First-Year Experience Events

Sunday, August 30

8:30 a.m. | Davis & Henley College of Nursing Academic Session | Chapel of the Holy Spirit

Welcome to the Davis & Henley College of Nursing (DHCON) community. This informative session will help first-year students begin their journey with confidence. Students will meet the nursing, science, and math course coordinators; learn about academic progression and expectations; and explore valuable course resources available throughout the program. Following this overview, students will meet their peer mentor for small group discussions and activities with academic advisers and faculty mentors.

Sponsored by: Davis & Henley College of Nursing

9 a.m. | Welch College of Business & Technology Academic Session | West Campus

Meet at the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts for shuttle pick up to West Campus starting at 9 a.m. Students can check their SHU email for information about when their major/program is scheduled to start. From there, get a tour of the college and meet with your Welch mentor, peers, faculty, and staff to better understand expectations, courses, available resources, and more! Shuttles will begin bringing students back to the Park Avenue Campus at 11:30 a.m., with the last shuttle departing West Campus at 12:15 p.m.

Sponsored by: Jack Welch College of Business & Technology

9 a.m. | College of Arts & Sciences Academic Session | Edgerton Center

This interactive session will offer first-year students in the College of Arts & Sciences a head start on their Sacred Heart University college careers. First-year students will meet with first-year academic advisers, receive pointers on preparing for the academic realities of college, and have an opportunity to have their questions answered and concerns addressed.

Sponsored by: College of Arts & Sciences

10:30 a.m. | College of Health Professions Academic Session | Chapel of the Holy Spirit

Welcome to the College of Health Professions (CHP). In this mandatory session, you'll learn essential tips for success in the CHP, meet with your adviser, and get a chance to win exciting prizes. You can also ask questions and get the information you need to start your journey!

Sponsored by: College of Health Professions

10:30 a.m. | Farrington College of Education & Human Development Academic Session | Schine Auditorium

This interactive session will give students everything they need to know about the Farrington College of Education & Human Development. Students will meet faculty and other students, interact with their peers, and have their questions answered.

Sponsored by: Farrington College of Education & Human Development

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Classroom Crawl | Pioneer Pavilion

Here's your opportunity to find your classrooms before your first day of class. Connect with Orientation Leaders who leave every 10 minutes. Remember to bring your schedule!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

1 - 2 p.m. | Intro to First-Year Experience | Classrooms (Park Avenue Campus)

All students in FYE 099 A must attend their first class of FYE. During this time, your FYE instructor and FYE assistant will provide an overview on how this course will help you to make a successful transition into SHU.

Sponsored by: First-Year Experience

2 - 3:15 p.m. | Intro to First-Year Experience | Classrooms (Park Avenue Campus)

All students in FYE 099 B must attend their first class of FYE. During this time, your FYE instructor and FYE assistant will provide an overview on how this course will help you to make a successful transition into SHU.

Sponsored by: First-Year Experience

3:30 - 4:30 p.m. | Intro to First-Year Experience | Classrooms (Park Avenue Campus)

All students in FYE 099 C must attend their first class of FYE. During this time, your FYE instructor and FYE assistant will provide an overview on how this course will help you to make a successful transition into SHU.

Sponsored by: First-Year Experience

7 - 10 p.m. | Pavilion Jam | Pioneer Pavilion

Enjoy the last night of Welcome Weekend before kicking off your first day of classes. Take in live music, kick back, play some lawn games, or get a caricature done! Don't forget to grab a snack before you go.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Monday, August 31

4 - 5:45 p.m. | 4 Heart Harmony Open Rehearsal | Choir Room (John & Sabina Petillo Center for the Performing Arts)

Join directors Christopher Grundy, Bryan Chuan, and the SHU Choral Program to observe a rehearsal with our advanced Soprano/Alto/Tenor/Bass ensemble.

Sponsored by: Choral Program

Tuesday, September 1

2 - 3:15 p.m. | Concert Choir Open Rehearsal | Choir Room

Join director Christopher Grundy and the SHU Choral Program to observe a rehearsal with our Soprano/Alto ensemble.

Sponsored by: Choral Program

2:15 - 3:45 p.m. | Move to Heal: More Than Exercise | Pioneer Pavilion, Cabana 2

Move to Heal: More Than Exercise is an interactive wellness outreach event designed to introduce students to the unique mission of Move to Heal, a program that combines movement, mental health support, and meaningful connection in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Through conversation, activities, and opportunities to engage with facilitators and peers, students will learn how Move to Heal promotes emotional well-being, stress reduction, community building, and self-care beyond traditional fitness spaces. This event aims to help students discover supportive ways to care for both minds and bodies as they transition into the fall 2026 semester.

Sponsored by: Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center

Wednesday, September 2

2 p.m. | New Student Convocation | William Pitt Athletic & Convocation Center

New Student Convocation is our traditional fall event that is hosted by the provost office. It brings together faculty and staff to officially welcome all new students into the SHU community. This event marks the only time prior to commencement that the entire Class of 2030 will gather as one before they embark on their Pioneer Journey.

Sponsored by: Office of the Provost

2 - 3:30 p.m. | Liturgical Choir Open Rehearsal | Choir Room (John & Sabina Petillo Center for the Performing Arts)

Join director Matt Cimino and the SHU Choral Program to observe a rehearsal with our Soprano/Alto/Tenor/Bass ensemble, as the group prepares to sing at the 11 a.m. Mass in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit each Sunday on campus!

Sponsored by: Choral Program

4 - 5 p.m. | Grillin' with the Greeks | Pioneer Pavilion Upper Quad

Come join First-Year Programs for positive affirmation rock painting before walking over to Grillin' with the Greeks.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

4 - 6:30 p.m. | Treat Your Transfer | Hearth Room

Calling all transfer students! Come gather and enjoy a sweet treat and a chance to connect with new students!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Friday, September 4

6 - 8 p.m. | Catch Us Outside | Pioneer Pavilion

Come out and come down to meet our Black Student Union on campus and join us for a cookout style event with food, music, games, and a chance to make new friends!

Sponsored by: Black Student Union

Tuesday, September 8

12:30 - 1:30 p.m. | Chalk Talk | Pioneer Pavilion Cabanas

Create messages of hope with the Counseling Center! Help spread messages of positivity using chalk to increase suicide prevention awareness throughout campus.

Sponsored by: Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center

1 - 3 p.m. | Transform your Planner | Linda's Fireplace

Calling all transfer students! Come to Linda's Fireplace at McMahon Commons to bedazzle school supplies, and make a new friend with First-Year Programs!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

2 - 4 p.m. | Volunteer & Community-Based Work-Study Fair | Edgerton Atrium

Join us for the Volunteer & Community-Based Work-Study Fair! This is a great opportunity for students to connect face-to-face with local nonprofit organizations and community partners. Students can explore volunteer opportunities, learn about community-based work-study positions, discover organizations that align with their interests and career goals, gain insight into the missions and impact of local nonprofits, and build professional connections within the community. Don't miss this chance to get involved, make a difference, and gain valuable experience while supporting meaningful causes.

Sponsored by: Community Engagement

7 - 9 p.m. | Off Campus Theme Night | Pioneer Pavilion

Grab your friends and join us for an Off Campus-themed night filled with activities inspired by the hit book series, and TV show. Whether you're Team Garrett, Team Logan, Team Dean, or Team Tucker, this is a chance to step into the world of Briar University for the night!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Wednesday, September 9

6 p.m. | Class of 2030 Cookie Connect | Linda's Fireplace

Looking to meet new people and make meaningful connections? Join us for Cookie Connect, a fun and welcoming event designed for students who are new to the SHU community. Decorate delicious cookies while getting to know your fellow Pioneers through guided conversation prompts about your hometown, major, interests, and more. Whether you're looking to make friends, find people with similar experiences, or simply enjoy a sweet treat, Cookie Connect is the perfect place to start building your SHU network. Come for the cookies, stay for the conversations, and leave with new connections!

Sponsored by: Student Involvement & First-Year Programs

7:30 - 9 p.m. | S'mores & Songs | Pioneer Pavilion

S'mores & Songs is a fun, laid-back outdoor event where students can connect through music. Hosted by the SHU Choral Program, the evening features s'mores, snacks and live karaoke—so grab a treat, sing along or simply relax and enjoy the music!

Sponsored by: Choral Program

Thursday, September 10

1 - 4 p.m. | 2nd Annual SafetyFest | Pioneer Pavilion

Asking for help in a crisis can be overwhelming, but thankfully we're bringing the help to you! Come visit nearly a dozen different booths from campus partners who prioritize your safety on campus each and every day. This event will feature interactive games, prizes, and delicious snacks.

Sponsored by: Offices of Title IX and Community Standards

2 - 4 p.m. | Wellness Fest | Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center

Please join us for Wellness Fest! Enjoy free ice cream, therapy dogs, engage in a community art piece, learn campus resources and meet your University mental health counselors!

Sponsored by: Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center

5 - 8 p.m. | Rodeo Night | Chapel Quad

Interested in a night of some country-themed fun? Come join First-Year Programs for our Rodeo Night! Ride a mechanical bull, decorate your very own cowboy hat, or snack on some of our country themed food!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Friday, September 11

6 - 6:45 p.m. | President's Gala | Chapel Quad

Come join First-Year Programs in an opportunity to get together before our annual President's Gala at 6 p.m. on Chapel Quad! Stop by for pictures with our photo booth, refreshments, and speed friending!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Wednesday, September 16

9 - 10 p.m. | Bingo | Edgerton Atrium

Come join First-Year Programs for an opportunity to meet new people and walk over to bingo together!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Thursday, September 17

6 - 8 p.m. | Paint Your State | Pioneer Pavilion

Are you interested in painting? Come meet new people, express your creativity, and enjoy a laid back atmosphere! Come join the First-Year Program for an amazing paint night.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Friday, September 18

Noon | SHU Are Not Alone | Student Accessibility Lounge

Unplug and connect! This interactive, connection-centered "speed meeting" event is designed to help first-year students build meaningful connections with both peers and upperclassmen without relying on their devices. Through guided conversations, students will engage in a low-pressure environment where Delta Alpha Pi members serve as facilitators for welcoming participants, supporting conversation, and offering connection, insight, and informal mentorship to help ease the transition to campus life.

Sponsored by: Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society

Saturday, September 19

Noon - 4 p.m. | Pickle Fest | Pioneer Pavilion

Get ready for Pickle Fest! Join First-Year Programs for a fun pickle-themed event featuring a variety of vendors, pickle inspired food, and a competitive pickleball tournament that starts at 1 p.m.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Monday, September 21

10 a.m. | Make Your Own Floral Arrangements | Pioneer Pavilion

Come and create your very own bouquet using a variety of fresh flowers. Take home your finished bouquet and connect with other new students along the way! Sponsored by First-Year Programs.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

2 - 4 p.m. | Lawn Games & Lemonade | Pioneer Village Quad

Join us to play lawn games, make your own mocktail, and decorate a reusable lidded cup with fellow residents!

Sponsored by: Residential Life

Tuesday, September 22

6 - 8 p.m. | Bob Ross Painting Night | Linda's Fireplace

Unwind and get creative at our Bob Ross-inspired painting night! Follow along to create your own happy little masterpiece while enjoying a selection of refreshing, handcrafted mocktails. No experience needed, just bring your creativity and get ready for a relaxing, fun-filled evening!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Thursday, September 24

Noon - 3 p.m. | Stepping into the Semester | Pioneer Pavilion

Looking for a fun way to connect with a new club on campus? Join For Every Step for a fun, creative tie-dye event where you can design your own custom socks and tote bags while connecting with others on campus. Come relax, get colorful, and learn more about our mission to support individuals with movement disorders.

Sponsored by: For Every Step

7 - 9 p.m. | Music Bingo & Karaoke Night | Red's Pub

Get ready for a night full of music, laughs, and friendly competition! Join us for Music Bingo & Karaoke Night—take the mic and stay for giveaways and dessert!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Sunday, September 27

1 p.m. | Family Weekend Teaser Concert | Edgerton Center

Join the SHU Choral Program for an afternoon of music for the first concert of the 2026-27 year! Bring your families who are visiting to get a taste of what SHU Choirs will be presenting this semester!

Sponsored by: Choral Program

Sunday, October 4

Noon - 2 p.m. | Best Buddies Field Day! | Pioneer Village Upper Quad

Join Best Buddies for a fun-filled field day open to all students, featuring games, activities, and opportunities to connect with others across campus. Best Buddies is an organization dedicated to fostering one-to-one friendships, leadership development, and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Whether you're a current member or new to the club, come enjoy a great afternoon while learning more about how Best Buddies creates a more inclusive community.

Sponsored by: Best Buddies

Noon - 3 p.m. | DIY Fidget Fest | Pioneer Pavilion

Want to add another stress toy to your collection? Come join First-Year Programs for an afternoon of creating your own fidget toy!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Tuesday, October 6

Noon - 2 p.m. | Clay and Create | Pioneer Pavilion

Join First-Year Programs at our Clay and Create event! Bring a friend or roommate and challenge them in creating fun clay objects based off our inspo or your own creativity.

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Thursday, October 8

6 - 8 p.m. | Arcade Night | Linda's Fireplace

Come join us for a fun arcade themed night and play your favorite classic arcade games!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs

Friday, October 16

3 - 6 p.m. | OL Inflatable Obstacle Course | Chapel Quad

Want to go against your Orientation Leader in an extreme obstacle course? Join First-Year Programs in an afternoon of fun! Bring your friends and stay to create friendship bracelets after your done!

Sponsored by: First-Year Programs