the tone for the year and introduce members of our community, particularly new students, to our many campus partners, student orgs, and support resources. Come join us for some food, fun, and community!
|
Sykes Student Union Ballrooms |
| Monday, 9/8 from 10AM - 1PM |
Student Success Fair Stop by to learn about resources designed to support your success at WCU! Ideal for new First-Year and Transfer Students, but all students are welcome for a reminder of all WCU has to offer to support your academic goals. Play our game to win Kona Ice!
|
Academic Quad |
Non ADA Accessible Activity may involve visual stimulation, such as use of lights, colors, or flashing
lights. Activity may be physical in nature, involving running, jumping, dancing or other
physical movement. Activity aims to be calming to basic senses. Activity may involve large amounts of social engagement in a group setting. There
will likely be a large crowd present. Activity may involve auditory stimulation, such as loud music, sounds, or other noise.
Activity is a required program. Activity is for transfer students.
Move-In Meetup Events
Move-in Meet Ups: Find Your People, Your Place, Your Pace
Starting college can feel like a lot—but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Move-in Meet Ups are small, chill gatherings designed to help you meet other first-year students who share your interests. Whether you’re into movement (like yoga or lawn games), art (like painting or crafts), nature (like hiking or plant care), service (like volunteering), or just want to find a sense of belonging—we’ve got a space for you.
No pressure, no huge-event energy—just a chance to connect, chat, and maybe discover something new. Come as you are, and leave with a few new friends.
Move-in Meet Ups are based on five categories, each designed to support well-being through meaningful connection and activity:
Movement 
It’s not about being an athlete—it’s about getting your body moving in ways that feel good. Whether it’s dancing, walking, yoga, or playing a casual game, movement helps boost your mood, reduce stress, and connect you with others doing the same.
Art 
Creative expression is powerful tool for connecting to yourself and others. Painting, music, crafts, writing—whatever your outlet, making something with your hands or imagination can help you feel more grounded and inspired.
Nature 
Spending time outdoors—even just a short walk or sitting under a tree—can calm your mind and lift your spirits. Nature-based activities like gardening, hiking, or birdwatching help you recharge and feel part of something bigger.
Service 
Helping others helps you, too. Volunteering or doing something kind for someone else can give you a sense of purpose and connection. It’s a great way to meet people and make a positive impact in your community, with your community.
Belonging 
This is all about finding your people. Whether it’s through shared interests, identity, or values, belonging means feeling seen, heard, and supported. Belonging and connection are what help us thrive.
Heads Up!
Move-in Meet Ups are designed to be small and relaxed, which means space is limited.
Most events will require pre-registration, and they may fill up quickly—so if something catches your eye, don’t wait too long
to sign up!
Looking at the Welcome Week calendar?
Keep an eye out for these symbols — they mark Move-in Meet Ups based on shared interests like art, movement, nature,
service, and belonging. These events are small and cozy, so be sure to register early
before spots fill up!
Thursday, August 21st
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2:00pm-5:00 pm |
Kick off your college journey with a night of fun, laughter, and friendly competition! Whether you're into classic family favorites or strategy games, we've got something for everyone. Come meet new friends, discover new games, and enjoy a relaxed evening of play. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and game face. If you have games you love from home, feel free to bring those too!
|
Sykes Center for Student Engagement |
| 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
Join Student Health Services and Wellness Promotion for lawn games and relaxing outdoor fun. Come out to play lawn games, blow bubbles, and enjoy some treats!
|
Outside of Commonwealth Hall |
| 8:15PM - 9PM |
Late Night Yoga x Pilates with Gabby Participate in this Yoga x Pilates fitness class ran by student instructor, Gabby! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues. This fitness class is featured as a part of the Night at the Rec event.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio B |
| 8:30PM - 9:15PM |
Participate in this Cycle fitness class ran by student instructor, Erin! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues. This fitness class is featured as a part of the Night at the Rec event.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio C |
| TBD |
Volleyball Game Students can engage in a friendly game of volleyball in the sand! This meet-up is featured as a part of the Night at the Rec event. |
Outdoor Court between the Recreation Center and Tyson Hall |
| 9:10PM - 9:40PM |
Late Night BodyPump with Brynn Participate in this BodyPump fitness class ran by student instructor, Brynn! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues. This fitness class is featured as a part of the Night at the Rec event.
|
Student Recreation Center Studio B |
Friday, August 22nd
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:30AM - 12PM |
Join the Center for Women & Gender Equity for junk journaling and Dia Doce cupcakes on August 22nd. Document your first few days on campus, collage your goals for the semester, or use it as a journal to keep track of assignments; The possibilities are endless! Our space in Lawrence Center room #214 is next to SECC, you can easily venture to the dining hall after making your very own junk journal.
|
Center for Women and Gender Equity -Lawrence 214 |
| 11AM - 12PM |
Spoons Party: A Fun, Competitive Card Game Bring your sharp mind and quick hands to a game that is bound to make you smile, laugh and leave with memories. Never played before? No worries. We've got you covered.
|
Business and Public Management Center room 102 |
| 1:00PM - 2:00PM |
Real Conversations, Real Connections Tired of surface-level chats and small talk? Ready to meet people who want to go deeper? Join us for an hour of meaningful conversation, laughter, and connection—no small talk allowed. Whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, this event is designed to help you break the ice in a way that actually matters. Through guided prompts and fun conversation starters, you'll meet fellow students who are just as curious, thoughtful, and open-minded as you are. What to expect: 💬 Thought-provoking questions (no “What’s your major?” here!) Come solo or bring a friend—just come ready to talk about the stuff that really matters.
|
Sykes Student Union 10A |
| 2PM - 3PM |
The Career Development Center is seeking volunteers for assist with our free Career
Closet Resource. If you are: Opportunities to volunteer will happen throughout the first 6 weeks of the semester. Volunteers will: Students have access to the Career Closet located in the Career Development Center (Lawrence 225). We have a wide variety of styles and sizes for all gender expressions. You can try on items to ensure a good fit. Anything you find is yours to keep for FREE. Items are best suited for interviews, internships, award ceremonies, or any other needs. All items have been generously donated by faculty, staff, alumni and the Greater West Chester University Community. More information is available on our website here: https://www.wcupa.edu/_services/careerDevelopment/resourcesEvents/career-closet.aspx During the Spring and Fall semesters - the closet is open Monday through Friday between 8:30am and 4pm, no appointment needed. During any university breaks and during winter/summer sessions the office is remote
various days, please call ahead before stopping by our space (610-436-2501).
|
Lawrence Hall room 225 |
| 2:00PM - 4:00PM |
Add some personality to your backpack and kick off the semester in style! Join us for a creative drop-in session where you can design your own bag charms, keychains, and custom button to deck out your book bag. We’ll provide all the supplies & you bring the creativity! Whether you're going for cute, edgy, or full-on school spirit, this is your chance to craft something totally you.
|
Center for Student Involvement |
| 2:15PM - 3:15PM |
Participate in this Barre fitness class ran by student instructor, Liv! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio B |
| 2:30PM - 2:15PM |
Participate in this Cycle fitness class ran by student instructor, Marnie! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio C |
| 3:00PM - 4:30PM |
Needing some additional decor to make your dorm feel like home? Join us on August 22nd to design your own felt pennant and enjoy a Dia Doce cupcake while you craft! The Pennant Party event will take place in Lawrence Center while supplies last. Our space is located in room #214, directly above Chickie's & Pete's and Einstein's Bagels! You can find us by taking the stairs or the elevator located behind the staircase.
|
Center for Women and Gender Equity -Lawrence 214 |
| 3:30PM - 4:30PM |
Join us at Sykes Student Union to make some old-fashioned friendship bracelets and bracelets with beads to help kick-start the school year! Supplies will be provided. Hope to see you there
|
Sykes Student Union |
| 3:45PM - 4:45PM |
Participate in this Yoga and Pilates fitness class ran by student instructor, Gabby! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio B |
Saturday, August 23rd
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 9:15AM - 10:15PM |
Participate in this Barre fitness class ran by student instructor, Liv! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio B |
| 12:00PM - 1:00PM |
Bring your lunch and join us for a relaxing picnic in the park with icebreakers and community connection. Local service group “Friends of Everhart Park” will share how students can get involved.
|
Everhart Park |
| 3:00PM - 5:00PM |
Love crafting and reading? Bring your own book to Sykes Union to bedazzle and meet fellow readers/crafters! We will provide all materials, you just bring your favorite book!
|
Sykes Student Union Ballroom A |
Sunday, August 24th
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1:00-1:45 |
Commuters before Convocation This event will be dedicated to our commuter students in partnership with the Office of Student Experience. Get together with fellow commuters to prep for convocation, more information to come!
|
Coming Soon! |
| 4PM |
Participate in this Barre fitness class ran by student instructor, Gabby! Space is limited, sign up on IM Leagues.
|
Student Recreation Center: Studio B |
| 1PM - 2PM |
Stop by to take a quick recharge break during a busy weekend! Enjoy foot and neck massagers, take a coloring break, or have a snack.
|
Student Health Conference Room, Commonwealth Hall |
Post Welcome Week Move-In Meet-Ups
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
Wednesday, August 27th 3PM - 4PM |
Get to know your new fave spot on campus, The Sykes Union! Decorate a rock & magnet to display in your dorm room and meet some new folks at WCU :)
|
Sykes Student Union 10A |
|
Multiple dates |
Career Closet Volunteer at our campus career closet! All students have access to this closet to obtain clothes for interviews, internships, award ceremonies, and other occasions where professional attire is required. See the Twardowski Career Development Center website for more information. Volunteer opportunities take place during the follow times
Volunteers will: Register on Ramconnect!
|
Lawrence Hall room 225 |
