WSU Fall Fest 2019 | Photo by Soham Parikh | The Wright State Guardian
First Weekend is a three-day, in-person event for residential and commuter students jam packed with information, games, advice and more designed to acclimate new students to campus-life. Before attending First Weekend, there are several things students should know.
Dates and check in location
First Weekend takes place all over campus across three days from August 20-22. There are additional activities planned for Thursday, August 19 as well.
Check-in for commuters is Friday, August 20 near the Turning Points sculpture at the center of campus from 9 – 9:30 a.m.
There is a separate schedule for commuter students and residential students
Upon arriving for first weekend, it is important to keep in mind whether you are a commuter or residential student. Although both will receive relatively the same experience, residential students have additional activities and meetings on their schedule to help with move-in and other essentials for living on campus.
Another important difference deals with meal plans. Because residential students are required to purchase a meal plan for the school year, they are all set for first weekend. However, commuters may want to consider purchasing meal tickets before or at check in.
All non-residential students are required to register to attend First Weekend. If students do not register beforehand, they will be asked to register upon check-in.
Registering for First Weekend beforehand will allow staff members to prepare for each student. Each student will receive a first Weekend T-shirt, name tag, schedule, campus map, and any purchased meal tickets at check in.
To purchase meal tickets and register, click here >>
Parking
Suggested parking lots are 6, 7, 10, or 4 near the Community Center.
Commuter students do not need parking passes specifically for first weekend, but it is recommended students do not wait to order parking passes, which are necessary after the start of the fall semester.
Student parking permit fees are $48. Permits will be valid through December 31, 2021. To purchase a parking permit, click here >>
Corq app and Engage resources
Engage is a website used for student involvement at Wright State. It displays all events happening on campus including organization meetings, club fairs, service projects and more. Engage is where students can start to learn about how to get involved on campus. Corq is a downloadable app displaying all events happening on campus. Corq and Engage will be updated in real time during First Weekend with any changes.
Students can visit wright.edu/engage and log on using their W number by clicking on the blue “Sign In” button.
Read More about Corq and Engage here >>
Covid expectations
WSU is currently under an indoor mask mandate. Masks are required to be worn inside campus buildings at all times, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are not required outdoors.
WSU is asking First Weekend attendees to complete a short health assessment before attending and to stay home if any of these are applicable:
- You have a temperature over 100.4° F
- You have cold or flu symptoms
- You have other COVID-19 symptoms as defined by the CDC
- Anyone in your household has COVID-19 symptoms
Commuter Student Schedule
Thursday, August 19
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Games on North Lawn Feel free to hang out with your new peers on the North Lawn adjacent to the Student Union and Hamilton Hall. | North Lawn |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Enjoy dinner in the Student Union. Haven’t signed up for meal tickets? Pre-register for First Weekend today. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 6:30–9 p.m. | Take Off! You’re moved in; now it’s time for the fun! Kick-off your Wright State experience with fun activities and meet your fellow Raiders. | North Lawn |
| 9 p.m.–midnight | Party in the Woods Bust a move and jam out with the fraternity and sororities on the Woods basketball court. Get to know some upperclassmen before the big day tomorrow—First Friday! | Woods basketball court |
Friday, August 20—First Friday
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 9–9:30 a.m. | Commuter Check-In Check-in will be located at the Turning Points (B.A.R.T.) sculpture near University Hall. We recommend parking in lots 6, 7, 10, or 4 near the Community Center, if available. Commuter students must pre-register for First Weekend. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 10 a.m. | Kickoff Address and Opening Session University President Sue Edwards and Student Government President Jonathan Ciero officially kick off First Weekend. Make sure to wear your official First Weekend shirt for the group photo! | Outdoor Amphitheater |
| 10:30 a.m. | First Weekend Group Meetings Meet and hear from your First Weekend leader on what you can expect as our newest Raiders. We will cover important topics about your first semester, introduce you to Wright State traditions and expectations, and allow you to meet some of your peers. | North Lawn |
| 11:10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. | Raiders with Grit: What’s your WHY? It’s no secret: college can be tough. We are all here to help you increase your own personal resiliency, tenacity, and perseverance for success. We are all here to support you. | Student Union Conference Wing |
| 12:15–1:30 p.m. | Cook Out with President Sue Get your grub on and meet President Sue and various other campus faces. Don’t be afraid to say “Hi!” Haven’t signed up for meal tickets? Pre-register for First Weekend today. | Alumni Grove |
| 1:30–3:50 p.m., concurrent sessions | Sessions for Success Get acclimated with student services and activities. Attend various panels, seminars, and forums through this conference-style event. | Various campus locations |
| 1:30–2:00 p.m. | Commuter Students Presenters: Alaina Collins, Commuter Student Senator, Student Government Association Debbie Lamp, Advisor, Commuter Student Association | Medical Sciences 120 |
| 2:10–2:35 p.m. | How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct to learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, Director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 |
| Juggling Your Involvement You want to do it all because there is so much to do! Juggling classes, involvement, social time, and other commitments can be an issue. Find out ways to fit everything into your schedule. Presenter Courtney Laukitis, Program Manager, Organizations | Student Success Center 014 | |
| Helpful Tips for Transfer Students to Experience the Raider Way Explore ways to experience the Wright State community as a transfer student. This session will include tips on how to get involved on campus, how to complete your transfer process, and how to celebrate together as a transfer student, as well as tips from current Wright State students who transferred in just like you. Presented by Hideo Tsuchida, Director of Articulation, Transfer, and Institutional Partnerships Hanna Keller, Assistant Director, Transfer Recruitment Rachel Fulton Wright Path Program Manager | Student Success Center 007 | |
| Top 10 Tips for Academic Success Welcome to Wright State, Right School; Tips to start the Right Way! Strategy for successful on-boarding and supportive resources Presenters: Michelle Dixon, Student Success Coach Catherine Hernandez Hogan, Student Success Coach | Student Success Center 009 | |
| Make a Friend, Pick a Prize Join Student Advocacy for a fun-filled hangout that should be fun for introverts and extraverts alike. All participants get their choice of prize just for being there and giving the community a try. Hopefully, you’ll leave knowing someone you can walk with to your next activity. Presenter: Destinee Biesemeyer, Associate Director, Student Advocacy and Wellness | Medical Sciences 120 | |
| Culture and Identity Center Meet and Greet Come meet your Culture and Identity Center specialists and directors, learn more about their programs and events, and ask us all of your questions about inclusion and equity on Wright State’s campus. Presenters: Emily Yantis-Houser, Intercultural Specialist, LGBTQA Center Nicole Carter, Ph.D., Director Women’s Center Fermin Recarte, Intercultural Specialist, Latino Center Quatez Scott, Intercultural Specialist, Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center Kevin Huang, Intercultural Specialist, Asian and Native American Center | Oelman Hall 109 | |
| 2:45–3:15 p.m. | How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct to learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters: Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 |
| Student Leader Panel Do you have a burning question about student organizations and involvement? This is a perfect time to ask your questions! These students have it figured out! Presenters: Student Organization Leaders | Student Success Center 007 | |
| Campus Rec and Outdoor Programs 101 Fitness, hiking, and sports…oh my! Come and see how to get involved with Campus Rec. Presenters: Billy Willis, Program Director, Campus Recreation Center Erin Sherrets, Program Manager, Outdoor Recreation | Student Success Center 009 | |
| 3:20–3:50 p.m. | Have Fun but Stay Safe Wright State may seem like a big place to some and small to others. Presenters: Officer Hicks, Wright State Police Department Dispatcher Earl Thompson, Communications Dispatcher 1 | Student Success Center 007 |
| It’s all Greek to Me! What does it mean to be a member of a fraternity or sorority at Wright State? Interested in joining but don’t know how? Have questions? This is a perfect opportunity to learn more. Presenters: Members of College Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, and National Pan-hellenic Council | Student Success Center 014 | |
| How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct to learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters: Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 | |
| Building Your Success Strategy: First Steps Toward Graduating on Time College is a big step, and it can get away from you quicker than you might think. This session will discuss practical tips for managing the anxiety of college and getting a good start. Presenter: David Bringhurst, Director, Academic Support | Student Success Center 009 | |
| 4–6 p.m. | Do the U Get involved! There is always something to do at Wright State—now find a student club or organization (…or a few) to join! Connect, engage, and find your people at Do the U! | Student Union |
| 4–5 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week of classes. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Explore the newest dining options with this exclusive first look at the new Union Market. You’re certainly in for a treat! Haven’t signed up for meal tickets? Pre-register for First Weekend today. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 6–8 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 8 p.m.–midnight | Movie Night: “Without Remorse” An elite Navy SEAL goes on a path to avenge his wife’s murder only to find himself inside of a larger conspiracy. Enjoy this FREE movie and popcorn under the stars. | Village Pavillion (Rain: 109 OH) |
Saturday, August 21
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 10 a.m. | First Weekend Group Meetings Check-in with your First Weekend leader. | North Lawn |
| 10:30 a.m.–noon | Service Project Join us for an on-campus service project. | Student Union Atrium (091 SU) |
| Noon–1:30 p.m. | Lunch Enjoy a buffet-style lunch included in your meal plan. Haven’t signed up for meal tickets? Pre-register for First Weekend today. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| Noon–1:30 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 1:30–5 p.m. | Shopping in Beavercreek Pick up any last-minute items that you need, and explore Beavercreek. | RTA bus stop in front of the Student Union |
| 4 p.m. | Women’s Volleyball vs. Miami (OH) Exhibition | C.J. McLin Gymnasium |
| 5 p.m. | Men’s Soccer vs. Western Michigan Exhibition | Alumni Field |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Enjoy a buffet-style dinner included in your meal plan. Haven’t signed up for meal tickets? Pre-register for First Weekend today. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 7–8:30 p.m. | Joseph Tran: Magician and Comedian Enjoy a show in the Student Union Apollo Room, provided by the University Activities Board. | Apollo Room (160 SU) |
| 8:30 p.m. – midnight | Student Union After Dark Explore this carnival-style event all over the Student Union. Have fun with various clubs and organizations, Campus Recreation, and more. | Student Union |
Sunday, August 22
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Semester Meal Plans Become Active Utilize your semester meal plan at your own leisure at The Hangar, located in Allyn Hall. Don’t have a meal plan? Purchase a Commuter Meal Plan. | The Hangar |
| 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Shopping in Beavercreek Pick up any last-minute items that you need, and explore Beavercreek. | RTA bus stop in front of the Student Union |
| Noon–5 p.m. | Mud Volleyball Participate in mud volleyball and prepare to get dirty. Compete against your fellow Raiders for #BraggingWrights. Register or join a team on imleagues.com. #ForTheShirt | Campus Recreation Park |
| 2 p.m.–midnight | Raider Mart is Open Peruse Raider Mart, Wright State’s campus convenience store and mini grocery, located in the Honors Community. | Raider Mart |
| 5–7 p.m. | Homestyle Dinner Enjoy a homestyle dinner. Don’t have a meal plan? Purchase a Commuter Meal Plan. | The Hangar |
Residential Student Schedule
Wednesday, August 18
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 9 a.m.–3 p.m., by appointment | Operation Move-In If you are living on campus, this is the day you will moving into your rooms early so you can participate in the educational and social programs of First Weekend. Learn more about Operation Move-In. | Residence halls and various campus locations |
| 6:30 p.m. | Residence Life and Housing Welcome Night Hang out and meet your residence hall staff with volleyball, basketball, yard games, card and board games, and more! | The Woods residential community |
Thursday, August 19
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 9 a.m.–3 p.m., by appointment | Operation Move-In If you are living on campus, this is the day you will moving into your rooms early so you can participate in the educational and social programs of First Weekend. Learn more about Operation Move-In. | Residence halls and various campus locations |
| 11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Games on North Lawn Already moved in? Feel free to hang out with your new peers on the North Lawn adjacent to the Student Union and Hamilton Hall. | North Lawn |
| Noon–1:30 p.m. | Lunch Enjoy lunch included with your meal plan. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 4–5 p.m. | Resident Assistant (RA) Meetings Meet your RA at your floor lounge. You will also receive your official First Weekend 2021 T-shirt to wear for First Friday. | Residence halls–floor lounges look for postings |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Enjoy dinner included in your meal plan. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 6:30–9 p.m. | Take Off! You’re moved in; now it’s time for the fun! Kick off your Wright State experience with fun activities and meet your fellow Raiders. | North Lawn |
| 9 p.m.–midnight | Party in the Woods Bust a move and jam out with the fraternity and sororities on the Woods basketball court. Get to know some upperclassmen before the big day tomorrow—First Friday! | Woods basketball court |
Friday, August 20—First Friday
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 9 a.m. | Resident Assistant (RA) Meetings Meet with your RA before heading over for the First Weekend Kickoff! | Residence halls–floor lounges |
| 10 a.m. | Kickoff Address and Opening Session University President Sue Edwards and Student Government President Jonathan Ciero officially kick off First Weekend. Make sure to wear your official First Weekend shirt for the group photo! | Outdoor Amphitheater |
| 10:30 a.m. | First Weekend Group Meetings Meet and hear from your First Weekend leader on what you can expect as our newest Raiders. We will cover important topics about your first semester, introduce you to Wright State traditions and expectations, and allow you to meet some of your peers. | North Lawn |
| 11:10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. | Raiders with Grit: What’s your WHY? It’s no secret: college can be tough. We are all here to help you increase your own personal resiliency, tenacity, and perseverance for success. We are all here to support you. | Student Union Conference Wing |
| 12:15–1:30 p.m. | Cook Out with President Sue Get your grub on and meet President Sue and various other campus faces. Don’t be afraid to say “Hi!” | Alumni Grove |
| 1:30–3:50 p.m., concurrent sessions | Sessions for Success Get acclimated with student services and activities. Attend various panels, seminars, and forums through this conference-style event. | Various campus locations |
| 1:30–2:00 p.m. | Residential Session Presenters: Jennifer Attenweiler, Associate Director, Residence Life and Housing Lisa Eizenga, Assistant Director, Residence Life and Housing | Oelman Hall 109 |
| 2:10–2:35 p.m. | How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct to learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, Director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 |
| Juggling Your Involvement You want to do it all because there is so much to do! Juggling classes, involvement, social time, and other commitments can be an issue. Find out ways to fit everything into your schedule. Presenter Courtney Laukitis, Program Manager, Student Organizations | Student Success Center 014 | |
| Helpful Tips for Transfer Students to Experience the Raider Way Explore ways to experience the Wright State community as a transfer student. This session will include tips on how to get involved on campus, how to complete your transfer process, and how to celebrate together as a transfer student, as well as tips from current Wright State students who transferred in just like you. Presenters: Hideo Tsuchida, Director of Articulation, Transfer, and Institutional Partnerships Hanna Keller, Assistant Director, Transfer Recruitment Rachel Fulton, Wright Path Program Manager | Student Success Center 007 | |
| Top 10 Tips for Academic Success Welcome to Wright State, Right School; Tips to start the Right Way! Strategy for successful on-boarding and supportive resources Presenters: Michelle Dixon, Student Success Coach Catherine Hernandez Hogan, Student Success Coach | Student Success Center 009 | |
| Make a Friend, Pick a Prize Join Student Advocacy for a fun-filled hangout that should be fun for introverts and extraverts alike. All participants get their choice of prize just for being there and giving the community a try. Hopefully, you’ll leave knowing someone you can walk with to your next activity. Presenter: Destinee Biesemeyer, Associate Director, Student Advocacy & Wellness | Medical Sciences 120 | |
| Culture and Identity Center Meet and Greet Come meet your Culture and Identity Center specialists and directors, learn more about their programs and events, and ask us all of your questions about inclusion and equity on Wright State’s campus. Presenters: Emily Yantis-Houser, Intercultural Specialist, LGBTQA Center Nicole Carter, Ph.D., Director, Women’s Center Fermin Recarte, Intercultural Specialist, Latino Center Quatez Scott, Intercultural Specialist, Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center Kevin Huang, Intercultural Specialist, Asian and Native American Center | Oelman Hall 109 | |
| 2:45–3:15 p.m. | How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct to learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters: Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 |
| Student Leader Panel Do you have a burning question about student organizations and involvement? This is a perfect time to ask your questions! These students have it figured out! Presenters: Student Organization Leaders | Student Success Center 007 | |
| Campus Rec and Outdoor Programs 101 Fitness, hiking, and sports…oh my! Come and see how to get involved with Campus Rec. Presenters: Billy Willis, Program Director, Campus Recreation Erin Sherrets, Program Manager, Outdoor Recreation | Student Success Center 009 | |
| 3:20–3:50 p.m. | Have Fun but Stay Safe Wright State may seem like a big place to some and small to others. Presenters: Officer Hicks, Wright State Police Department Dispatcher Earl Thompson, Communications Dispatcher 1 | Student Success Center 007 |
| It’s all Greek to Me! What does it mean to be a member of a fraternity or sorority at Wright State? Interested in joining but don’t know how? Have questions? This is a perfect opportunity to learn more. Presenters: Members of College Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, and National Pan-hellenic Council | Student Success Center 014 | |
| How NOT to Screw Up Your Freshman Year One mistake can ruin it all! Come see Student Legal Services and Community Standards and Student Conduct learn how to protect yourself on and off-campus against the pitfalls that often happen to first-year college students. Presenters: Stephanie M. Allen, Attorney at Law Christopher Hogan, director Community Standards and Student Conduct | Student Success Center 207 | |
| Building Your Success Strategy: First Steps Toward Graduating on Time College is a big step, and it can get away from you quicker than you might think. This session will discuss practical tips for managing the anxiety of college and getting a good start. Presenter: David Bringhurst, Director, Academic Support | Student Success Center 009 | |
| 4–6 p.m. | Do the U Get involved! There is always something to do at Wright State—now find a student club or organization (…or a few) to join! Connect, engage, and find your people at Do the U! | Student Union |
| 4–5 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week of classes. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Explore the newest dining options with this exclusive first look at the new Union Market. You’re certainly in for a treat! | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 6–8 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 8 p.m.–midnight | Movie Night: “Without Remorse” An elite Navy SEAL goes on a path to avenge his wife’s murder only to find himself inside of a larger conspiracy. Enjoy this FREE movie and popcorn under the stars. | Village Pavillion (Rain: 109 OH) |
Saturday, August 21
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 10 a.m. | First Weekend Group Meetings Check-in with your First Weekend leader. | North Lawn |
| 10:30 a.m.–noon | Service Project Join us for an on-campus service project. | Student Union Atrium (091 SU) |
| Noon–1:30 p.m. | Lunch Enjoy a buffet-style lunch included in your meal plan. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| Noon–1:30 p.m. | Classroom Wayfinding Choose from a student-led tour of classrooms, so you know exactly to go during your first week. | Turning Points (AKA B.A.R.T.) |
| 1:30–5 p.m. | Shopping in Beavercreek Pick up any last-minute items that you need, and explore Beavercreek. | RTA bus stop in front of the Student Union |
| 4 p.m. | Women’s Volleyball vs. Miami (OH) Exhibition | C.J. McLin Gymnasium |
| 5 p.m. | Men’s Soccer vs. Western Michigan Exhibition | Alumni Field |
| 5–7 p.m. | Dinner Enjoy a buffet-style dinner included in your meal plan. | Union Market (111 SU) |
| 7–8:30 p.m. | Joseph Tran: Magician and Comedian Enjoy a show in the Student Union Apollo Room, provided by the University Activities Board. | Apollo Room (160 SU) |
| 8:30 p.m.–midnight | Student Union After Dark Explore this carnival-style event all over the Student Union. Have fun with various clubs and organizations, Campus Recreation, and more. | Student Union |
Sunday, August 22
| Time of Activity | Activity | Location of Activity |
| 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Semester Meal Plans Become Active Utilize your semester meal plan at your own leisure at The Hangar, located in Allyn Hall. | The Hangar |
| 11:00 a.m.–5 p.m. | Shopping in Beavercreek Pick up any last-minute items that you need, and explore Beavercreek. | RTA bus stop in front of the Student Union |
| Noon–5 p.m. | Mud Volleyball Participate in mud volleyball and prepare to get dirty. Compete against your fellow Raiders for #BraggingWrights. Register or join a team on imleagues.com. #ForTheShirt | Campus Recreation Park |
| 2 p.m.–midnight | Raider Mart is Open Peruse Raider Mart, Wright State’s campus convenience store and mini grocery, located in the Honors Community. | Raider Mart |
| 5–7 p.m. | Homestyle Dinner Enjoy a homestyle dinner. | The Hangar |
| 7:30 p.m. | Hall Meetings Meet with your RA and wrap up your First Weekend. Next step: classes tomorrow! | Residence halls–floor lounges |
