Redevelopment of Norris University Center’s East Lawn to begin this summer
April 5, 2024
President Morton Schapiro on the "second curriculum" (Audio)
Vice President Patricia Telles-Irvin on embracing the challenges of college (Audio)
With the first day of classes approaching, the more than 2,100 incoming Northwestern University freshmen and transfer students made the most of a fun weekend of Wildcat Welcome activities, including a party on the beach, their first Wildcat football game, the President’s Convocation and a picnic on Deering Meadow.
Students spent Friday attending information sessions on topics such as music opportunities for non-music majors, preparing for a career in law, and how to contribute to sustainability efforts at the University. Evening activities included the Rock the Beach party, a performance by The Second City theatre company and a free screening of “Monsters University.”
Saturday afternoon featured the Class of 2017’s first taste of Big Ten football at Ryan Field. After attending a pre-game tailgate lunch and pep rally, new students participated in the annual Wildcat Dash -- running across Ryan Field just before the football team kicked off against the University of Maine. A packed student section then watched the Wildcats defeat the Black Bears by a score of 35-21. After the game, new students spent Saturday night at Six Flags Great America, where they had exclusive access to the park’s numerous rollercoasters and thrill rides.
To finish off the whirlwind weekend, students spent Sunday completing their Essential NU orientation sessions, attending the activities fair at Norris University Center to discover the myriad ways to get involved on campus and participating in a new Wildcat Welcome event -- Night at Target -- featuring snacks, games, a disc jockey and product giveaways.
New students attended the President’s Convocation Monday morning, which featured performances by a capella group The X-Factors and the Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band. University President Morton Schapiro and Vice President for Student Affairs Patricia Telles-Irvin welcomed students and offered advice on how to thrive during their time at Northwestern. Schapiro also hinted at the headlining artist who will perform at the annual A&O Blowout concert to be held Oct. 11 at Welsh-Ryan Arena.
Wildcat Welcome closed out with the Deering Days BBQ picnic on Deering Meadow Monday afternoon, featuring free food and live entertainment.
The real fun begins when classes start Tuesday.
