Rawkin’ Welcome Weeks is a great opportunity for students to continue the transition to college life at UNCG and find out what it means to be a Spartan.

All events are designed to help you get acclimated to campus by learning about academic support resources, campus programs and services, and most importantly, a chance to meet friends and make new Spartan connections.

2026 Schedule

August 14 – September 4

The full schedule will be shared closer to August 2026. In the meantime, you can review our 2025 schedule to get an idea of this year’s events.


2025 DAY-TO-DAY SCHEDULE

Friday, August 15

First Friday @ the G! in the Elliott University Center (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Join us for 1st Friday @ the G on August 15th! Join UNCG campus departments throughout the EUC as they host various activities such as vision boards, bracelet making, tote bags, and so much more. Stop by the Cone Ballroom for a Spartan game night! There will be retro arcade games, a photo booth, life size board games and other activities!

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Saturday, August 16

RecFest in the Kaplan Center (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

“Ready to party, Spartan-style? RecFest 2025 is taking over the Kaplan Center on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 6–10 PM with crate stacking, esports tournament, high-energy fitness classes, court sports, and a pool party you won’t want to miss! We’re raffling off big prizes like Airpods and Owala bottles, giving the first 400 students a limited-edition RecFest T-shirt, and serving FREE pizza!
Just here for a workout? No worries—the Kaplan Center will be open for UNCG students during the event! Visit recwell.uncg.edu/recfest25 for more details!”

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Sunday, August 17

Live @ the G! in the EUC Auditorium (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Join us as we bring hypnotist Chris Jones to UNCG! Be prepared to laugh and be amazed as your peers (or maybe you) get hypnotized for an evening of fun! Space is limited!

UNCG Women’s Soccer vs. UNCW in the UNCG Soccer Stadium (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Women’s Soccer team as they take on UNCW! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Monday, August 18

NAV1GATE (Begins at 8:00 AM)

It’s time to NAV1GATE your first year! Wear your navy UNCG t-shirt you received at SOAR. You’ll hear from the Chancellor, Deans and your faculty, as well as have fun with fellow new Spartans, the cheer and dance teams, pep band, and more! Be on the lookout for details in your UNCG email; this event is required for all new first year students.

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

SFO Drop-ins in Forney 101 (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

Tuesday, August 19

Fall Kick-Off on College Ave (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)

Join us on the first day of classes to learn more about active student groups, campus departments, and resources!

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Spartan SPEARS (7:45 AM – 1:45 PM)

Spartan SPEARS are student leaders, faculty, and staff on campus who help students find their way on the first two days of class each semester. SPEARS are always easy to spot in their lime green and can be found walking around campus, or at a stationary location.

SFO All Day Drop-ins in Forney 101 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

Wednesday, August 20

Videogaming and Esports Welcome Arcade! in the UNCG Esports Arena (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Interested in video gaming and esports? Come meet other students, faculty, and staff from our Videogaming and Esports Studies Program and UNCG Esports. Play games and earn prizes!

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Spartan SPEARS (7:45 AM – 1:45 PM)

Spartan SPEARS are student leaders, faculty, and staff on campus who help students find their way on the first two days of class each semester. SPEARS are always easy to spot in their lime green and can be found walking around campus, or at a stationary location.

Spartan Leadership Challenge: Bronze Kickoff in EUC Alexander (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Ready to grow? Join us for the Bronze Kickoff and accept the challenge today! This is your chance to learn about the Bronze Experience of the Spartan Leadership Challenge, gather the tools to get started, connect with new people, and discover how you can make a real impact on the UNCG community.

Canvas Confident Virtually (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn all the essential tools and tips to navigate Canvas with ease. Whether you’re new to Canvas or just looking to sharpen your skills, this session will ensure you’re fully prepared to manage your courses, assignments, and grades like a pro.

SFO All Day Drop-ins in Forney 101 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

Thursday, August 21

Get Ahead of the Game: Syllabus Reviews in the AAC (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Kickstart your semester with the Academic Achievement Center coaches to review your syllabi, identify questions to ask your instructors, and organize important dates in your planner or calendar.

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Plan Out Your Semester Virtually (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM)

Join us for a fun, hands-on session to explore the new fully digital YFY Success Planner! Learn how to personalize your planner to stay organized, set goals, and reflect on your growth throughout the year. We’ll walk through key features to help you plan effectively, prioritize what matters most, and create a tool that works for you. Bring your ideas and let’s get planning!

CoWAM Welcome Back in the Weatherspoon Art Museum (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM)

Welcome back! Join us for an evening of art, snacks, and button making while connecting with CoWAM, the Weatherspoon Art Museum student group.  

UNCG Men’s Soccer vs. Radford in the UNCG Soccer Stadium (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Men’s Soccer team as they kick of their season at home against Radford! Food Truck will be in attendance! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

SFO All Day Drop-ins in Forney 101 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

Videogaming and Esports Welcome Arcade! in the UNCG Esports Arena (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Interested in video gaming and esports? Come meet other students, faculty, and staff from our Videogaming and Esports Studies Program and UNCG Esports. Play games and earn prizes!

Friday, August 22

SFO All Day Drop-ins in Forney 101 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

EUC Poster Sale in the EUC Commons (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Stop by the EUC poster sale to pick out posters, tapestry, post cards and poster accessories. The Poster Invasion company has a wide selection to chose from including art posters, anime, sports, comic books and more.

Get Ahead of the Game: Syllabus Reviews in the AAC (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Kickstart your semester with the Academic Achievement Center coaches to review your syllabi, identify questions to ask your instructors, and organize important dates in your planner or calendar.

CPD Open House in the CPD (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Career & Professional Development is hosting an Open House to engage with the campus community and highlight the support we offer students. Faculty, staff, campus partners, and students are invited to drop in, meet the team, and explore how we can work together to empower student success and career readiness across campus. Light refreshments will be provided.

Passport to Possibility: UNCG Honors Welcome Event in the Alumni House (3:00 PM – 4:30 PM)

“Kick off your honors journey with a warm welcome from Lloyd International Honors College! This special event is your chance to meet the deans, advisors, and faculty who will support and guide you throughout your time in the Honors College. You’ll also connect with fellow students in both the Global and Disciplinary Honors programs, building community from day one.Learn what it means to be part of a globally focused, academically driven community, explore the opportunities ahead, and start shaping your unique honors experience!
Enjoy light snacks and refreshments while you mingle and don’t miss out on our exclusive Honors Welcome Giveaway, just for attendees!
We’re excited to welcome you and can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll do! “

Spartan Fountain Fest at the Fountain (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Join ACE for their first event of the year at the fountain! Enjoy a DJ with food trucks, giant games and inflatables, and customizable make and take items!

Saturday, August 23

Spartan Service Day in the EUC Cone Ballroom (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

Spartan Service Day gives UNCG students an opportunity to get off campus and be introduced to different parts of our community while working with our community partners to made a difference. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation to service sites is provided. Student registration is REQUIRED.

RHA & HRL Opening Event on the Quad Lawn (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Joining student leadership and HRL Get ready to step back in time and celebrate your favorite decade in style! Whether you’re rocking out in the ’80s, vibing with the ’90s or keeping it fresh with the 2000s — this is your chance to show us which decade with do it better with their favorite throwback look. We’ll have retro-inspired activities, fun games, and food and treats.

Sunday, August 24

Piney Palooza at Piney Lake (11:00 AM – 6 PM)

Kick off the school year at Piney Palooza on Sunday, August 24 11AM-6PM for swimming, a slip n slide, games, crafts, music, free food, and a chance to win big prizes. FREE transportation is provided every 30 minutes to & from Piney Lake picking up at the EUC circle. Parking spaces for personal vehicles are limited, the Piney Lake shuttle guarantees you access to this annual event! All you need to bring with you is your Spartan Card!

UNCG Men’s Soccer vs. VCU in UNCG Soccer Stadium (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Men’s Soccer team as they take on VCU! BOGO Hot Dogs, Enter To win Bookstore Prize Pack! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

Monday, August 25

SFO All Day Drop-ins in Forney 101 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

The Student’s First Office is offering all day drop-ins during the first week of classes both in-person and virtually. Please stop by if you have any questions or need help adjusting your schedule.

Silent Book Club in Jackson Library (1:00 PM – 4:30 PM)

Love reading? Want a break from the hustle and bustle of the first weeks of the semester? Join us for Silent Book Club! We’ll provide space, snacks, and books you can borrow (or feel free to bring your own). Read and relax with us! You’ll have the (optional) chance to share what you’re reading toward the end of the event, and we will give away prizes! Come and go as your schedule allows (you don’t have to be present to win).

Job Fair Jump Start in CPD (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Get ready to shine at the Job Fair with CPD! The Job Fair Jump Start is a drop-in event to help you feel confident and prepared for the upcoming Part-Time Job Fair. Stop by for a resume review, career coaching, a professional headshot, and more! Light refreshments will be provided.

Tuesday, August 26

Be Well. Stay Well in EUC Cone Ballroom (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Kickstart your Well-Being on campus this fall at the Be Well Stay Well event. Drop by for an engaging and dynamic event designed to help students at UNCG explore and enhance their overall well-being through the 8 dimensions of wellness. This event will feature resource booths, interactive activities, wellness assessments, and giveaways, with each dimension represented by a specific campus department. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Communicate Like a Spartan–Transfer Students in the Communication Lab (3211 MHRA) (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

Drop by the Communication Lab to find out more about how to succeed in all writing- and speaking-related projects during your time at UNCG! We’ll have snacks and resources to share, and we would love to talk with you about how you can do your best! This session is geared specifically toward transfer students, but all are welcome! 🙂

The Bucket List Challenge in EUC Kirkland (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM)

Kick off your first year with some fun UNCG trivia and a chance to build your own bucket list! Test your knowledge on campus history, traditions, and fun facts, then take time to think about what you want to do, see, and accomplish this year!

Wednesday, August 27

Part-Time Job Fair in EUC Cone Ballroom (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

This recruiting event is designed to connect students of all majors and class years to local community and on-campus employers who are looking to fill one or more open part-time positions.

Communicate Like a Spartan–MAC students in EUC in the Communication Lab (3211 MHRA) (2:30 PM – 3:30 PM)

Drop by the Communication Lab to find out more about how to do your best in all writing- and speaking-related projects during your time at UNCG! We’ll have snacks and resources to share, and we would love to talk with you about how you can do your best! This session is geared specifically toward students in MAC courses, but all are welcome! 🙂


Transfer Connections in EUC Kirkland (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Hey transfer Spartans! This event is all about helping you get to know campus, connect with fellow transfer students, and start thinking about what you want to experience during your time at UNCG. Come ready to learn a few fun facts, meet new friends, and begin building your own UNCG bucket list. Whether you’re brand new or just settling in, it’s a great chance to make friends and feel more at home.


OIE Open House Party (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Stop by the Minerva statue to kick off the school year with the Office of Intercultural Engagement at our Open House Party! Stop by for music, vibes, and a chance to learn more about the OIE and how to get involved.

ACE Interest Meeting and Glow Mode: Dodge and Dash in the EUC Cone Ballroom (6:00 PM – 9:30 PM)

Join ACE at 6 PM to learn how you can get involved in bringing impactful experiences and entertainment to your fellow UNCG students this year, and then head over to Cone Ballroom at 7:30 PM for Glow Mode: Dodge and Dash, a blacklight dodgeball experience with a DJ and giant movie screen!

Thursday, August 28

Spartan Leadership Challenge: Bronze Kickoff in EUC Alexander (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Ready to grow? Join us for the Bronze Kickoff and accept the challenge today! This is your chance to learn about the Bronze Experience of the Spartan Leadership Challenge, gather the tools to get started, connect with new people, and discover how you can make a real impact on the UNCG community.

Building Your Resilience in the EUC Dogwood; Hybrid (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Start your semester strong—no matter how it began. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to strengthen your resilience skills to stay focused, motivated, and adaptable throughout the academic year. We’ll dive into strategies like setting goals and embracing a growth mindset to help you bounce back from challenges and build grit as a student. Whether you’re recovering from a rocky start or just want to stay on track, this workshop will help you develop the mindset and habits to thrive.

Friday, August 29

UNCG Volleyball vs. Queens in Fleming Gymnasium (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Volleyball team as they kick of their season at home against Queens! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

UNCG Volleyball vs. Sacred Heart in Fleming Gymnasium (7:30 PM – 9:30 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Volleyball team as they kick of their season at home against Sacred Heart! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

Saturday, August 30

UNCG Volleyball vs. Gardner-Webb in Fleming Gymnasium (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Volleyball team as they take on Gardner-Webb! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

Sunday, August 31

UNCG Women’s Soccer vs. USF in UNCG Soccer Stadium (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Men’s Soccer team as they take on VCU! BOGO Hot Dogs, Enter To win Bookstore Prize Pack! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

Wednesday, September 3

Spartan Leadership Challenge: Bronze Kickoff in EUC Alexander (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Ready to grow? Join us for the Bronze Kickoff and accept the challenge today! This is your chance to learn about the Bronze Experience of the Spartan Leadership Challenge, gather the tools to get started, connect with new people, and discover how you can make a real impact on the UNCG community.

Study Together: Transfers in EUC Dail (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Transfer Spartans! Kick off your UNCG journey with a dynamic workshop designed just for you. Discover how building connections from day one can unlock academic success and lasting friendships. Learn how the Communication Lab and Math Help Center can support your goals, and meet fellow transfer students to start forming study groups and support networks.

EUC Blood Drive in the EUC (8:30 AM – 6:30 PM)

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Help us help others by donating blood. All presenting donors will receive a free EUC Blood Drive t-shirt.

Rawk Your Resume Virtually (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Ready to make your resume stand out? Join our Resume Workshop to learn the essentials of creating a polished, professional resume that captures your skills, experiences, and goals. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your existing resume, this workshop is tailored to help you craft a document that impresses employers and opens doors to new opportunities.

Thursday, September 4

Reading Rodeo in Jackson Library (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Explore lots of FREE book borrowing resources from public libraries, university libraries, and digital collections! Free pizza and prizes for the first 30 students!

Balancing the Basics in EUC Azalea (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Come and listen to a student panel provided by YFY. This is an opportunity for first year students to come ask any questions they have for current active students here at UNCG with different involvements around campus. Get real answers from experienced upperclassmen. Weather its about academics, navigating college, making friends, or managing you time, come get insight and personal stories to help you succeed at your first year!

Volunteer & Service Learning Fair in the EUC Cone Ballroom (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

Hey Spartans! Looking to get involved, build your skills, or give back? Swing by to discover awesome ways to connect with the community through service, internships, and advocacy. Whether you’re earning hours, volunteering with your org, or just want to make a difference, this is the place to start!

UNCG Women’s Soccer vs. HPU at the UNCG Soccer Stadium (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Come cheer on your UNCG Women’s Soccer team as they take on High Point! Reminder admission is FREE for everyone and parking is FREE in the Walker ave parking deck starting 1 hour prior to game time.

Friday, September 5

ACE Grow and Glow in the EUC Cone Ballroom (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Join ACE for this mid-day Grow and Glow event featuring DIY succulent planters where student can choose, plant and take home their very own potted plant. DIY planters are limited in number! Enter this relaxing, self-care focused space to unwind during your first weeks of the semester, meet friends, and reflect on your self and community care goals for the semester!


5th Annual Piney Palooza- The kickoff signature event at Piney Lake to start the academic year off!
RecFest 2025, hosted by the Department of Recreation & Wellness, is facility-wide event welcomes new and returning Spartans to the Kaplan Center for an unforgettable night of non-stop fun!
RecFest 2025, hosted by the Department of Recreation & Wellness, is facility-wide event welcomes new and returning Spartans to the Kaplan Center for an unforgettable night of non-stop fun!
1st Friday at the G kicks off UNCG's annual Rawkin' Welcome Week programming and the beginning of another academic year.
1st Friday at the G kicks off UNCG's annual Rawkin' Welcome Week programming and the beginning of another academic year.
Photos of students with chalkboards at Fall Kickoff.
1st Friday at the G kicks off UNCG's annual Rawkin' Welcome Week programming and the beginning of another academic year.
5th Annual Piney Palooza- The kickoff signature event at Piney Lake to start the academic year off!
Starting off the fall 2025 semester with Fall Kickoff
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