Before you dive into your first term of classes, we have a jam-packed week of exciting activities to help you become acclimated to campus life. From speakers, to socials, to signing your name on the sidewalk, join your fellow new wolves to begin making your mark at WOU!
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This session will introduce students to Handshake and step them through searching for employment. It will also talk in more detail about why experience matters for their current situation, and their future decisions.
If you're affiliated with the military (Veteran, Family, ROTC, etc) WOU has things for you to know about! Learn about using VA benefits, a lounge just for you on campus, free coffee & snackies, and more! BRING YOUR PHONE... you'll need it 👀
Interested in joining choir? We have a choir for you! Come chat with us about the benefits and opportunities of being in a choir at WOU. We’ll also discuss the audition process (it’s not scary!) and answer any other choir-related questions you may have. See you there!
A 4.0 GPA isn't achieved overnight. Academic success takes time and a series of intentional decisions made over the course of a term in the face of all the challenges life may throw at us. But you are never alone! Join Student Success and Advising as we play a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style game in which we simulate a collegiate term, each week being asked to manage your time in unique ways with various obstacles along your path. We will teach you time management strategies as you go, clue you in on all the great academic resources WOU has to offer, and see if you have what it takes to make your first term one to remember!
Ready to dust for clues like a real crime scene pro? Join a former forensic investigator to uncover the secrets hidden in your fingertips! You’ll lift actual prints, test out different surfaces, and discover how tiny details crack big cases. It’s hands-on, it’s high-stakes, and it might just be your first step into the world of forensic science.
Curious about Title IX? Want to know more about it? Know a lot and want to show off your skills and knowledge!? Join us for Title IX Trivia - Jeopardy Style! We'll learn and laugh together while winning prizes and playing a game-show style version of Trivia!
Ballroom Dance For All. Ballroom dance is a give an take, it is a reflection of the cultures and societies that created them. Come prepared to learn some interesting facts about iconic dances like the Tango and the Swing and stand up and learn these dances with new friends. No experience required. No partner required
We've all seen how it plays out on tv. The stunning but quirky investigator enters the wooded forest gripping the flashlight only to discover what appears to be a skull partially embedded in soil. Is it really bone? Is it human? Is that hole from a gunshot wound? What can we say about the victim from their skeletal remains and what techniques can we use to help catch the perpetrator? We'll cover all this and more in this hands-on session in forensic anthropology and investigation. Caution: you may never be able to watch forensics on television in the same way again.
Unlock your relationship radar: learn how to spot green & red flags while dating, and what consent actually looks like with sexual activity. Come for the chats, stay for the snacks. Fries will be provided*
*Limited number of fries will be available. First come first served!
Dive into the world of leadership with this brief introduction into the topic! We'll talk about the various ways to lead on campus, and opportunities to develop ourselves and our own skills. After all, we will each find ourselves in a leadership position at one time or another. This fun and interactive session will focus on the understanding that leadership is a skill and that it can be developed - what we do with that information is up to us.
Starting college can be intimidating enough without diving headfirst into new software. Join WOU’s Center for Teaching and Learning for a no-pressure, interactive introduction to Canvas. Try out different ways to interact with course content and receive hands-on support, so that you can feel confident when you step into the classroom. Win prizes, eat snacks. Please bring a device that you plan to access Canvas with.
Want to make a difference at WOU? Learn about what you can do to help make our community a better place. During this session, we will go over important standards listed in the Code of Student Responsibility, what the policies mean, being a good community member, and how you can advocate for other students as part of the Student Conduct Committee (SCC). The SCC is a chance for students to hear real cases of alleged misconduct while developing leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills. It takes all of us at WOU to promote a healthy, respectful learning environment. Learn how you can be part of making a better WOU for you and your peers.
How do you know what the requirements are for getting a degree, and how do you keep track of your progress? This session presents an overview of using Degree Tracks, WOU's online progress-tracking tool.
Ready to set yourself up for success? Join us to learn how the On Track Program helps first generation students and students from diverse backgrounds navigate their first year with tailored academic support, personal guidance, and opportunities for community building. This session is designed to help you thrive, no matter where you're starting your journey. This session is for students not yet accepted. If you're already in this program, don’t miss the On Track Orientation on Thursday! (Note: If you are a Diversity Scholar, please attend the Diversity Scholars Orientation instead.)
Interested in the nursing field? Ever wonder what it takes to get into nursing school? We've got you covered! Come learn about the Pre-Nursing track at WOU and how we support students on their journey into this competitive field. This session is designed for Pre-Nursing majors and those interested in learning more about the program. It will also include a Q&A with current Pre-Nursing students.
So, you heard college was free… but then you got an unexpected email about a bill. Now what? Join our session to learn how to navigate your student account and stay on top of your finances with confidence!
Come play a game of Jeopardy while learning about on-campus resources that the Division of Student Affairs offers! Learn who's who and where to go for various resources you'll need and use as a student here, and earn prizes in the process!
So what's your major? - We've all been asked this question at least once by a well meaning adult (and maybe felt some fear in not having the "right" answer). However, roughly 80% of students change their majors at least once during their college careers. So why do we insist that students decide their major as soon as they step foot on campus? Here's a little secret...you don't have to know! Exploring different subjects before making any decisions about your major, especially if you're not sure what you want to do, is why we have the Exploratory Studies major option. In this session, we will play a round of "What's My Major?" Jeopardy to investigate the different job opportunities that come from a variety of different majors. The major and career pairings might surprise you and show you why being asked "what's your major?" isn't anything to fear!
An interactive presentation on what the rugby community and culture at WOU looks like. Come learn a little bit about the history of the program, meet a couple players and find out how you can get involved!
RHA is the secret sauce behind awesome events, student advocacy, and making campus feel like home. Want to know how it all works (and how you can be part of it)? Join us for a fun, interactive session where we break it all down—no boring lectures, just good vibes, great info, and ways to get involved!
As a new student, you will have many thoughts about your experience at WOU and we are eager to hear about them! In this session, you will learn about the WOLF Student Experience Feedback Form and how you can share your story. Join us to learn what topics the form includes, when you can expect to take the form, the feedback we collected from students last year and how we are responding to that feedback. Attend this session to feel more prepared to share your thoughts and understand the vital role student feedback plays on our campus!
Math and science classes can be challenging. Faculty members from these departments invite you to learn about techniques that help students succeed. Current WOU students will share their experiences and thoughts on student success, as well as tips on how to connect with other students through clubs and organizations such as FEM in STEM, the Natural Science Club, the Pre-Med Club, the Math Club, and Byte Club. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the strategies and skills that will help them succeed at WOU. We welcome students who plan to major in math and sciences, as well as students who plan to major in other disciplines but want to do well in their General Education required courses.
Come learn about how the newspaper, radio show, podcast studio, and art magazine happen, and why they need you! Student-run, student-made, and student-led, Student Media at WOU is your chance to publish, produce, create, and find an audience for your passions. Whether you want to investigate stories, write poetry, edit articles, record podcasts, or do a music hour, there’s something for every skill level and interest.
Join us for an informative panel discussion led by the medical and administrative staff from the Student Health and Counseling Center. During this session, we will provide an overview of the medical services offered at SHCC including, but not limited to, general medical care, medication management, birth control, STI screening/treatment, annual exams, etc. Additionally, we will review how to schedule an appointment, any fees that may be involved, and answer any questions you may have.
In this session, you will learn the do's and don't's of communication with faculty and staff. What should you say in an email to a professor? What can you ask for, and what should you avoid? How can you get help when you're confused? What should you do if you're late or absent? And how do you navigate hybrid and online etiquette?
Intramural and Club Sports are a great way to meet meet new people, be active and scratch that competitive itch! Come to this session to learn the difference between Intramural and Club Sports and for information on how to join each.
Come play a game of Jeopardy while learning about on-campus resources that the Division of Student Affairs offers! Learn who's who and where to go for various resources you'll need and use as a student here, and earn prizes in the process!
In this exciting adventure, teams will face off in a race around the university library to explore various hotspots. Teams will navigate to the 24-Hour Room to decode a secret message, visit the Information Desk to find hidden resources, and head to the cozy Learning Commons for a book-matching challenge from the Recreational Reading Collection. At the Writing Center, teams will match bilingual research and writing related concepts. Teams will journey to a 2nd floor study room to conquer a giant word search, and will ultimately dash to the 3rd floor with a (hopefully) stunning view of Mt. Hood and the final clue before racing back to the start.
Ask Me Anything! Abby's House staff will share our services and explain what we can offer to students throughout the year to support you. You can ask anonymous questions to make sure your concerns and questions are answered to best serve you as new students!
We’re hosting a unique Adoption Event where you can build your very own LEGO bird 🏗️🐦 while hanging out with fellow students. Yes, you read that right – a LEGO BIRD! It’s a fun, creative, and hands-on way to unwind after class, and the best part is, you get to take it home with you as your new pet! 🏠 But that’s not all! As you build, you’ll be vibing to some chill tunes 🎶 and playing board games with other students. So, think: relaxed, friendly vibes, and an easy way to socialize without any pressure.
Think you can handle the pressure of a real jury room? In this courtroom showdown, you become the juror. Examine real-life cases, weigh the evidence, and debate the verdict. It’s your civic duty—with a twist of drama and detective work. Bring your inner crime show fan and see if justice is truly served!
We will be playing the traditional Mexican game of "Loteria" but with cards and deck that was tailored to fit our Hispanic Serving Institution eligibilty. Students will have a fun engaging game to play while learning about Western Oregon as an HSI. There will be prizes for winners!
Is it your first time managing money on your own? Do any of the financial terms confuse you? This session will discuss different types of bank accounts, credit vs debit cards, managing and handling your funds, and provide resources that can assist with supporting your money management journey!
National Student Exchange (NSE) is a unique study-away program that allows students to travel and study at another school within the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam, or the Virgin islands - all while staying on track with graduation (and even paying WOU tuition rates!). Learn more about this low-cost, affordable, and accessible program here at WOU!
This immersive learning experience is designed to help individuals and teams redefine their understanding of conflict, transforming it from a source of discomfort into an opportunity for personal and collective development. By emphasizing conflict as a natural and constructive part of human interaction, participants will learn to harness disagreement as a powerful tool for growth, innovation, and strengthened relationships.
Interested in joining choir? We have a choir for you! Come chat with us about the benefits and opportunities of being in a choir at WOU. We’ll also discuss the audition process (it’s not scary!) and answer any other choir-related questions you may have. See you there!
A 4.0 GPA isn't achieved overnight. Academic success takes time and a series of intentional decisions made over the course of a term in the face of all the challenges life may throw at us. But you are never alone! Join Student Success and Advising as we play a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style game in which we simulate a collegiate term, each week being asked to manage your time in unique ways with various obstacles along your path. We will teach you time management strategies as you go, clue you in on all the great academic resources WOU has to offer, and see if you have what it takes to make your first term one to remember!
All new Diversity Commitment Scholars are required to attend this energizing orientation - your first step into the vibrant Diversity Scholars Program. You'll meet the awesome MSSP Team; connect with fellow Scholars; and obtain everything you need to start the Fall Term confident, prepared, and inspired!
Ready to dust for clues like a real crime scene pro? Join a former forensic investigator to uncover the secrets hidden in your fingertips! You’ll lift actual prints, test out different surfaces, and discover how tiny details crack big cases. It’s hands-on, it’s high-stakes, and it might just be your first step into the world of forensic science.
Ready to earn while you learn? Whether you're looking to build your résumé, make new connections, or just earn some extra cash, student employment at WOU offers flexible, on-campus job opportunities designed to fit your schedule. Join us to learn how to find and apply for jobs, understand work-study eligibility, and get tips for landing the perfect position. Your future starts now—let’s get to work!
How do you know what the requirements are for getting a degree, and how do you keep track of your progress? This session presents an overview of using Degree Tracks, WOU's online progress-tracking tool.
In this session, you will learn about the courses that are required for the Psychology major and the order you should take them in (approximately). In addition, several faculty members from Psychology will be in attendance to introduce themselves and describe unique experiences we offer in the Psychology Department (e.g., research assistants, peer mentors).
Curious about Title IX? Want to know more about it? Know a lot and want to show off your skills and knowledge!? Join us for Title IX Trivia - Jeopardy Style! We'll learn and laugh together while winning prizes and playing a game-show style version of Trivia!
Did you know that ASWOU serves and supports all students on campus? Come learn about all things student government at Western: who they are, what they do, how to share your needs and opinions as a student, and how to get involved!
As a new student, you will have many thoughts about your experience at WOU and we are eager to hear about them! In this session, you will learn about the WOLF Student Experience Feedback Form and how you can share your story. Join us to learn what topics the form includes, when you can expect to take the form, the feedback we collected from students last year and how we are responding to that feedback. Attend this session to feel more prepared to share your thoughts and understand the vital role student feedback plays on our campus!
We will be playing the traditional Mexican game of "Loteria" but with cards and deck that was tailored to fit our Hispanic Serving Institution eligibilty. Students will have a fun engaging game to play while learning about Western Oregon as an HSI. There will be prizes for winners!
Join us for an informative panel discussion led by the counselors from the Student Health and Counseling Center. During this session, we will provide guidance to help you understand what to expect during your first counseling appointment. Our counselors will cover a range of topics, including the counseling process, confidentiality, types of services offered, and how to prepare for your appointment.
In this exciting adventure, teams will face off in a race around the university library to explore various hotspots. Teams will navigate to the 24-Hour Room to decode a secret message, visit the Information Desk to find hidden resources, and head to the cozy Learning Commons for a book-matching challenge from the Recreational Reading Collection. At the Writing Center, teams will match bilingual research and writing related concepts. Teams will journey to a 2nd floor study room to conquer a giant word search, and will ultimately dash to the 3rd floor with a (hopefully) stunning view of Mt. Hood and the final clue before racing back to the start.
So what's your major? - We've all been asked this question at least once by a well meaning adult (and maybe felt some fear in not having the "right" answer). However, roughly 80% of students change their majors at least once during their college careers. So why do we insist that students decide their major as soon as they step foot on campus? Here's a little secret...you don't have to know! Exploring different subjects before making any decisions about your major, especially if you're not sure what you want to do, is why we have the Exploratory Studies major option. In this session, we will play a round of "What's My Major?" Jeopardy to investigate the different job opportunities that come from a variety of different majors. The major and career pairings might surprise you and show you why being asked "what's your major?" isn't anything to fear!
Ballroom Dance For All. Ballroom dance is a give an take, it is a reflection of the cultures and societies that created them. Come prepared to learn some interesting facts about iconic dances like the Tango and the Swing and stand up and learn these dances with new friends. No experience required. No partner required
We've all seen how it plays out on tv. The stunning but quirky investigator enters the wooded forest gripping the flashlight only to discover what appears to be a skull partially embedded in soil. Is it really bone? Is it human? Is that hole from a gunshot wound? What can we say about the victim from their skeletal remains and what techniques can we use to help catch the perpetrator? We'll cover all this and more in this hands-on session in forensic anthropology and investigation. Caution: you may never be able to watch forensics on television in the same way again.
The journey starts now, and your Wolf Pack is here to help you lead the way!
Not sure if your tuition is paid? Has your financial aid come through? Not sure where to get your textbooks? Curious about refunds? Need help with adding or dropping classes?
Join us for an info-packed session to get all your questions answered. You’ll walk away feeling confident, prepared, and ready to howl into your first term like a true Wolf!
Think you can handle the pressure of a real jury room? In this courtroom showdown, you become the juror. Examine real-life cases, weigh the evidence, and debate the verdict. It’s your civic duty—with a twist of drama and detective work. Bring your inner crime show fan and see if justice is truly served!
Math and science classes can be challenging. Faculty members from these departments invite you to learn about techniques that help students succeed. Current WOU students will share their experiences and thoughts on student success, as well as tips on how to connect with other students through clubs and organizations such as FEM in STEM, the Natural Science Club, the Pre-Med Club, the Math Club, and Byte Club. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the strategies and skills that will help them succeed at WOU. We welcome students who plan to major in math and sciences, as well as students who plan to major in other disciplines but want to do well in their General Education required courses.
Whether you are a natural ham, can't imagine life without wood shop, or are fashionista looking for a home for your style and flair...We.Have.What.You.Need!!! Come check out what Theatre at WOU has to offer. We'll give you the scoop on all things major. minor, and extra curricular. Want a home away from home? Love creativity and making friends? We've got you covered!! We'll tell you about the shows we're doing, the PAID jobs we have available (so many jobs!!!), the amazing classes we offer (including plenty of opps for NON-MAJORS!), and the MANY ways you can participate.
National Student Exchange (NSE) is a unique study-away program that allows students to travel and study at another school within the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam, or the Virgin islands - all while staying on track with graduation (and even paying WOU tuition rates!). Learn more about this low-cost, affordable, and accessible program here at WOU!
Intramural and Club Sports are a great way to meet meet new people, be active and scratch that competitive itch! Come to this session to learn the difference between Intramural and Club Sports and for information on how to join each.
Starting college can be intimidating enough without diving headfirst into new software. Join WOU’s Center for Teaching and Learning for a no-pressure, interactive introduction to Canvas. Try out different ways to interact with course content and receive hands-on support, so that you can feel confident when you step into the classroom. Win prizes, eat snacks. Please bring a device that you plan to access Canvas with.
Interested in the nursing field? Ever wonder what it takes to get into nursing school? We've got you covered! Come learn about the Pre-Nursing track at WOU and how we support students on their journey into this competitive field. This session is designed for Pre-Nursing majors and those interested in learning more about the program. It will also include a Q&A with current Pre-Nursing students.
Join Student Engagement to find the best involvement opportunity for you! In this session, we will cover everything from clubs and organizations to leadership opportunities on campus and everything in between. This session is perfect if you are unsure of how to get involved here at WOU! Come cultivate a sense of belonging with us!
It's a big world... but how can you afford to live and travel abroad? Answer: by teaching English. There are more English as a second language users in the world than native speakers of English, and there is still a high demand for English teachers in countries where English is not a language used by most people at home. However, unlike in the past when any native speaker of English was assumed to be capable of teaching the language to students, today the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) has become professionalized and schools want to hire trained English teachers. WOU's English Department offers a 26-credit TEFL Certificate that can be completed as a Minor in Linguistics and will complement any number of Majors from Business to Education to International or Interdisciplinary Studies or English Studies. Join us to learn about teaching abroad and answer any questions you have. Whether you make teaching your career or use your skills to live abroad for a year or two after graduating but before starting a career in the US, employers value experience abroad, and your life will never be the same.
This session will introduce students to Handshake and step them through searching for employment. It will also talk in more detail about why experience matters for their current situation, and their future decisions.
So, you heard college was free… but then you got an unexpected email about a bill. Now what? Join our session to learn how to navigate your student account and stay on top of your finances with confidence!
Get ready to embark on your On-Track journey! This mandatory orientation is your first step to success, where you'll meet MSSP staff, connect with fellow students, and ensure you're fully prepared for fall term. The Wolfpack is here to support you every step of the way! (Note: This is only for students already accepted into the On Track Program.)
If you are interested in taking classes in Modern Dance, Ballet, or Jazz, please come to this placement class. If you are interested in choreographing or dancing in choreography by others, come to this placement class. If you are interested in being part of the dance community, whether you are a dance major, a dance minor, or just because you like to dance. It will be fun and low-pressure. We would like to welcome new people to the dance community here at Western Oregon University. Please join us for the placement class and meet other students on campus who share your passion for dance.
Unlock your relationship radar: learn how to spot green & red flags while dating, and what consent actually looks like with sexual activity. Come for the chats, stay for the snacks. Fries will be provided*
*Limited number of fries will be available. First come first served!
Ready to earn while you learn? Whether you're looking to build your résumé, make new connections, or just earn some extra cash, student employment at WOU offers flexible, on-campus job opportunities designed to fit your schedule. Join us to learn how to find and apply for jobs, understand work-study eligibility, and get tips for landing the perfect position. Your future starts now—let’s get to work!
Is it your first time managing money on your own? Do any of the financial terms confuse you? This session will discuss different types of bank accounts, credit vs debit cards, managing and handling your funds, and provide resources that can assist with supporting your money management journey!
