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Your First Week in Five Photos: A snapshot of Wisconsin Welcome

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By Mia McCauley, Student Affairs Intern 

Welcome (back) to campus Badgers! Like many new (and returning) college students, you might be feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and possibly uncertainty. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Wisconsin Welcome is here to help you settle in, find your people, and start making memories.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s ahead in your first week on campus —captured through five photographs that each reflect the essence of Wisconsin Welcome:

1. The W Project: Bucky’s 5th Quarter 

  • August 27, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

First-year students, along with UW mascot Bucky Badger and Chancellor Mnookin form the shape of an iconic Motion W as part of the W Project on Barry Alvarez Field at Camp Randall Stadium.

Picture yourself in Camp Randall Stadium, surrounded by thousands of new Badgers, all cheering and dancing in the stands. This is the W Project: our way of saying, “You belong here!” This featured event is designed to immerse new students in Badger tradition, and help introduce them to their surrounding community. Whether you’re a first-year or a transfer student, it’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate Badger tradition and school spirit.  

2. Bakke Block Party

  • August 29, 3–6 p.m.

Exterior of the Bakke Recreation and Wellbeing Center.

Held at the state-of-the-art Bakke Recreation & Wellbeing Center, this celebration showcases one of the coolest spots on campus, while hosting fun, well-being focused activities. Students can enjoy a skate in the Sub-Zero Ice Center, play games, and meet other new students. Plus, it’s totally free—you can’t miss it. 

3. Sunburst Festival

  • August 31, 7–11 p.m.

Spotlights shine on the exterior of Union South as people arrive for the Wisconsin Union Sunburst Festival at the University of Wisconsin-Madison at night.

During Wisconsin Welcome, the Sunburst Festival turns Union South into a playground of fun. From Backyard Olympics, bowling and ping pong, to karaoke, food samples, and silent discos—all for free! It’s a great way for students to explore campus life, meet new people, and unwind before the stress of the semester starts.

4. New Student Convocation 

  • September 2, 1:30–2:45 p.m.

UW Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin takes a selfie with the incoming class during the Chancellor's Convocation for New Students, a Wisconsin Welcome event held at the Kohl Center.

New Student Convocation serves as the official welcome to UW–Madison. New and transfer students are invited to join Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin and other campus leaders for a fall semester kick-off. It’s a great moment to reflect on the journey ahead, feel inspired, and remember you’re part of something big.

5. Red Gym Open House 

  • August 28, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Lake Mendota dotted with boats is pictured in an aerial view with the Red Gym in the foreground at the University of Wisconsin–Madison on June 10, 2024. (Photo by Bryce Richter / UW–Madison)

The Red Gym is more than just a beautiful building—it’s home to some incredible campus services, resources, and people. Come to the open house and discover and connect with the Multicultural Student Center, the Office of Inclusion Education, and the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, housed within the Red Gym, along with partners like the McBurney Disability Center, University Veterans Services, and the Disability Cultural Center — all designed to support your campus experience.

Each of these events is a chance to meet new students, explore campus, and ease the transition into Badger life. So get ready, take in the moment, and make your first week unforgettable. 

For more information on Wisconsin Welcome events, check out the full schedule!