As Laker Welcome Week kicks off at Grand Valley State University, both incoming and returning students will have numerous opportunities to get involved, meet other students and learn about campus resources through various events and games.
Campus Life Night, the University’s largest welcome event, gathers more than 7,500 students each year to celebrate the start of the semester. Held Aug. 24 from 6-8 p.m. in Lot H1, the event will feature over 370 registered tables where student organizations, campus departments, local businesses and nonprofit organizations showcase opportunities for campus involvement.
Performances by student groups, a live DJ from WCKS Whale Radio, the University’s student-run station and interactive activities aim to create an energetic atmosphere. Attendees can try their hand at putt-putt golf with the Collegiate Midnight Golf Program or compete in a dodgeball contest hosted by the national champion of the Dodgeball Club. They can also test their skills in a robotic, drop-latch game presented by the FIRST Alumni Network.
Additionally, this year will introduce a new scavenger hunt through LakerLink, where students can scan QR codes at the event for a chance to win limited-edition prizes. The event will also offer giveaways, hygiene kits provided by the church Grand Rapids First and free haircuts from the Allendale barbershop Hair Headquarters. Food truck options will include Big Mike’s Kettle Corn, Louie’s Lunchbox, Kona Ice and Neko Taiyaki.
To Brianna Slager, assistant director of student organizations through the Office of Student Life, Campus Life Night is designed to connect students with their community.
“(Campus Life Night) is the best spot to meet students with similar interests and find your community at GVSU,” Slager said.
In addition to Campus Life Night, students can test their knowledge and learn more about campus resources at the Trivia with Success Coaches event. Hosted by the Student Academic Success Center, the event will take place at the Cook Carillon Tower Aug. 21 from 12-2 p.m. Success coaches will greet new and returning students with trivia questions, information about academic support services and free giveaways.
The trivia games will feature categories ranging from GVSU knowledge and academic strategies to pop culture. Students will also have the chance to win prizes, including popsicles to beat the summer heat.
Elizabeth Chase, assistant director of Student Success Programs, said the goal of the event is to help students become aware of support options, understand the role of success coaches and build relationships with University staff.
“Getting connected to our office early can help students gain critical strategies and build relationships with staff who care about their success,” Chase said.
Finally, GVSU’s LakerLink platform now includes a “leveling up” feature that lets students earn digital badges for their campus involvement. Some badges come with incentives, such as access to activities at Laker Kickoff Aug. 22 from 6-11 p.m. Students can earn the Laker Kickoff Badge by completing a waiver and checking in at the event to receive a wristband, allowing them to participate in the kickoff’s activities such as a lawn party, food trucks and fireworks.
From high-energy gatherings to small-group activities, this year’s Welcome Week includes events for students with ranges of interests. These events not only mark the start of a new academic year, but also help Lakers connect with the campus community, discover new interests and set the tone for a successful semester.
