Salem Student Schedule of Events  (2024 detailed schedule coming soon)

Opening Days 2024 will take place August 21-25, 2024 for all new Salem students, whether they live on or off campus. New students living on campus will move into the residence halls on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. Parents and family members are welcome to join their students for the move-in process as well as some programs later in the day.

All students should plan to arrive on campus no later than 12pm on Wednesday, August 21 so they are ready for afternoon and evening programs. All students need to pick up their Opening Days packet, which contains important schedule information for the week.

If you are an early arrival athlete (football, soccer or volleyball), you will receive specific information from your coach regarding a move-in date. However, all student-athletes participate in Opening Days.

Parent and Family Meal Tickets (Salem Students Only)

If you are coming to campus to move your student into the residence halls and/or participate in Opening Days events on August 21, we welcome you to join them for a picnic dinner from 5-6:30pm on Brown Field. There will also be a lunch on Thursday, August 22 on Brown Field from 12:00-1:30pm to say goodbye to students.

You do not need to purchase a ticket for your student, as their meals are covered by the Opening Days dining plan.

You may purchase tickets online for a lower cost in advance, or you may purchase tickets in person on August 21. Online ticket sales will open later in the summer.

The menu and prices for both the picnic dinner and lunch are available here.

PNCA Student Schedule of Events

New Student Orientation (NSO) 2023  take place August 23-26, 2023, for all new students on the Portland campus, whether they live on or off campus. New students living on campus will move into the residence halls on Tuesday, Aug 22, 2023.

All students should plan to arrive on campus no later than 9:00am on Wednesday, August 23rd, for the Welcome Program starting at 9:30am. All students need to pick up their NSO packet, which contains important schedule information for the week when they arrive at the Arlene and Harold Schnitzer Center for Art and Design (511 NW Broadway).

For Students

First-Year Students (Salem)

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

7 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
New Student Check-In, Matthews Hall or Kaneko Commons
Pick up your Opening Days packet, keys to your residence hall and mailbox, and student ID card.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Settling-In Activities, Campus-wide
Refer to the Settling-In Checklist in your packet for tasks to complete during this time. Activities are divided by those that must be done on this day and those that can be done at your leisure.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Opening Days Headquarters Open, Office of Student Engagement & Leadership, Putnam University Center, 2nd floor
Open to: First-Year Students
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panhellenic Council Rummage Sale, Jackson Plaza
Hosted by the Willamette sorority community, you'll find items commonly needed for college life, including mini fridges, hangers, alarm clocks, lamps and more. All of the items have been donated by students who've lived in the residence halls.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
First in Family! Parent and Family Reception, Cat Cavern, 2nd floor, University Center
Staff, students, and faculty are excited to welcome first generation students and families to the Willamette community! First generation students are students whose parents or immediate family did not complete a bachelor’s degree or are not familiar with the U.S higher education system. If this describes you, please join us with your family to connect with other first generation families and the Willamette staff and faculty.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–6:30 p.m.
Opening Days Kick-Off Picnic, Brown Field (south of Goudy Commons; if rain, seating available in Goudy Commons and Putnam University Center) Line starts at Hatfield Fountain
A picnic dinner for new students and their families. During dinner, students can sign up for Passport to Salem, Passport to PNCA, and Bearcats Give Back. Parents and family members will need a ticket, students will use their dining plans. Tickets will be available for purchase in Goudy Commons and Blitz Market. Join us at 6pm for a special welcome from your Opening Days leaders.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: Transfer and International Students
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session #1
After the picnic, meet your Opening Days leader and group members for your first meeting. Look for your leaders holding a sign with your group number on it.
Open to: First-Year Students

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

7–9 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Opening Days Headquarters Open, Putnam University Center, Office of Student Engagement and Leadership, 2nd Floor
Open to: First-Year Students
9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Meet Your Colloquium Associate, Colloquium Classroom
Meet your Colloquium Associate (CA) and classmates before walking to Opening Convocation together.
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Opening Convocation: “Bursting the Bubble”, Quad
Join the faculty and administration as the Willamette community formally opens the 2023-24 academic year. Featured Speaker: Jaime Arredondo '05, Executive Director at CAPACES Leadership Institute.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch & Goodbyes, Brown Field
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats Give Back outside of Goudy. Families who are still on campus should depart after lunch.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–3 p.m.
College Colloquium, College Colloquium Classrooms
(first-year students only; transfer students participate in their group session)
Open to: First-Year Students
1:30 - 3 p.m.
Transfer and International Group Sessions
Open to: First-Year Students
3:30–4:30 p.m.
Commuter Student Meet Up, Hatfield Library Fishbowl
A commuter student panel of upperclassmen will be available to answer any questions.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5 - 7 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons/Brown Field
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7–8 p.m.
Residence Hall Community Gatherings
All students will meet with their residence hall floor mates. Ask your RA for the meeting location.
Open to: First-Year Students
8–9 p.m.
Residence Hall Association Social Event, Montag Plaza
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Thursday, August 24, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
9–10:30 a.m.
College Colloquium Group Session, Colloquium Classrooms
First-year students will meet with their colloquium associate for a group session.
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. – Noon
College Colloquium
Open to: First-Year Students
12–1:30 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–4 p.m.
Speak About It: Consent Education (required), Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center
Speak About It uses true storytelling and live performance to capture what healthy relationships and sex can and should look like. The show is performed by five actor-educators, and uses real stories written by real young people in order to engage students in conversations about consent, dating, sex, identity, alcohol, bystander intervention, sexual assault, and more. At 1:30 p.m. OD groups 1-15 attend while at 3 p.m. OD groups 16-29 attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–4 p.m.
Not Unto Ourselves Alone: Community Care and Inclusion, Cone Chapel, 2nd floor, Waller Hall
Our campus culture is dynamic and shaped by each and every person within it. Learn about creating inclusive community, being in connection with one another, and where to turn to for support. At 1:30 p.m. OD groups 16-29 attend while at 3 p.m. OD groups 1-15 attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30–7 p.m.
Dinner & Opening Days Group Session, Goudy Commons/ Brown Field
See your Opening Days Leader for your group’s assigned time.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7:30–8:30 p.m.
Matriculation Ceremony, The Quad
All first-year and transfer students should take part in this Willamette tradition.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
9–11 p.m.
Glow Up, Montag Den & Plaza
Join your newly found peers in a fun night of laughing, dancing, singing, and glowing! Glow Up is a dance held on the third night of Opening Days after Matriculation. We celebrate your transition to WU with a dance, some Bistro treats, and a lot of music.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Friday, August 25, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–10 a.m.
College Colloquium Prep Time
Open to: First-Year Students
9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
“Speed” Transfer and International (non-first year) Orientation Program
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. – Noon
College Colloquium
Open to: First-Year Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
Noon – 3 p.m.
Lunch with College Colloquium Associate and/or Academic Advising Appointments
Open to: First-Year Students
1–2 p.m.
Calculus Sequence Placement Advising, Ford 212
This is an open advising session for students who are unsure about which calculus course to take.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1–3 p.m.
Academic Advising Appointments
Academic Advising Appointments should go after Calculus Sequence Placement Advising based on time period.
Open to:
2–3 p.m.
3-2 Engineering Informational Session, Collins 205
First-year students interested in our pre-engineering/3-2 engineering program with Columbia University, Washington University or University of Southern California should attend this session to learn more about the requirements.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2–3 p.m.
Dining Services Tour & Accommodation Q&A, Goudy Commons
Brought to you by AES and the Goudy Management Team. Learn about inclusive food accommodation practices available to students dining on campus. This orientation event is for students who manage food allergies, celiac disease and medical diets. The event includes a tour of Goudy that highlights need-to-know information: where to find ingredient labels at each food station, sourcing gluten free items, and a discussion of food safety practices. A question and answer session with General Manager Eric Thomas will be part of the tour. Jeff Larson from Accessible Education Services will be available to talk with students individually after the event.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2-3 p.m.
Health Professions Session, Collins 318
All students planning careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, optometry, etc., should attend this meeting.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
3–4 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
3–7 p.m.
Athletics Practice Time
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4–5 p.m.
Shabbat Kiddush, Center for Equity and Empowerment (E&E), Renjen Center
Enjoy a taste of Challah and learn more about our student organization.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30–9 p.m.
Passport to Salem
Experience the city of Salem and have fun with your new classmates! You can check out restaurants and cafes in the downtown Salem area and cap the day off with a nice sunset at Riverfront Park. You'll also have the option of creating a special keepsake at Create a Memory pottery studio from 4:30 to 6 p.m. You can sign up for Passport to Salem in advance at lunch outside of Goudy Commons.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Passport to Downtown
Get ready to explore downtown Salem and see local businesses. You’ll receive a pamphlet of student favorites to possibly visit. Meet at the Star Trees at 5:00 pm.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Create a Memory Studio
If you’re looking for something creative to do, sign up to paint a ceramic piece, which then will be fired for you and brought back to campus when it’s ready. Ask your OD leader for meeting location and time.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Riverfront Park
Campus is surrounded by beautiful parks, and Riverfront Park is one of them. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and outdoor activities. Meet at Star Trees at 5:30 pm.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Oregon State Fair
The official state fair of Oregon. Buses will take you to the fair, where you can enjoy rides, exhibits, and food!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Escape Rooms
Go and test your skill at an escape room. Exodus is located underneath Fork Forty Food Hall just a few blocks away from campus!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Wreckingballers
A chance to release some pent up energy you may have, Wreckingballers is a place where you can safely break objects and have fun! It is located a few blocks from campus underneath Fork Forty Food Hall.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7 p.m.
Men's Soccer vs. Western Oregon University, Sparks Field
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–9 p.m.
Friday Night Jam Session, Waller Hall, Cone Chapel
Join us for meditation, reflection, and our annual Jam Session! All are invited no matter your ethical, spiritual, or religious orientation. Calling all singers, musicians, and poets! Contact Chaplain Ineda at ipadesanya@willamette.edu in advance to ensure adequate technology.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Saturday, August 26, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10–11:30 a.m.
Music Theory Assessment, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center, Rogers Rehearsal Hall
This assessment is for students who are interested in majoring or minoring in music.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Bearcats Give Back, Cat Cavern, Putnam University Center, Second Floor
Want to take your first step in being an active Salem community member during your time at Willamette? Bearcats Give Back is all about working with our neighbors at different volunteer sites in Salem! Build your Willamette community while building Salem community connections, and learn about the important work local organizations are doing. Look out for us tabling during Opening Days, or ask your Opening Days Leader how to get involved!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Passport to PNCA, Pacific Northwest College of Art Campus
Join your classmates for a road trip to Willamette’s newest college, Pacific Northwest College of Art. While on campus, you will participate in making a project with other students and enjoy lunch. This is a fun opportunity to learn more about our Portland campus.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6–6:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6:30–8 p.m.
Starting the Conversation, Smith Auditorium
Members of the Opening Days staff present an insightful and honest look at situations new students could face at Willamette. In between speeches from important on-campus resources and club communities, this event will present a series of scenarios that touch on experiences one may have in the course of their college career that they might not be prepared for, show examples of facilitating healthy discussions, and provide information about Willamette’s support network.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–9 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Sunday, August 27, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5 p.m.
Men's Soccer vs. Corban University, Sparks Field
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7–9 p.m.
Willamette Night Out
Willamette Night Out (WNO) showcases the many events and programs that occur on campus through the course of each semester. Activities will take place all across campus, including Open Mic Night in the Bistro, S’mores Jackson Plaza, Games in Sparks, Nerf Battles on the Quad, Meet the Music Department Conductors in Rogers Rehearsal Hall, and so much more! For a detailed schedule, check with your Opening Days leader.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Monday, August 28, 2023

7–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m.
Classes Begin!
Classes begin for all first-year, transfer, and international students.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

4–5:30 p.m.
Theatre Open House
All first-year, transfer, and international students are welcome to attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Theatre Scholarship Recipient Meeting
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

4–5 p.m.
Dining Services Tour & Accommodation Q&A, Goudy Commons
Brought to you by AES and the Goudy Management Team. Learn about inclusive food accommodation practices available to students dining on campus. This orientation event is for students who manage food allergies, celiac disease and medical diets. The event includes a tour of Goudy that highlights need-to-know information: where to find ingredient labels at each food station, sourcing gluten free items, and a discussion of food safety practices. A question and answer session with General Manager Eric Thomas will be part of the tour. Jeff Larson from Accessible Education Services will be available to talk with students individually after the event.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4–7 p.m.
Target Shopping Event, 3790 Center Street NE, Salem
Welcome to a special shopping event for Willamette students. Free shuttle buses will depart from the Sparks parking lot starting at 3:45 p.m. and will run until 7 p.m.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Transfer and International Students (Salem)

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

7 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
New Student Check-In, Matthews Hall or Kaneko Commons
Pick up your Opening Days packet, keys to your residence hall and mailbox, and student ID card.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Settling-In Activities, Campus-wide
Refer to the Settling-In Checklist in your packet for tasks to complete during this time. Activities are divided by those that must be done on this day and those that can be done at your leisure.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Opening Days Headquarters Open, Office of Student Engagement & Leadership, Putnam University Center, 2nd floor
Open to: First-Year Students
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panhellenic Council Rummage Sale, Jackson Plaza
Hosted by the Willamette sorority community, you'll find items commonly needed for college life, including mini fridges, hangers, alarm clocks, lamps and more. All of the items have been donated by students who've lived in the residence halls.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
First in Family! Parent and Family Reception, Cat Cavern, 2nd floor, University Center
Staff, students, and faculty are excited to welcome first generation students and families to the Willamette community! First generation students are students whose parents or immediate family did not complete a bachelor’s degree or are not familiar with the U.S higher education system. If this describes you, please join us with your family to connect with other first generation families and the Willamette staff and faculty.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–6:30 p.m.
Opening Days Kick-Off Picnic, Brown Field (south of Goudy Commons; if rain, seating available in Goudy Commons and Putnam University Center) Line starts at Hatfield Fountain
A picnic dinner for new students and their families. During dinner, students can sign up for Passport to Salem, Passport to PNCA, and Bearcats Give Back. Parents and family members will need a ticket, students will use their dining plans. Tickets will be available for purchase in Goudy Commons and Blitz Market. Join us at 6pm for a special welcome from your Opening Days leaders.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: Transfer and International Students
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session #1
After the picnic, meet your Opening Days leader and group members for your first meeting. Look for your leaders holding a sign with your group number on it.
Open to: First-Year Students

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

7–9 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Opening Days Headquarters Open, Putnam University Center, Office of Student Engagement and Leadership, 2nd Floor
Open to: First-Year Students
9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Meet Your Colloquium Associate, Colloquium Classroom
Meet your Colloquium Associate (CA) and classmates before walking to Opening Convocation together.
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Opening Convocation: “Bursting the Bubble”, Quad
Join the faculty and administration as the Willamette community formally opens the 2023-24 academic year. Featured Speaker: Jaime Arredondo '05, Executive Director at CAPACES Leadership Institute.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch & Goodbyes, Brown Field
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats Give Back outside of Goudy. Families who are still on campus should depart after lunch.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–3 p.m.
College Colloquium, College Colloquium Classrooms
(first-year students only; transfer students participate in their group session)
Open to: First-Year Students
1:30 - 3 p.m.
Transfer and International Group Sessions
Open to: First-Year Students
3:30–4:30 p.m.
Commuter Student Meet Up, Hatfield Library Fishbowl
A commuter student panel of upperclassmen will be available to answer any questions.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5 - 7 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons/Brown Field
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7–8 p.m.
Residence Hall Community Gatherings
All students will meet with their residence hall floor mates. Ask your RA for the meeting location.
Open to: First-Year Students
8–9 p.m.
Residence Hall Association Social Event, Montag Plaza
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Thursday, August 24, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
9–10:30 a.m.
College Colloquium Group Session, Colloquium Classrooms
First-year students will meet with their colloquium associate for a group session.
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. – Noon
College Colloquium
Open to: First-Year Students
12–1:30 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–4 p.m.
Speak About It: Consent Education (required), Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center
Speak About It uses true storytelling and live performance to capture what healthy relationships and sex can and should look like. The show is performed by five actor-educators, and uses real stories written by real young people in order to engage students in conversations about consent, dating, sex, identity, alcohol, bystander intervention, sexual assault, and more. At 1:30 p.m. OD groups 1-15 attend while at 3 p.m. OD groups 16-29 attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1:30–4 p.m.
Not Unto Ourselves Alone: Community Care and Inclusion, Cone Chapel, 2nd floor, Waller Hall
Our campus culture is dynamic and shaped by each and every person within it. Learn about creating inclusive community, being in connection with one another, and where to turn to for support. At 1:30 p.m. OD groups 16-29 attend while at 3 p.m. OD groups 1-15 attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30–7 p.m.
Dinner & Opening Days Group Session, Goudy Commons/ Brown Field
See your Opening Days Leader for your group’s assigned time.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7:30–8:30 p.m.
Matriculation Ceremony, The Quad
All first-year and transfer students should take part in this Willamette tradition.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
9–11 p.m.
Glow Up, Montag Den & Plaza
Join your newly found peers in a fun night of laughing, dancing, singing, and glowing! Glow Up is a dance held on the third night of Opening Days after Matriculation. We celebrate your transition to WU with a dance, some Bistro treats, and a lot of music.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Friday, August 25, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–10 a.m.
College Colloquium Prep Time
Open to: First-Year Students
9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
“Speed” Transfer and International (non-first year) Orientation Program
Open to: First-Year Students
10:30 a.m. – Noon
College Colloquium
Open to: First-Year Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Sign ups for Passport to Salem, PNCA and Bearcats give back outside of Goudy.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
Noon – 3 p.m.
Lunch with College Colloquium Associate and/or Academic Advising Appointments
Open to: First-Year Students
1–2 p.m.
Calculus Sequence Placement Advising, Ford 212
This is an open advising session for students who are unsure about which calculus course to take.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
1–3 p.m.
Academic Advising Appointments
Academic Advising Appointments should go after Calculus Sequence Placement Advising based on time period.
Open to:
2–3 p.m.
3-2 Engineering Informational Session, Collins 205
First-year students interested in our pre-engineering/3-2 engineering program with Columbia University, Washington University or University of Southern California should attend this session to learn more about the requirements.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2–3 p.m.
Dining Services Tour & Accommodation Q&A, Goudy Commons
Brought to you by AES and the Goudy Management Team. Learn about inclusive food accommodation practices available to students dining on campus. This orientation event is for students who manage food allergies, celiac disease and medical diets. The event includes a tour of Goudy that highlights need-to-know information: where to find ingredient labels at each food station, sourcing gluten free items, and a discussion of food safety practices. A question and answer session with General Manager Eric Thomas will be part of the tour. Jeff Larson from Accessible Education Services will be available to talk with students individually after the event.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
2-3 p.m.
Health Professions Session, Collins 318
All students planning careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, optometry, etc., should attend this meeting.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
3–4 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
3–7 p.m.
Athletics Practice Time
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4–5 p.m.
Shabbat Kiddush, Center for Equity and Empowerment (E&E), Renjen Center
Enjoy a taste of Challah and learn more about our student organization.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30–9 p.m.
Passport to Salem
Experience the city of Salem and have fun with your new classmates! You can check out restaurants and cafes in the downtown Salem area and cap the day off with a nice sunset at Riverfront Park. You'll also have the option of creating a special keepsake at Create a Memory pottery studio from 4:30 to 6 p.m. You can sign up for Passport to Salem in advance at lunch outside of Goudy Commons.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Passport to Downtown
Get ready to explore downtown Salem and see local businesses. You’ll receive a pamphlet of student favorites to possibly visit. Meet at the Star Trees at 5:00 pm.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Create a Memory Studio
If you’re looking for something creative to do, sign up to paint a ceramic piece, which then will be fired for you and brought back to campus when it’s ready. Ask your OD leader for meeting location and time.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Riverfront Park
Campus is surrounded by beautiful parks, and Riverfront Park is one of them. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and outdoor activities. Meet at Star Trees at 5:30 pm.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Oregon State Fair
The official state fair of Oregon. Buses will take you to the fair, where you can enjoy rides, exhibits, and food!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Escape Rooms
Go and test your skill at an escape room. Exodus is located underneath Fork Forty Food Hall just a few blocks away from campus!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4:30-9 p.m.
Passport to Salem: Wreckingballers
A chance to release some pent up energy you may have, Wreckingballers is a place where you can safely break objects and have fun! It is located a few blocks from campus underneath Fork Forty Food Hall.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7 p.m.
Men's Soccer vs. Western Oregon University, Sparks Field
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–9 p.m.
Friday Night Jam Session, Waller Hall, Cone Chapel
Join us for meditation, reflection, and our annual Jam Session! All are invited no matter your ethical, spiritual, or religious orientation. Calling all singers, musicians, and poets! Contact Chaplain Ineda at ipadesanya@willamette.edu in advance to ensure adequate technology.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Saturday, August 26, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10–11:30 a.m.
Music Theory Assessment, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center, Rogers Rehearsal Hall
This assessment is for students who are interested in majoring or minoring in music.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Bearcats Give Back, Cat Cavern, Putnam University Center, Second Floor
Want to take your first step in being an active Salem community member during your time at Willamette? Bearcats Give Back is all about working with our neighbors at different volunteer sites in Salem! Build your Willamette community while building Salem community connections, and learn about the important work local organizations are doing. Look out for us tabling during Opening Days, or ask your Opening Days Leader how to get involved!
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Passport to PNCA, Pacific Northwest College of Art Campus
Join your classmates for a road trip to Willamette’s newest college, Pacific Northwest College of Art. While on campus, you will participate in making a project with other students and enjoy lunch. This is a fun opportunity to learn more about our Portland campus.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6–6:30 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
6:30–8 p.m.
Starting the Conversation, Smith Auditorium
Members of the Opening Days staff present an insightful and honest look at situations new students could face at Willamette. In between speeches from important on-campus resources and club communities, this event will present a series of scenarios that touch on experiences one may have in the course of their college career that they might not be prepared for, show examples of facilitating healthy discussions, and provide information about Willamette’s support network.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8–9 p.m.
Opening Days Group Session, OD Classrooms
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Sunday, August 27, 2023

8–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lunch, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5 p.m.
Men's Soccer vs. Corban University, Sparks Field
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5–8 p.m.
Dinner, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
7–9 p.m.
Willamette Night Out
Willamette Night Out (WNO) showcases the many events and programs that occur on campus through the course of each semester. Activities will take place all across campus, including Open Mic Night in the Bistro, S’mores Jackson Plaza, Games in Sparks, Nerf Battles on the Quad, Meet the Music Department Conductors in Rogers Rehearsal Hall, and so much more! For a detailed schedule, check with your Opening Days leader.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Monday, August 28, 2023

7–10 a.m.
Breakfast, Goudy Commons
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
8 a.m.
Classes Begin!
Classes begin for all first-year, transfer, and international students.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

4–5:30 p.m.
Theatre Open House
All first-year, transfer, and international students are welcome to attend.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Theatre Scholarship Recipient Meeting
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students

Wednesday, August 30, 2023

4–5 p.m.
Dining Services Tour & Accommodation Q&A, Goudy Commons
Brought to you by AES and the Goudy Management Team. Learn about inclusive food accommodation practices available to students dining on campus. This orientation event is for students who manage food allergies, celiac disease and medical diets. The event includes a tour of Goudy that highlights need-to-know information: where to find ingredient labels at each food station, sourcing gluten free items, and a discussion of food safety practices. A question and answer session with General Manager Eric Thomas will be part of the tour. Jeff Larson from Accessible Education Services will be available to talk with students individually after the event.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
4–7 p.m.
Target Shopping Event, 3790 Center Street NE, Salem
Welcome to a special shopping event for Willamette students. Free shuttle buses will depart from the Sparks parking lot starting at 3:45 p.m. and will run until 7 p.m.
Open to: First-Year Students, Transfer and International Students
Willamette University

Opening Days

Address
900 State Street
Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.
Phone
503-370-6463

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