ETSU students attending campus this fall will have a full week of events aimed at getting involved with the university community and easing their transition into the semester.
Welcome Week will begin Sunday evening with the Welcome Week Block Party at Tri-Hall Field. Carter Warden, director of Student Activities & Organizations, said the event allows students to meet others and begin the semester on a fun note.
“There is a lot happening throughout the week, with something for just about every type of student,” Warden said.
Events scheduled throughout the week include Scoop on Faith, Service & Impact; Dip Into Leadership & Community; the Campus Rec & SGA Pool Party and Sport Club Showcase; the ETSU Pride Community Showcase; the Well-Being Buffet; the ROTC 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament; Arts & Cultural Remix; Pickle & Paddle Social; and the Academic & Honors Campus Roundup.
Numerous student organizations and campus offices will also be hosting their own events. Welcome Week will end with students cheering on the Bucs at the football home opener against Murray State.
Warden said the main purpose of the week is simple. Helping students find their place at ETSU.
“For new students, it’s an opportunity to meet people, learn their way around campus and discover the many ways they can get involved outside the classroom,” he said. “For returning students, it’s a chance to reconnect with friends, discover something new and get energized for another year.”
This year, organizers have worked to offer a wider range of activities instead of centering the week around only a few large programs. Events focus on areas including service, leadership, wellness, recreation, academics, culture and student involvement.
One newer addition is the Pickle & Paddle Social, which will celebrate the opening of the CPA pickleball courts. The Sport Club Showcase has also been expanded to give students another way to have fun and remain active throughout the year.
For students who may not be able to attend everything, Warden recommends starting with the Block Party.
“It’s a great way to start Welcome Week and meet other students. But honestly, my biggest advice is not to just pick one event,” Warden said. “Look through the schedule and try something you’ve never done before. That’s really what Welcome Week is about.”
For students who are hesitant to attend an event without already knowing someone there, Warden said that should not stop them.
“You don’t have to know anyone when you walk into an event. That’s exactly what these programs are for. You may come to an event because there’s free food, a T-shirt or a chance to win a prize, but you might leave having met a new friend, discovered a student organization you want to join or found something that becomes a big part of your ETSU experience.”
“My biggest message to students would be: Don’t spend your first week just going to class and going back to your room. Get out, meet people, try something new and find your place at ETSU.”
