students participating in weeks of welcome activitiesAt Ball State, we know how important it is for your transition to include a variety of experiences that help you connect to the people, places, and traditions that will help you be successful in your first year and beyond. We have moved beyond a single week of activities to Weeks of Welcome because there are so many experiences we want to introduce you to, it will take a lot more than one week.

We encourage all students new to campus to attend these optional (unless otherwise noted) events to make the most of their first six weeks on campus. These events will provide the following...

  • Cardinal Spirit–generating school spirit for BSU Athletics and Student Organizations
  • Campus Geography–familiarizing students with campus locations
  • Academic Focus/Motivation–gearing up for college academic success
  • Campus Culture–acclimating students to independent life, inclusive environments, and BSU culture and traditions
  • Campus Resources–introducing important student services which promote safety, health, and belonging
  • Social–students meeting students; having FUN!

You can find a list of event dates and descriptions for Weeks of Welcome below. You can also use our campus map to find each event on campus.

Welcome Week pictures

Weeks of Welcome Events

August 11 – September 21, 2025

Not only do we have events going on during the first week of the semester, but we also have events through September! Check out our campus event schedule below.

If you need an accommodation to participate in any of these events, please contact Disability Services or the event hosts directly.

Week 1
Monday, August 11- Sunday, August 17

UTS Tech Center Extended Hours — UTS Tech Center, Bracken Library, Rm 101
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS | 8am-7pm
The UTS Tech Center will have Extended Hours Aug. 13-14, 8am - 7pm and Aug. 16-17, 12pm – 5pm. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Nick Baumgartner for accommodations for this event.   

BSU Technology Store Extended Hours 
— BSU Technology Store, Bracken Library, Rm 103
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS | 8am-7pm
The BSU Tech Store will have Extended Hours. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Jonah Haley for accommodations for this event.   

Welcome to the Neighborhoods — Beyerl Hall Firepit Area: Kona Ice; Near the pond by Studebaker West: Made in Muncie BSU Coaster Painting, DeHority Hall Beach: Airbrush Tattoos
Hosted by Housing and Residence Life | 7pm-9pm
Welcome to the Neighborhoods! Meet more people who live on campus this year. Eat some Kona Ice in North Neighborhood near the Beyerl Hall firepit. Make a Ball State themed drink coaster with Made in Muncie Pottery by the pond near Studebaker West. Get an airbrush tattoo outside DeHority Hall in DeHo Beach. Visit one or all neighborhoods as you kick start your on-campus journey. Contact Julie Ridgeway for accommodations for this event.   

UTS Tech Center Extended Hours — UTS Tech Center, Bracken Library, Rm 101
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS | 8am-7pm
The UTS Tech Center will have Extended Hours Aug. 13-14, 8am - 7pm and Aug. 16-17, 12pm – 5pm. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Nick Baumgartner for accommodations for this event.   

BSU Technology Store Extended Hours 
— BSU Technology Store, Bracken Library, Rm 103
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS | 8am-7pm
The BSU Tech Store will have Extended Hours. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Jonah Haley for accommodations for this event.  

Honors College Freshman Convocation — Emens Auditorium
Hosted by the Honors College | 4pm-5pm
Students will learn about the Honors College, what it has to offer and the opportunities, a small performance, and the annual class photo at the end. Contact Amanda Huynh or Kristin Ramsey for accommodations for this event.   

First Floor Meeting — Various Locations in the Residence Halls (Ask your RA)
Hosted by the Housing and Residence Life | 7:30pm-8:30pm
Welcome to the Residence Halls! It is very important to join us for our very first floor meeting where you'll get a chance to learn important hall policies, meet your fellow residents, and get to know your RA. It's a great way to start the year off right, ask questions, and build community. We can't wait to see you there! Contact Julie Ridgeway for accommodations for this event.   

Chirp! Chirp! (Tradition Event) — Worthen Arena. Hosted by Ball State Athletics | 9pm-10pm
Join Director of Athletics, Jeff Mitchell, for an introduction to Ball State Athletics! Meet the teams, learn the fight song, and see first-hand what it’s like to be a Ball State Cardinal! Contact Olivia Vecchiolli for accommodations for this event. 

 

Coffee with the Transfer Center—Student Center Starbucks. Hosted by the Office of Admissions: Transfer Center | 10am-11am
Attention, transfer students! Enjoy a complimentary drink courtesy of the Transfer Center at the Student Center Starbucks before embarking on a delightful day full of activities, where we joyfully celebrate our incoming students. Seize this golden chance to forge connections, dive into the vibrant offerings of Ball State, and make the most out of your university experience! Contact Bailey Ellis for accommodations for this event. 

Commuter Success Kick-Off—University Green. Hosted by the University College | 1pm-4pm
Commuters - Stop by anytime between 1-4 pm to meet our staff, learn about our resources, play BSU bingo, and pick up your free commuter welcome packet. Look for the tents on University Green near Frog Baby and play games for a chance to win a free hammock! Contact Laura Pittman for accommodations for this event. 

Student Organization Activity Fair— Brown Family Amphitheater. Hosted by The Office of Student Life | 3pm-5pm
Looking to get involved on campus? The Activity Fair is your one-stop shop to explore some of our 350+ student organizations, campus resources, and leadership opportunities at Ball State! Whether you're into academic clubs, social groups, service organizations, or just looking to find your people, this event is designed to help you make connections and start your Cardinal journey strong. Stop by to meet student leaders, grab some free giveaways, and find the organizations that match your interests. Don’t miss your chance to Be Connected and make the most of your Ball State experience! Contact Olivia Vecchiolli for accommodations for this event. 

Rock the Halls— Noyer Lawn, Beyerl Patio/Firepit, and the DeHority Beach. Hosted by The Residence Hall Association | 8pm-10pm
Activities will be on the Noyer Lawn, at the Firepit outside of Beyerl Residence Hall, and at DeHority Beach. RHA hosts this celebratory event to kick off the school year with an obstacle course, bounce houses, volleyball, spikeball, and yard games. There will also be snacks, ice cream, popcorn, music, and more! This event is open to all students. Contact Liz Hartley for accommodations for this event. 

UTS Tech Center Extended Hours — UTS Tech Center, Bracken Library, Rm 101
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS |12pm-5pm
The UTS Tech Center will have Extended Hours Aug. 13-14, 8am - 7pm and Aug. 16-17, 12pm – 5pm. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Nick Baumgartner for accommodations for this event.   

Freshman Convocation (Tradition Event) — Emens Auditorium. Hosted by The Office of the President | 2pm-4pm
Join us at Emen's Auditorium for the Freshman Convocation is the University’s official first Academic event for new students at Ball State. President Geoffrey S. Mearns and Provost Anand Marri will formally welcome new students to campus, speak about the exciting year ahead, and recognize the enduring values of our University – excellence, integrity, social responsibility, respect and gratitude – as symbolized by our iconic Beneficence. Meet your future faculty and peers or explore new academic opportunities. Contact Olivia Vecchiolli for accommodations for this event. 

Cardinal Clash—Brown Family Amphitheater. Hosted by the Office of Student Life: Spirit and Traditions   | 3pm-6:30pm
Cardinal Clash: The Ultimate Freshman Showdown is Ball State's high-energy kickoff event designed for incoming freshmen! This four-hour battle of skill, strategy, and spirit pits students against each other in thrilling challenges, oversized games, and inflatable competitions. From adrenaline-pumping obstacle courses to head-to-head relay races, every moment is packed with excitement. Refuel between rounds with delicious walking tacos, the perfect grab-and-go snack to keep you energized. Whether you're competing for bragging rights or cheering on your new classmates, Cardinal Clash is the ultimate way to dive into campus life, make friends, and show off your Cardinal pride! Contact Anna Miller for accommodations for this event. 

UTS Tech Center Extended Hours — UTS Tech Center, Bracken Library, Rm 101
Hosted by the Information Technology - UTS | 12pm-5pm
The UTS Tech Center will have Extended Hours Aug. 13-14, 8am - 7pm and Aug. 16-17, 12pm – 5pm. Come Drop by!  Contact Marchal Hudson or Nick Baumgartner for accommodations for this event.   

Take Flight: Foundations to Thrive at Ball State (Tradition Event)— Emens Auditorium. Hosted by Health Promotion and Advocacy | 2pm-4pm
Join us on Sunday to learn more about student wellness opportunities and safety procedures at Ball State University. Mandatory for all incoming students. Contact Olivia Vecchiolli for accommodations for this event. 

MONDAY, August 18 - SUNDAY, August 24
Scramble Snacks— Scramble Light - North Quad. Hosted by the Office of Student Life: Spirit and Traditions | 11am-2pm
Free Hotdogs on your way to class!  Contact Anna Miller for accommodations for this event. 

First Day of Class Photos — Various Locations in the Residence Halls
Hosted by Housing and Residence Life| Various Times
Start out the school year with a First Day of Class photo! Meet your hall staff in your building to take a photo with the first day of classes memory board! Ask your RA for the time and location of your hall's photo opportunity. Contact Julie Ridgeway for accommodations for this event. 

General Recital Hour  Sursa Performance Hall
Hosted by the School of Music | 1pm-2pm
This is all undergraduate music students together in one room, so it's pretty exciting. You'll also meet the leadership of your degree area and other students pursuing your degree. Contact The School of Music for accommodations for this event.   

 

Fraternity & Sorority Life Tabling — Scramble Light. Hosted by The Office of Student Life: Fraternity and Sorority Life | 11am-2pm
Tabling opportunity to learn more about the Fraternity and Sorority Life Community at Ball State University. Contact Zachariah Brumfield for accommodations for this event. 

 

Fraternity & Sorority Life 101— Cardinal Hall B. Hosted by The Office of Student Life: Fraternity and Sorority Life | 5pm-6pm
Come learn more about the different expectations, organizations and avenues of joining a Ball State social Fraternity or Sorority! Contact Zachariah Brumfield for accommodations for this event. 

UC Success Fair—North Quad Lawn. Hosted by the University College | 11am-2pm 
Join us for the Success Fair hosted by University College on August 20 from 11 am - 2 pm in the Quad (lawn in front of North Quad). Connect with academic advisors, student success coaches, Learning Center staff, Student Athlete Support Services, the First-Year Experience program, and the Commuter Success Program. Play yard games. Learn about resources. And more! Contact Laura Pittman for accommodations for this event. 

Meet the Greeks— University Green. Hosted by The Office of Student Life: Fraternity and Sorority Life | 4pm-6pm
At this outdoors, casual event, students have the opportunity to interact with all of the available chapters at Ball State University. Contact Zachariah Brumfield for accommodations for this event. 

Grocery Bingo—Pruis Hall. Hosted by the Office of Student Life: Spirit and Traditions | 8pm-10:30pm
Grocery Bingo is a fun and engaging event where Ball State students play bingo to win free groceries. Designed to support students with essential food items, the event fosters community while offering exciting prize opportunities. Contact Anna Miller for accommodations for this event. 

Open Mic Night—Atrium Patio. Hosted by the Office of Student Life: Spirit and Traditions | 8pm-10pm
Kick off the semester with Open Mic Night. Whether you're a singer, poet, comedian, or just enjoy live performances, this is your chance to take the stage or support your fellow Cardinals. Sign up to perform or simply enjoy an evening of student talent and creativity. Contact Anna Miller for accommodations for this event. 


SOM Picnic and Activity Fair — on the green between MIB and McKinley Parking Structure
Hosted by School of Music | 1pm-3pm
This will be a chance to find out about all the various clubs and organizations in the SOM, hang out, eat tasty food, and have a relaxing time getting to know other musicians. Contact the School of Music for accommodations for this event.   

Cardinal Street Fest—All over campus. Hosted by the Office of Student Life: Spirit and Traditions | 2pm-6pm
Cardinal Street Fest is the ultimate way to kick off the year with an action-packed afternoon full of high-energy entertainment, live performances, and nonstop fun! From thrilling attractions to incredible street entertainers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Cool off, challenge your friends, and soak in the festival vibes with music, games, and interactive experiences all around. Whether you’re here to compete, create, or just take it all in, Cardinal Street Fest is where campus comes alive, don’t miss out on the excitement! Contact Anna Miller for accommodations for this event.

$2 Tour of the Village — The Village: University Ave - Calvert to Dill Street
Hosted by Office of Community Engagement | 3pm-7pm
Join us for the 6th annual $2 Tour of the Village! We'll be shutting down University Ave. from Calvert to Dicks St. to host a street festival that features live bands,  dog prince/princess contest, pepper eating contest, cake walk, mechanical bull, vendors, dunk tank, Guardian Brewing, $2 samples from participating Village businesses, prizes, etc. You won't want to miss this year's event! Contact Krista Flynn for accommodations for this event.   

MONDAY, August 25 - SUNDAY, August 31

Fraternity & Sorority Life 101— Cardinal Hall B. Hosted by The Office of Student Life: Fraternity and Sorority Life | 5pm-6pm
Come learn more about the different expectations, organizations and avenues of joining a Ball State social Fraternity or Sorority! Contact Zachariah Brumfield for accommodations for this event. 

Commuter Success Welcome Week— Atrium (AJ). Hosted by the University College | 11am-2pm
Stop by the Atrium (right outside of the bookstore) at your convenience on Wednesday or Thursday between 11 am and 2 pm to connect with our Commuter Success team. Pick up a commuter welcome kit (FREE STUFF). Learn about resources specifically for commuters. Hear about all of our events and activities for the Fall Semester! Contact Laura Pittman for accommodations for this event. 

 

Commuter Success Welcome Week— Atrium (AJ). Hosted by the University College | 11am-2pm
Stop by the Atrium (right outside of the bookstore) at your convenience on Wednesday or Thursday between 11 am and 2 pm to connect with our Commuter Success team. Pick up a commuter welcome kit (FREE STUFF). Learn about resources specifically for commuters. Hear about all of our events and activities for the Fall Semester! Contact Laura Pittman for accommodations for this event. 
MONDAY, September 1 - SUNDAY, September 7

Tootsie Tuesday— Learning Center, North Quad (NQ) 350. Hosted by the University College | 10am-8pm

It's Tootsie Tuesday! Stop by the Learning Center in NQ 350 at your convenience to pick up free tootsie rolls and learn about our services and resources. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event. 

Whatchamacallit Wednesday— Learning Center, North Quad (NQ) 350. Hosted by the University College | 10am-8pm

It's Whatchamacallit Wednesday! Stop by the Learning Center in NQ 350 at your convenience to pick up a free Whatchamacallit candy bar and learn about our services and resources. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event. 

Meet the Learning Center— Atrium (AJ). Hosted by the University College | 12pm-5pm
The Learning Center will be outside of the bookstore in the Atrium on September 3 and 4 between noon and 5 p.m. Stop by to learn how you can connect with all that the Learning Center offers. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event. 

Thirsty Thursday— Learning Center, North Quad (NQ) 350. Hosted by the University College | 10am-8pm

It's Thirsty Thursday in the Learning Center!  Stop by at your convenience to pick up a free soda or water and learn about resources, programs, and services available to all students in the Learning Center in NQ 350. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event. 

Meet the Learning Center— Atrium (AJ). Hosted by the University College | 12pm-5pm
The Learning Center will be outside of the bookstore in the Atrium on September 3 and 4 between noon and 5 p.m. Stop by to learn how you can connect with all that the Learning Center offers. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event. 

Fritos Friday— Learning Center, North Quad (NQ) 350. Hosted by the University College
It's Fritos Friday in the Learning Center!  Stop by at your convenience (10 am - 2 pm) to pick up fritos (or another snack!) and learn about our programs, resources, and services available to all students in the Learning Center in NQ 350. Contact Jenny Haley for accommodations for this event.

Monday, September 8 - SUNDAY, September 14

Catch A Coach— Scramble Light. Hosted by the University College | 11am-1pm
Stop by and "catch" a Student Success Coach at the Scramble Light on September 8 anytime between 11 am and 1 pm. Learn what we do. Pick up some giveaways. And connect with a coach. Contact Char Hawkins for accommodations for this event. 

Student Success Center Open House— North Quad (NQ) 339 -- Student Success Center. Hosted by the University College | 11am-1pm
Meet our success coaches and first-year advisors in their space in the Center for Student Success in North Quad 339. Learn about the resources available, check-in process, and how coaching and advising can benefit you as a student at Ball State. This is a come-and-go event, so feel free to stop by at your convenience. Contact Char Hawkins for accommodations for this event. 

 

 

 


Ball State University Student Health Fair— Jo Ann Gora Student Recreation and Wellness Center Five Court Gymnasium. Hosted by the University College | 11am-3pm

This event will provide an incredible opportunity for Ball State students, faculty, and staff to learn about the Nine Dimensions of Wellness and explore the variety of health and wellness resources available both on campus and in the surrounding community. Contact Maddie Campbell for accommodations for this event. 

 

Coaches Carnival— University Green. Hosted by the University College | 11am-2pm
Join our student success coaches for carnival coaching games, carnival food, candy, resources, prizes, and more! Stop by at your convenience anytime between 11 am and 2 pm. We will have red awnings on University Green. Contact Char Hawkins for accommodations for this event. 

Monday September 14-Sunday September 21

Games on the Green— University Green. Hosted by the University College | 1pm-4pm
Join our Student Athlete Support Services office for Games on the Green on University Green! Contact Lara Hillenberg for accommodations for this event.