As the fall semester can be a busy time for both new and returning students, Mason offers a variety of programs and events to support the entire Mason community during the transition. For new students, learning to navigate campus, making connections with peers, and understanding university resources can be overwhelming, but Mason strives to aid students during this pivotal time. The Preamble and Welcome2Mason are a few of the first experiences in the fall semester that will usher in the 2017-2018 year. Welcome2Mason events begin on August 24 and end on September 16.
The Preamble, which will take place August 24-25, is Mason’s extended orientation program geared towards welcoming and acclimating new students to the Mason community. It brings together freshman and transfer students before the start of the fall semester to officially initiate their experience at Mason.
At the conclusion of The Preamble, Welcome2Mason will commence. This is a series of programs and events held during the first three weeks of the fall semester to bring together students, faculty, and staff as we kick off the new academic year. This is a great opportunity for new students to learn about Mason traditions and create connections with their peers and campus resources.
The Get Connected Fair will be held on September 6 at the Fairfax campus and will showcase various service opportunities, academic resources, student organizations, and recreational activities. Additionally, throughout the first week of classes, “Ask Me” tents will be posted across campus to answer questions, give directions, and provide important information to new and returning students.
Nearly 200 events will be sponsored across the university’s campuses during Welcome2Mason this year, engaging approximately 15,000 Patriots. These events include academic receptions, social events, involvement fairs, spirit rallies, educational development programs, and feature free food and prizes. Encourage your student to attend any of this year’s events to meet new friends, join an organization, or simply feel more confident as they embark on their college journey.
A list of events and information can be found at welcome2mason.gmu.edu. We are excited to welcome students back to campus and look forward to the start of fall 2017! #Welcome2Mason
Rick Gray
Associate Director
Orientation and Family Programs and Services