Weeks of Welcome at the George Washington University provides opportunities for students to connect, build relationships, learn about resources, and build a community at GW as they start a new semester. Welcome events showcase the many resources GW has to offer for academic success and student support, opportunities for involvement, and more.
Signature Events
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First Night x Org Fair
The official kick-off to Weeks of Welcome, this unforgettable evening brings together all GW undergraduate students back to campus for the first time. Find your place in our vibrant community of 350+ student organizations, enjoy a wide array of attractions, giveaways, free food, and so much more.
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MSSC Block Party
The Multicultural Student Services Center (MSSC) invites you to the annual MSSC Block Party, a community-wide gathering to celebrate the start of a new academic year. More than 120 multicultural and ally student organizations join us for information sharing, community building, music, culture, dancing, and fun.
Schedule of Events
We are still working on the schedule for this fall, so be sure to check back, and follow @StudentLifeatGW on Instagram and TikTok for the latest event updates and to get connected to the GW community right now.
Kick-Off
Mount Vernon Campus: Ice Cream Social | 8/21, 6:30 PM | Mount Vernon Quad You've moved in, now it's time to relax and get to know your fellow MVC residents! Enjoy ice cream on the Quad!
Shabbat Zero | 8/21, 6 PM | GW Hillel, 2300 H St NW Join GW Hillel for Shabbat Services & Dinner!
Night at the Museum | 8/21, 9 PM | Smithsonian National Museum of American History Ever wanted an iconic DC museum all to yourself? We’re closing down the Smithsonian National Museum of American History exclusively for the GW Class of 2030! Forget quiet hallways and guided tours- we’re turning the museum into your private playground. Step inside after-hours for an unforgettable night featuring: A DJ, Activities, freebies and lots of memories!
2026 Convocation & Welcome Day of Service | 8/22, 10:30 AM | Charles E. Smith Center We can’t wait to see you when the Class of 2030 and other incoming students will come together for an #OnlyAtGW tradition!
At Convocation, President Granberg and other university leaders will officially welcome you to your academic, residential, and civic life at GW. As Convocation ends, you will travel with the people in your residence hall to one of many DC schools or community organizations to participate in a community-building service project as part of the 18th annual Welcome Day of Service. This is an excellent opportunity to bond with your new neighbors in your residence hall and see more of DC while getting to know the community here. We will provide everyone with lunch and transportation - along with a free T-shirt! Check out our webpage for answers to FAQ and follow our Instagram @gw.serves. You’ll receive more information about logistics and your site assignment via email in August.
