What is Bulldog Welcome Week?
The Bulldog Welcome Week experience is the next step in preparing first-year students for success at UMD. This program will help you get connected with new and returning students, discover UMD traditions, attend fun and engaging events, and find out what it means to be a Bulldog! All new freshmen admitted for Fall 2024 are required to attend.
Do I need to attend New Student Orientation and Bulldog Welcome Week? What's the difference between the two?
Yes! New Student Orientation is primarily an academic orientation session, and Bulldog Welcome Week is preparation and celebration of your arrival on campus! Just like regular class attendance is important for academic success, your participation in Bulldog Welcome Week is important to adjusting and getting you acquainted with your new campus.
When is Bulldog Welcome Week?
Physical move-in dates are August 21st and 22nd! Your experience starts with your Canvas courses and continues through your arrival on campus--then we send parents and families home, and it's all about you and your new Bulldog self!
The official programming for Bulldog Welcome Week begins August 22nd, but don’t worry if you move to campus before then there will be activities and events in which you can participate. In summary, Bulldog Welcome Week activities will take place August 21-24!
Is there a fee for Bulldog Welcome Week?
No! The cost to attend Bulldog Welcome Week was included in your confirmation/orientation fee.
How do I sign up for Bulldog Welcome Week events?
There is no need for students to sign up for most events and activities. Just show up ready to have a great experience! Once students have submitted their confirmation/orientation fee, they will be registered for Bulldog Welcome Week.
When is Move-In Day?
Students will move in over a two day period: August 21 and 22. You will have an appointment time slot for your move in time! For additional information and details regarding move-in, please refer to the Housing and Residence Life website: http://d.umn.edu/housing-residence-life/applications-assignments/movein.
What if I don't live on campus?
All incoming students, regardless of where they live, are required to participate in Bulldog Welcome Week. It is especially important for off-campus students, since it provides an early opportunity to make friends, get involved, and find connections to the campus community. Worried about finding a place to stay between classes? Check out this downloadable study spot map!
What if I'm participating in an Athletics or Marching Band camp during Bulldog Welcome Week?
Work with your coach or Marching Band Director on what Bulldog Welcome Week events you would like to attend. You will be excused from practice/rehearsals for any mandatory in-person events.
Parent & Family Questions
Do parents and families stay with their students during Bulldog Welcome Week?
Parents and families do not stay with their students - there are no parent activities offered. Bulldog Beginnings Weekend is designed for new students to learn about UMD and the programs and services offered to support their success. Guests are invited to help move their student into their residence hall or apartment. Then it's time to say your goodbyes as your Bulldog begins their college journey!
Still have questions? Contact us at bb-kirby@d.umn.edu.