Nicole Blanchard
Editor-in-Chief
Each year, Idaho State University hosts a variety of events designed to welcome returning students and help first-timers get their bearings. The events, hosted throughout the first week of classes and the few days preceding the beginning of fall semester, make up ISU’s Week of Welcome and New Student Orientation (NSO).
Incoming freshmen, transfer students and international students kicked off their ISU experience the week of Aug. 19 with orientation activities and events including a giant Slip’N’Slide on Bartz Field.
Freshmen were then invited to kick off the Week of Welcome Sunday, Aug. 25, by taking part in March Thru the Arch, an ISU tradition of parading through the historic Swanson Arch located on lower campus.
“It has made me meet new people and get out of my shell,” said freshman Andrew Turner of the week’s events.
“I feel like [the March] brings everyone together and gives campus more of a family feel,” he added.
Returning students were also encouraged to attend the March, and many shared Turner’s sentiment.
“It’s a nice start to the new school year,” said ISU Ambassador Jenna Larson at March Thru the Arch. “Since we’re all stressed out it’s nice to come out and get free food and have everybody be super excited for you.”
“It’s helping our new students realize just how spirited we are. We cheer them on and then hopefully they’ll keep cheering the school on and build school spirit,” added Larson.
Week of Welcome activities continued Monday, Aug. 26, with Welcome Back Orange & Black in Old Town Pocatello. Students were then encouraged to attend Back to School Fred Meyer Night for a chance to win even more prizes.
Tuesday, Aug. 27, offered the opportunity for students to mingle during the International Black Book Affair, and students had a chance to see what ISU’s Reed Gym has to offer at Rec Night.
Students were invited to a root beer kegger and ice blocking event at ISU’s annual Cold Butts and Beer, hosted at Bartz Field.
Dozens of ISU Clubs and Departments offered information, prizes and more during Wednesday’s Involvement Fair, hosted from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the quad.
Those who missed out on events earlier in the week will have a chance to unwind as the weekend approaches with the Student Activities Board’s Quad Party, held from 6 to 8 p.m. on lower campus.
Events will wrap up Friday with the End of Summer Pool Party at Ross Park at 4 p.m.
Students can enter to win cash prizes for their involvement by sharing Week of Welcome event photos on Facebook or Instagram and tagging the photos #be_involved.
